When Ali Tyrer took over at the helm of Tyrers department store she became the first woman to lead the legendary
St Helens company.

Her current success in the role would have delighted her father John Christopher Tyrer, whose sudden death from a heart attack had left Ali to run the family business. “When dad died, I didn’t have time to think about it, I just had to step into his shoes,”
said Ali, a fourth generation Tyrer.

“Losing him was awful but I feel like he left me with an incredible gift and I was obliged to grasp the opportunity.”

Tyrers, established by Ali’s great grandfather with a loan of £50 and a box of boots to sell, has been dubbed the “Harrods of the North”.

The department store boasts ladies and mens’ fashions, handbags, cosmetics, perfumery, a restaurant serving home-made
food, a hair and beauty salon and a timeless charm lost in most rival high street stores.

“Our simple goal is to overwhelm anyone who comes through our doors and ensure that they enjoy an experience they would
never have anywhere else,” explained Ali, 31, who as a teenager, learned her trade on the shop floor, clearing tables and
dishwashing in the restaurant.

“I have worked in every department and feel slightly uncomfortable with the title ‘Managing Director’ as I feel very much a team player.”

The store, on Bridge Street in St Helens, has recently undergone major refurbishment and expansion work with the ground floor
being transformed by a new floor, ceiling and a complete re-fit to the accessory department.

“It looks terrific and we have also introduced some new fashion lines,” said Ali. “I am really keen for the store to be glamorous
and forward-thinking and I know our staff and customers are really receptive to change, while at the same time retaining our traditional charm.”

Ali is striving for affordable luxury and, as well as a loyal band of customers aged over 50, she is also hoping to attract a younger
market of women aged 30 plus.

“These are exciting times and I have the benefit of a dedicated workforce who are as excited as I am,” she added.

Staff turnover at Tyrer’s is virtually nil, with several employees having been there all their working lives, including fashion buyer
Lynn Smith and Graham Stirrup from menswear.

Ali, a mother of two small children Hannah and Edward, works with St Helens Chamber on the Town Centre Partnership initiative,
attending meetings with its Manager.

“I am committed to Tyrers and St Helens and I hope dad would be proud,” she added.

For more information about Tyrers, visit their website

Read success stories about other successful St Helens companies