Workplace360 Issue 8. December 2023

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business supplies and beyond ISSUE 8 - DECEMBER 2023

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business supplies and beyond

TIME FOR ACTION

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his issue, I’m writing the Editor’s note on the eve of a globally important event – COP28. If you’ve no idea what I’m referring to, don’t worry, you’re certainly not alone. COP, short for Conference of Parties, is the “main decision-making body of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). It brings together the 198 Parties –197 nations plus the European Union – that have signed on to the Framework Convention”.

COP takes place on an annual basis and this year is being hosted in the UAE. 70,000 delegates from around the world are expected to convene to argue, negotiate and hopefully forge impactful agreements towards combatting climate change and working towards net zero.

If you’ve yet to embark on sustainability initiatives, now is an opportune moment

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A massive congratulations to everyone who won a 2023 BOSS Award. The full list of winners can be found on page 50

Photo: COP28 / Mahmoud Khaled

EDITOR’S NOTE

While our coverage of the key COP28 issues and agreements will be published in the January/February 2024 issue, this edition is brimming with content centred around sustainability. For starters, there’s a useful Jargon buster (page 12) to demystify words commonly encountered in discussions on this subject.

Terms such as Scope emissions, for example. Luckily, these are expertly explained in Scope for more, written

by Planet Mark’s Jonathan Withey (page 22).

In the realm of sustainability, language precision is crucial to avoid accusations of greenwashing. Dive into Decoding greenwashing (page 44) for insights into navigating these pitfalls effectively.

If you’ve yet to embark on sustainability initiatives, now is an opportune moment. As highlighted by Red-Inc founder Adam Huttly in Leading the charge (page 14), customers of all sizes are increasingly seeking details on carbon footprints and the environmental aspects of products. In his words, “the pace of sustainability is accelerating”.

However, the business supplies industry is lagging behind, as revealed by the Workplace360 Green Thinking survey (page 46). It will take a concerted effort from our entire sector to get up to speed. Indeed, speakers at the recent BOSS Sustainability Conference (review on page 34) highlighted the absolute necessity for everyone to work together – especially on the issue of substantive data to support sustainability claims for products and carbon emissions.

Michelle Sturman, Editor

business supplies and beyond

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business supplies and beyond

Workplace360 c/o OPI, Focus House, Fairclough Hall, Halls Green, Hertfordshire SG4 7DP Tel: 020 7841 2950 Follow us online: Website: workplace360.co.uk Linkedin: workplace360.co.uk/linkedin

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No part of this magazine may be reproduced, copied, stored in an electronic retrieval system or transmitted save with written permission or in accordance with provision of the copyright designs and patents act of 1988. Stringent efforts have been made by Office Products International to ensure accuracy. However, due principally to the fact that data cannot always be verified, it is possible that some errors or omissions may occur. Office Products International cannot accept responsibility for such errors or omissions. Office Products International accepts no responsibility for comments made by contributing authors or interviewees that may offend.

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CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2023 03 Editor’s note 06 News 12 Jargon buster Be in the know with this handy guide to the latest sustainability terminology 20 Event Ambiente 2023 preview 22 Insight Planet Mark’s Jonathan Withey explains how to deal with Scope 3 emissions 26 Heart of the industry Climb of Life 2023 review 28 Thought leadership Mark Heath from Office Power explores diversification, sustainability and technology 34 Event BOSS Sustainability Conference review

36 Advertorial: Sylvamo The paper manufacturer advances its commitment to sustainability 38 Sustainability Rock Fall’s Richard Noon highlights the company’s dedication to sustainable safety footwear 40 IMO CRC’s Michael Boyd-Phillips looks at the benefits of repair and refurbishment 42 Event Office Friendly Conference 2023 review 44 Sustainability Steps to take to avoid greenwashing 48 Heart of the industry BOSS Leaders of the Future Conference review 54 Exposed!

Rachael Lewis from OT Group

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Kim Thurgood-Brown believes in finding a sustainability ‘champion’

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Find out who won at the 2023 BOSS Awards

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Sustainability spotlight: Red-Inc’s Adam Huttly explains the value of pursuing a triple bottom line

WORKPLACE360 - DECEMBER 2023

redesigns are helping to boost the 30 Office breakroom category

46 Workplace360 Green Thinking survey The results from the inaugural

NEWS

OT Group to ditch OfficeTeam and ZenOffice brand OT Group has announced that its contract business will go to market under one brand Multichannel operator OT Group has announced a rebranding which will mark the end of the OfficeTeam and ZenOffice brands. Instead, Office Depot has been selected as the name for its contract unit going forward.

