Paul Arnold Passes
2002 brought significant change to Arnold's with the passing of Paul Arnold at age 73. As a third-generation family member, Paul had been a true innovator, pioneering developments that would shape the business's future. His legacy included the introduction of washed and bagged potatoes, the strategic relocation to Wodonga, and the forward-thinking implementation of Arnold's Online Home Delivery. His vision had helped modernize the business while maintaining its core values.
Paul William Arnold, a Pioneer of the Industry
Leadership transitioned to Roger Arnold, who stepped into the role of managing director with both determination and pragmatism. Without his father's experienced guidance to draw upon, Roger developed his own decisive management style. "So I just did it," he reflected, adding with characteristic wisdom, "I found that if you make a mistake, you just change direction." This philosophy of adaptability echoed his observation that "Changing with the times has been our success."
The year also saw the passing of Earle Arnold at age 86, marking the loss of another significant figure from Arnold's history. After his 47-year tenure with the business, Earle had left an indelible mark on the company's development through the mid-twentieth century.
Paul Arnold In Front of His Sisters Standard Flying 10 Touring (1946)
These transitions represented both an ending and a beginning - the loss of two generations of experience and wisdom, but also the dawn of a new era under Roger's leadership, carrying forward the family's tradition of innovation and adaptation while honoring the legacy of those who came before.