Around 120 guests attended the celebration. Long-standing member businesses were represented alongside newer members, with several families attending across multiple generations. The event was designed as a standalone celebration of Sterling Supergroup and the values it has been built on over six decades.

The evening began with a private tour of the Tower of London, including a viewing of the Crown Jewels, followed by a drinks reception in the White Tower.

Chairman Nigel Chadd and chief commercial officer Daniel Larkin addressed guests, with the occasion marked by a celebratory anniversary cake.

During his address, Chadd shared a message from former chief executive Anne Tomlinson, who was unable to attend, reflecting on Sterling’s proud history and enduring co-operative values.

Chadd said: “For 60 years, Sterling has shown what can be achieved when independent businesses come together and work well with one another. Our family ethos and belief in strength through cooperation sit at the heart of a long and successful history.

“Coming together at the Tower of London to mark this milestone is a fitting way to recognise the relationships and shared effort that continue to define the Sterling community, and it is a privilege to serve as chairman in such a special year.”

Guests enjoyed a formal dinner in the New Armouries, before the evening concluded with a talk from a Yeoman Warder, offering an insight into life living and working within one of the UK’s most historic settings.

Daniel Larkin, chief commercial officer at Sterling Supergroup, said: “Sterling’s 60th anniversary marks an important point in our journey, but our attention is firmly on the future. Coming together at the Tower of London to mark this occasion reflects both how far we have come and the direction we are heading.

“We are focused on building a resilient, commercially strong group that delivers meaningful value through partnership, ensuring Sterling remains the buying group of choice for years to come.”

The Tower of London celebration forms a key moment in Sterling’s anniversary year, which will conclude with the group’s 60th Annual Conference, taking place on 16–17 September in Hampshire.