Our Tribute to Adrian Fitzpatrick

A proud Yorkshireman and former pupil of Bradford Grammar school, Adrian was one of 5 original directors of Arena Group who, at a time when the copy and print was in its darkest years of disreputable business practice, were driven to found a company that had their customers’ interests at its heart. It was a value that endured through the 30 years of Adrian’s masterful directorship, growing to employ over 200 and serving around 3500 customers, and setting the tone for a positive business culture rarely found.  

As MD, Adrian oversaw growth from the original Hunslet office to a client base across Yorkshire, North Wales and North West, the North East and Midlands through organic growth and acquisition. Arena achieved accolades including Yorkshire best Company to Work For and a Sunday Times Top SME Place to Work.  His authenticity and commitment to customers remains with the Arena employees he nurtured within the Xerox family as a legacy to his successful leadership. 

Adrian was one of life’s true gentlemen and an inspiration to many. His dependable smile and welcome to all every morning around the office at Armitage House was as much part of the landscape as the distinctive brickwork of Armitage House. We will all miss him more than words can express.  Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.