The People Behind The Business
A Sutton lad, born and bread – Ian Hazel
Ian is a forth generation of a family business based in Sutton Coldfield, and he has 2 daughters continuing the tradition into it’s fifth generation.
The company was formed in 1901 but was sold to a national conglomerate in 1987. Undeterred I an set up a new family business in 1987 in order to carry on the tradition he felt so strongly about.
Meeting Ian, he comes across as a level headed person, he has a soothing temperament, he’s tailored in both his manner and his dress, always respectful, and he also has a great sense of humour hiding just under the surface.
He says he was born to be in his profession, it is in his blood. He has been actively involved in the family business since he was a child. He has always strived to be the best in his field and constantly aims to offer a service better than any other company can match. Perhaps, the fact it’s a family business helps in this respect. In his profession there’s no room for error. H can’t afford to get it wrong. There’s simply no opportunity to put it right after the event. Every day is a once in a lifetime performance. This makes Ian very sensitive to his clients feelings and wishes. His wealth of experience is invaluable in his pursuit of perfection. He stresses the point, ‘I always represent my clients in a way I would want to be treated myself’
Away from the ‘shop’ Ian is active in local Royal town life; he’s a member of Wylde Green Rotary (some say a grumbling member) and a Governor at Highclare School.”
Ian has a collection of classic cars. He’s always been fond of Daimlers since a boy. He loves them for their prestige and because for him they are the best cars in the world. Unfortunately their death warrant was signed by Jaguar in 2010. No more will see the marque rolling off the production line.
He has renovated several classics over the years. He says he enjoys bringing them back to life once more, restoring them to their former glory. He currently cares for an E Type Jaguar, a Gilbern Invaders, and 2 Hillman Avengers, Tiger versions no less! Maybe it’s time for Ian to commence restoring old Daimlers?
I wonder if breathing life into his cherished cars is the antithesis of his profession. Ian is the owner on Ian Hazel Funerals Ltd, Mere Green, Sutton Coldfield after all.
