In an era where career longevity is increasingly rare, Liam Barrett’s 25-year journey with SAM Leisure stands as a remarkable achievement, one marked by dedication and an unwavering commitment to the industry. As Operations Manager at SAM Leisure, Liam has not only witnessed the industry’s evolution but has played a pivotal role in shaping SAM Leisure’s trajectory over a quarter of a century.
Liam joined SAM Leisure in June 2000, a time when the industry was on the cusp of a digital revolution. From the early days of mechanical pool tables and jukeboxes to today’s cutting-edge electronic amusements, Liam has navigated change with professionalism and foresight. His leadership in operations has ensured that SAM Leisure consistently delivers quality, reliability, and innovation to venues across the UK.
Viola Drage, Director at SAM Leisure, said: “Liam has been a vital part of SAM Leisure for the past 25 years. His support, problem-solving and reliability have been invaluable — both to the business and to me personally. I can’t thank him enough for all the help, loyalty and expertise he’s offered throughout the years.”
As SAM Leisure marks this milestone, the company reflects not only on Liam’s contributions but also on the values that have kept him — and the business — going strong: loyalty, innovation, and a genuine love for the sector.
This year, SAM Leisure is also proud to celebrate two other major anniversaries. Kevin Reed, a long-standing installations specialist, marks 25 years working closely with the company. His technical expertise, consistency, and deep knowledge of SAM’s equipment have made him an integral part of the team’s success and a trusted figure in the field. Meanwhile, Paul Hamilton marks 20 years as Installations Manager — a role he’s carried out with integrity, hard work, and a team spirit that truly reflects the culture of SAM Leisure. Paul’s commitment and expertise have been instrumental in delivering successful installations across the UK.
Reflecting on the team’s combined service, Viola added: “Kevin and Paul are both exceptional in what they do — and it’s no exaggeration to say that SAM Leisure wouldn’t be what it is today without them. Their loyalty and hard work over the years have meant so much to me and the whole business. It’s a real honour to be celebrating these milestones together, and we look forward to continuing to work together.”