For people living in Warrnambool, the name Fletcher Jones is legendary. From humble beginnings in a hawker's wagon, travelling around Western Victoria, to a trousers factory that employed more than a thousand people, his story is quite amazing. In this autobiography, written when Fletcher Jones was in his very late seventies, the reader meets a long line of fascinating characters who helped the author carve out an extraordinary chapter in Australian retailing. The title points modestly to the fact that he could never have achieved what he did without these people.
The stories from Fletcher's early life prov-ide fascinating glimpses into a world that has now virtually disappeared. This alone would make this book a worthy read but there's another story here, a story about determ-ination, imagination and innovation in business and commerce. The author skilfully explains the influences and thought processes behind the decisions that gave his clothing business a unique and unsurpassed reputation throughout Australia. His five basic objectives can be summarised as: 1) lifting the general quality of Australian made clothing, 2) developing a scientific range of fractional fittings, 3) developing a more efficient means of distribution - cutting out the middle man, thus making the clothing more affordable, 4) manage-ment by consultation, and 5) staff co-operative ownership. A sixth was added later, namely, a non-profit basis after-sales service.
Fletcher Jones was ahead of his time in many regards. He understood industrial and staff relations better than many even today. But there is a sad postnote to the book for Warrnambool residents who, in recent years, have witnessed the gradual decline and eventual closure of the FJ factory. The beautiful gardens remain and the site is still a hub of community activity, so one can only hope that the legacy of this fine Christian man will not be dimmed with the passing of time.
Although this book is more about his clothing business than his Christianity, FJ's faith in God shows through in many ways, including his involvement with TocH, an international Christian movement for soldiers.
One interesting quote: "Every man has two birthdays. One is the day he is born into the world and the other is the day he wakes up in it. This complicated world of isms is a baffling place to live in. Unless we can help a man express his spiritual growth through his job, we fail him."
A delightful book, written with refreshing humility and gratitude.