OT Group bought Office Depot Europe’s larger midmarket, major and public sector contract customers in the UK and Ireland in 2021, also acquiring a distribution centre near Manchester.

The organisation said the Office Depot brand is “well-recognised across the globe as a leading provider of business services, supplies and technology solutions, through an omnichannel approach in many countries”.

OT Group CEO Andrew Jones commented: “The market has seen multiple brands under the OT Group umbrella. Our move to realign our contract division under a single brand is about clarity – making it easier for customers to do business with us. The rebrand is a significant milestone in our journey to provide more diverse solutions to our clients.”

He added: “Our recent change in ERP system has been a transformative step, making us more agile in delivering value to our customers, paving the way for a number of new enhancements.

“We’re now also able to offer over one million products through our online platform and we’re actively forming strategic partnerships to expand our range of business-critical services. All these elements come together in our rebrand, which serves as a cornerstone in our broader vision to redefine customer experience and lead the industry.”

Moving forward, OT Group will use two distinct brands within its market approach. Office Depot will emerge as the primary entity within the contract space, while Spicers will continue to anchor the wholesale channel offering.

Management changes at Nectere Well-known UK office products exec Adam Noble has taken on a full-time role at dealer services group Nectere. Noble has been named as Executive Chairman of the business which is now minority-owned by OT Group following a strategic investment earlier this year (read OT Group takes action on page 36 of the September issue of Workplace360 for more details on the deal).

Noble spent 30 years at Derby-based dealer Irongate and then led the group sales function at Complete after it bought Irongate in 2019. He left Complete in April this year following its administration and subsequent acquisition by EVO. Noble is currently reviewing Nectere’s structure and its proposition to “ensure it aligns with the needs of its partners, current and future”. Shortly after it was announced that Noble had been named Executive Chairman, it was revealed that Mike O’Reilly had left the business to “seek new opportunities that he’s had an interest in for some time”.

O’Reilly, who had been with Nectere for the past 12 years, was part of the team that led the management buyout from former owners Paul and Serena Musgrove earlier this year. What impact his departure has had on Nectere’s ownership structure was not specified.

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From left: Adrian Reid and Adam Noble

Taking on O’Reilly’s role is former Nectere executive Adrian Reid, who had spent eight years at the company – the majority of that time as Sales Director – before leaving at the end of 2022 prior to the organisation’s change of ownership. For the past ten months, he has been in a business development role at Spicers.

In a note to stakeholders, Head of Commercial Steve Harrop said the group would be presenting its plans for “a positive and exciting future early in the new year”.

NEWS

Chris Marshall passes away Workplace360 is saddened to learn of the passing of UK stockless dealer pioneer Chris Marshall in early November.

Chris joined the office products industry in 1979 and was instrumental in developing Spicers’ stockless dealer model in the 1990s. He also worked for Interactive Products (later acquired by ECI) and was a director at dealer JG Fenn in the 2000s.

After retiring in 2015, Chris devoted much of his time to running and developing Eccleshall Cricket Club near Stafford. The team at W360 sends its sincere condolences to Chris’ family and friends.

Badgemaster acquires Badgemaster has acquired the business and assets – including several staff – of Corporate Insignia, expanding its range of name badges.

While Badgemaster offers personalised plastic, wood and bamboo badges, Corporate Insignia supplies a metal variation.

The businesses will operate as a single entity from Badgemaster’s Nottingham location “under the umbrella of accreditations already held by Badgemaster”, including its Ecovadis Silver rating.

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NEWS

Rocada makes statement about UK market

MOVERS & SHAKERS BOSS welcomes new board member

ACCO Brands’ Regional VP Mark Wilkinson has joined the board of the BOSS Federation. Wilkinson is a familiar face in the UK workplace supplies industry, having been with ACCO since 1998. He currently leads the manufacturer’s UK & Ireland operations.

Nice named interim CEO at BOSS

Debbie Nice is to serve as interim CEO at the BOSS Federation for the next few months. Nice – a well-known figure in the industry – will cover for Amy Hutchinson, who is taking maternity leave.

From left: Arnau Verdaguer Febrer, Ken Trenberth, Marc Roca

Following the tragic and sudden death of Ken Trenberth in October, Spain-based furniture and viscom vendor Rocada has paid tribute to its popular UK Director and reaffirmed its commitment to the UK market.

