One of our customers is going to retire this month. He is the vice president of the company and has been doing business with us for many years. At the time of his retirement, I wrote a letter to him on behalf of the whole team. Here comes the letter.
Dear Bill,
At this special moment, please accept the greetings from China, a country you have visited so many times and a place where you have made so many good friends during the past eleven years. Eleven years! It is just a flash in the river of time, but it means a lot in one’s life. We feel so honored and appreciative that you have devoted the most important part of your life to China market. As one of the most important pioneers in introducing sulphur-based Sulphuric Acid technique to China, you have every reason to be proud of its rapid growth in China. Chinese customers owe great thanks to you; China phosphate fertilizer industry owes great thanks to you!
As our old friend, you have witnessed China’s rapid changes during the years. You once told us about your first visit to China, the memory which has been engraved on your mind forever. The dark and poorly furnished small airport in Guiyang, and the bumpy roads, and it took several hours to get to the factory…Now the shabby Guiyang airport has turned into a big modern airport in Southwest China. You have also witnessed the great development of sulphur-based Sulphuric Acid industry in China, to which you have contributed a lot thanks to your unremitting efforts.
· In our eyes, you are not only a capable business partner but also a good personal friend. Your relationship with the Chinese customers has gone far beyond business relations. Solid friendship has been forged between you and them. It is your unique personal charisma that has attracted them. Tonight, thanks to the advanced internet technology, some of them are sending their heartfelt regards from their hometown to show their thankfulness and acknowledgement.
However, ”There never was a feast but the guests have to depart”, as an ancient Chinese saying goes. The feast with you began about 11 years ago, and now it is coming to the end because of your retirement. Recalling the past 11 years, we have experienced joy and happiness, and we have come through hardships and difficulties. Now we will see you off as an outstanding business partner, but we are here to welcome you as our best friend.
Finally, we wish you to enjoy your life after retirement, and enjoy your time with your family. Meanwhile, we also wish you to come back sometime in the future, and your old buddies are always ready to embrace you in a place that can be called your second home.
Wish you good luck, Bill!
Sincerely yours,
Allen
