Intrapreneurship: George Beeton’s managerial contribution to the Edgars Group, 1963-1996

Abstract

George Beeton was employed by the Edgars Group, a clothing, footwear and household textiles retailer, for 33 years, starting as a Management Trainee in 1963. He entered the top management structure in 1972 when he took charge of the struggling Jet Stores chain. His success with the chain earned him promotion to Managing Director of the Edgars chain, the Group’s largest chain. In 1990, he ascended to the position of Chief Executive, which he held until February 1996 when he retired from the Group. Within the context of Edgars, as well as the broader socio-economic environment, this article considers some of the contributing factors to Beeton’s success and longevity in the Group. Furthermore, it explores the contribution he made through his leadership and management approach to the development of the chains he was involved in, as well as to the Group during his time as Chief Executive.