Trenberth was an influential figure in the launch of the Rocada brand into the UK last year and helped the company gain traction in the business products channel, especially with mid-market resellers. Immediate responsibility for building on Trenberth’s initial success will be assumed by Arnau Verdaguer Febrer, who has worked in Rocada’s export division for four years. He will report to the company’s Managing Director Marc Roca.

Speaking exclusively to Workplace360, Roca said: “Ken and I became good friends the day we met [pictured]. He was such a consummate professional and we had many business plans together. We will miss him as a wonderful person and the industry has lost a much-admired colleague – that is clear from the many messages of support we and Ken’s family have received.”

Regarding the UK business, Roca noted: “We are talking with Ken’s family about how we may keep the Trenberths involved as we are sure that would have been his wish. But while they navigate their immediate personal challenges, we are committed to building upon Ken’s legacy under the supervision of Arnau and hope that the UK business supplies community will support us in the same way it got behind Ken and the Rocada UK launch.

He added: “Sadly, we must say RIP to our dear friend, but hopefully Ken’s memory will live on via the many brands whose success locally was largely due to his efforts, charisma and professionalism.”

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Staff changes at OT Group

OT Group has made a series of promotions and appointments. Most recently, Martin Weedall (above) has been named COO. Having spent 30 years at EVO Group, he joined OT Group in 2022 as Group Operations Director.

Weedall’s focus as COO will be on ensuring the journey from customer integration to ordering, delivery and after sales care is “seamless”.

Meanwhile, former Group Sales Director UK & Ireland Stuart Derbyshire (left) has stepped into the role of Chief Sales Officer. He will develop strategic growth in print, MPS, furniture and the Endless Aisle proposition.

In October, Michael Harrison (left) was appointed CFO. With a history in the banking sector, including roles at Bupa Global & UK and Lloyds Banking Group, Harrison has brought extensive experience to the position and will guide OT Group’s financial trajectory.

NEWS

New research finds meeting culture stalls productivity Brother UK has shared research stating more than half (55%) of office workers feel they “waste too much time” in meetings that reduce their productivity. The research, based on a poll of 2,000 UK office workers, revealed that 57% of respondents said they only attend a useful meeting once a week.

A further 81% are confident shorter calls and catchups would achieve the same outcomes while creating more time to deliver responsibilities. Respondents cited waffling (59%), too much small talk (48%), late joiners (31%) and people not paying attention (31%) as the worst culprits for timewasting. Furthermore, 43% were convinced that colleagues try and do other work during most meetings.

The study also showed that staff see morning, inperson meetings with a schedule as the most effective.

Two-thirds (67%) stated face-to-face meetings were more productive than meeting virtually. Additionally, Brother UK concluded the main drivers of a productive meeting were timekeeping (88%), sticking to a strict agenda (78%), circulating action notes (74%), putting

laptops and phones away (73%) and keeping cameras on when meeting virtually (61%).

Brother UK Managing Director Phil Jones MBE said: “There’s still work to do to right the UK’s meeting culture, even in our own business. Greater consideration of time, place and how to better facilitate calls and catch-ups will help nurture more productive meetings.”

Other key findings include: • 53% stated they attend too many “unengaging and poorly structured” meetings, with this figure rising to 67% among remote workers.

• 87% feel they are at their best before midday, with 9 am-11 am the most productive period.

• 54% said meetings which overrun make them feel frustrated, with 27% feeling demotivated and 25% thinking less of their colleagues.

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NEWS

Chapman continues charitable pursuits

MOVERS & SHAKERS Oracle Director exits

Office Oracle – part of the OO Group – has announced the departure of its Director, Daniel Coshall. He first started at the OO Group 12 years ago and has held positions including Operations Manager, Managing Director and Director of Operations.

BPGI announces executive board

In 1964, when industry legend Graeme Chapman MBE (pictured) was just 20 years old, he embarked on an audacious adventure across Europe and the Middle East with a mere £96 in his pocket and plenty of determination. Now, decades later, his story has finally come to light.

The pandemic prompted Chapman to revisit his epic 12-month journey, documented in notebooks and Kodak slides. Encouraged to put pen to paper by EO Group CEO Simon Drakeford, their collaboration birthed a plan: publish Chapman’s tale, with all proceeds divided between the BOSS Business Supplies Charity and the Institute of Cancer Research.

