Your “one-stop” supplier for retail & commercial fenestration products
After nearly four decades at the helm, Gary Morton, founder and CEO of Central Window Systems, has officially stepped away from the business he built from the ground up. On May 9th, Gary completed the sale of his remaining shares, formally passing the torch to the next generation of leadership.
The new ownership team consists of Martyn Elwell, Kristie Hughes, and Matt Kelly. This marks a continuation of the values and vision Gary instilled in the company. Martyn and Kristie had previously acquired an initial shareholding in October 2021. With this final transaction, Matt Kelly joins them as a shareholder, signalling a new chapter in Central’s journey.
“I’m pleased to announce that on 9th May, I completed the sale of my remaining shares in the business,” Gary said in a message to staff, customers, and partners.”
This transition is not just about new ownership. It is also a moment of reflection on Gary’s legacy and the remarkable growth of Central Window Systems under his leadership. Starting from humble beginnings, Gary transformed Central into one of the UK’s most respected fenestration businesses, known for innovation, quality, and customer service.
As Gary steps back, he does so with great confidence in the team now leading the company forward.
“The business is in great shape,” he said. “And to be honest, the senior team, along with the broader team, has been managing the major day-to-day operations for some time.”
Martyn, Kristie, and Matt bring decades of combined experience and a deep understanding of the business. They have been instrumental in shaping Central’s recent successes and have earned Gary’s full trust and endorsement. Their leadership ensures that the company’s culture, focus, and customer-first ethos will remain unchanged.
Gary also took the opportunity to express his heartfelt appreciation for the entire Central family, both past and present.
“Of course, success takes more than just the senior team,” he added. “I’ve extended my heartfelt thanks to everyone at Central, past and present, for their support. And to our valued customers: without you, our continued success wouldn’t have been possible. Thank you, sincerely.”
While Gary’s official role may be ending, his connection to Central Window Systems will not. He has pledged to remain available in a supporting capacity and to help the leadership team whenever needed on the board.
“From your point of view, it will be very much business as usual,” he said. “While I plan to stay connected and offer help wherever and whenever needed, it’s now their company and I have complete confidence that they will continue to build on the fantastic success we’ve achieved together.”
Gary’s departure marks the end of an era but also the beginning of a promising new phase for Central. With a seasoned and passionate leadership team in place, the company is well-positioned to continue its tradition of excellence and innovation in the industry.
Everyone at Central Window Systems would like to express their deepest gratitude to Gary Morton for his vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the company and its people. His legacy will always be at the heart of Central, and his presence will be missed.
From all of us: thank you, Gary.
