Wake Up to Money Sir Alec Reed
Dec 30, 2025
James Reid, Chief Executive of Reed and son of founder Sir Alec Reed, shares captivating insights about family business dynamics and legacy. He reminisces about his father's warmth and entrepreneurial spirit, the company's humble beginnings, and inventive workplace culture. James discusses the challenges of succession, the importance of philanthropy through the Reed Foundation, and engaging major donors to boost generosity. He reflects on the lasting influence of his father and the need to prepare future family leaders in the business.
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People Plus Ideas Drove The Business
- James Reid says Alec genuinely loved people and ideas, which fueled Reed's long-term growth.
- That combination of curiosity and idea-generation became the cultural engine of the company.
Radiator Fix That Revealed A Character
- James Reid recalls being lifted to pee into his father's Aston Martin radiator to fix an overheating engine as a five-year-old.
- The episode illustrates Alec Reid's eccentric, determined, and improvisational problem-solving style.
Hounslow Start And Heathrow Windfall
- James Reid recounts Reed's early boom from opening near Heathrow and making a profit in the first week from a £75 start.
- The story highlights a mix of timing, location and strategic specialization that launched the company.