AJ Rogers is more than a company; it’s a story of family, dedication, and a commitment to excellence that spans nearly six decades. Founded in 1966 by Christine and Anthony John Rogers, the company was named to reflect the personal investment and vision of its founders. From its humble beginnings, AJ Rogers has grown into a trusted name in its industry, built on hard work, strong values, and the strength of family ties.
From Home to Business
The shop that customers see today is more than just a workplace—it was once the family home of Trevor and Peter Rogers. The back of the shop, now bustling with activity, used to serve as the family’s TV room. This space, filled with memories, became the foundation of the company’s operations and continues to symbolise the family’s deep connection to the business.
The Early Days
AJ Rogers’ journey began with a Ford Transit camper van as its first vehicle for work. This modest start embodied the determination and ambition of Christine and Anthony Rogers, who worked tirelessly to build the company. In the late 1980s, the company transitioned to its now-iconic red fleet, starting with a Ford Thames as its first red van, signaling a new era of growth and confidence.
Trevor and Peter worked alongside their dad from the beginning, learning invaluable skills and knowledge from their father, Anthony. His hands-on training established a standard of excellence that the company continues to uphold today. Anne, the first employee, joined AJ Rogers 35 years ago to manage the shop and only retired two years ago. Her daughter, Gemma, who has been part of the team since 2001, now serves as the Shop Manageress. Gemma's dedication and commitment have been instrumental in maintaining the high standards of the shop and customer experience. Another key hire, Grant Kelley, brought valuable experience from Alders in Bromley. Alders, known for entrusting AJ Rogers with their most challenging tasks, played a pivotal role in building the company’s reputation as a leader in its field.
A New Chapter
When Christine and Anthony decided to retire and move to Wales in 1978, Trevor and Peter took over the business, continuing the family legacy. Despite retiring, Tony remained closely connected to the company, often visiting and even helping out during his trips back. His passion and dedication to AJ Rogers were unwavering.
In 1987, Trevor married Vanessa, who soon joined the company. Her involvement added another layer of family commitment, strengthening the foundation of the business during a crucial time of growth and transition. In 1999, Kevin joined AJ Rogers as a senior estimator. With his expertise and dedication, Kevin has become an integral part of the team and continues to play a key role in the company’s success. His long-standing commitment reflects the loyalty and strength of the team, which has been a cornerstone of AJ Rogers’ growth.
Sadly, Anthony suffered a stroke and passed away last year. His legacy, however, lives on—not just in the company he built but in the training and values he passed down to Trevor and Peter. These lessons have carried on through the company’s fitters, creating a culture of excellence and dedication that continues to thrive.
Growth and Expansion
Under Trevor and Peter’s leadership, AJ Rogers has grown significantly. The team now consists of 16 dedicated members, including nine skilled fitters. This growth reflects the company’s reputation for expertise and quality. New fitters are trained with the same care and attention that Anthony provided to his sons, ensuring that his legacy endures in every aspect of the business. In 2006, Peter’s son Michael joined the company, bringing a new generation into the fold. Michael now manages the fitters and oversees operations, playing a crucial role in the day-to-day running of the business. His leadership has been vital in supporting the team and ensuring the seamless delivery of the company’s renowned services.
Celebrating 50 Years
In 2016, AJ Rogers celebrated its 50th anniversary. This milestone marked decades of dedication, growth, and resilience, honouring the values that have defined the company since its inception. To celebrate in style, Trevor and Peter marked the occasion by taking all staff on a memorable trip to Bruges. This celebration highlighted the company’s appreciation for its team and their contributions. This year the team celebrated Christmas at Brandshatch 1920’s dinner and dance.
A Legacy That Lives On
Today, AJ Rogers is a thriving business, rooted in the vision of Christine and Anthony Rogers and sustained by the hard work and leadership of Trevor and Peter. From its beginnings in a family home to its current team of 16, the company stands as a testament to the strength of family values, skilled craftsmanship, and an enduring commitment to quality.
As AJ Rogers looks to the future, it continues to honour the memory of Anthony Rogers by carrying forward the lessons he instilled, ensuring that his legacy inspires and shapes the company for generations to come.