The book, By Thumb to the Lowest Point on Earth, is a culmination of Chapman’s hitchhiking escapades and cultural encounters.

Anticipated sales carry the potential to inject a substantial boost into charity coffers in the coming year.

To order a copy of the book, email: ghc157@yahoo.co.uk or visit: bosscharity.org/bythumbbook.

Purchasing organisation BPGI has confirmed its executive board committee for 2024 and 2025.

Following a vote by the board of managers, Integra Business Solutions CEO Aidan McDonough (above) was reappointed as Chair.

Nemo Office Club’s Tim Beaumont (left) will also continue in his role as Treasurer.

Office Distribution’s Andrea Ghidini has stepped down as Vice Chair after two years.

He has now been succeeded by Arnold Theuws (left), CEO of Netherlands-based cooperative and wholesaler Quantore.

IWS Group names CEO

Deflecto announces distribution partnership Deflecto Europe has finalised a new distribution partnership benefitting UK- and Ireland customers. The supplier has signed an agreement with Germany-based vendor Holtz Office Support to distribute Magnetoplan visual communication products.

As the oldest brand for magnetic, visual communication solutions, Magnetoplan has received multiple iF Design Awards in the Office/Stationery category. Deflecto Europe’s Managing Director Adrian Mayes added that the new distribution route will offer customers direct access to Magnetoplan from the UK distribution centre in Newport.

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Warehouse and facilities products vendor IWS Group – parent company of Beaverswood, Rack Group, Anco Storage and Brandsafe – has announced the appointment of a new CEO. Richard Harden has taken on the role, succeeding former CEO Jeroen van den Berge. Harden has a strong leadership background, previously holding CEO and Managing Director positions at Stuart Turner and WILO, alongside being President of trade organisation BPMA.

SUSTAINABILITY – JARGON BUSTER

Bamboozled?

Given the rapid evolution of sustainability/CSR practices, it can be challenging to stay abreast of all the specialised terminology. Below are some of the prevalent terms to aid in navigating this intricate landscape

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AEROBIC DIGESTION A digestion process that uses bacteria and oxygen to break down organic and biological matter such as food waste.

ANAEROBIC DIGESTION Anaerobic digestion is a process that uses bacteria to break down organic matter to produce biogas. It also produces biofertiliser for use in ethanol production or building materials.

B CORP B Corp’s are for-profit companies that have voluntarily committed to meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability and transparency set by B Lab.

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BIODEGRADABLE Biodegradable refers to the ability to decay naturally by the action of living things such as bacteria, fungi and microorganisms. It produces natural gases and biomass.

BIOFUEL Biofuel is made from living things or their waste and is a viable alternative to fossil fuels.

The most common biofuels are ethanol, biogas and biodiesel.

BIOPLASTICS Bioplastic is a plastic made from plant materials from renewable biological sources, including corn starch, vegetable fats and oils rather than petroleum. Most bioplastics are biodegradable.

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Vegan

CARBON CREDIT A carbon credit is a tradable certificate or permit enabling the holder to produce CO2 or other greenhouse gases (GHGs). The emission limit is up to a mass equal to one ton of carbon dioxide.

COMPOSTABLE Materials that, under the right conditions and within a specific timeframe, break down into non-toxic components.

CARBON FOOTPRINT Carbon footprint is the amount of GHG emissions released into the atmosphere due to human activities, whether from an individual, organisation or community.

CARBON NEUTRAL/NEUTRALITY Carbon neutral describes the process of an entity such as a business, product or event, where the carbon emissions produced are offset with an equivalent amount of CO2 removed.

CARBON OFFSETS Carbon offsets are a response to carbon emissions and refer to the purchase of verified carbon credits to compensate for GHGs produced by individuals or companies. Carbon offsetting is considered to be a last resort when all other efforts to mitigate carbon emissions have been exhausted.

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CSR CSR, or corporate social responsibility, is a concept whereby companies seek to enhance the environment and society.

Initiatives can encompass activities like adopting sustainable business practices, supporting charitable causes and promoting ethical employment practices.

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CARBON EMISSION Carbon emissions refer to the release of carbon compounds – particularly CO2 – into the atmosphere. CO2 is the primary GHG emitted through human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels for energy, manufacturing processes and transportation.

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CLOSED LOOP Closed loop refers to a business model where products are recycled and reused or when manufacturing waste is used to provide the energy required to produce new materials.

CARBON CAPTURE AND STORAGE Carbon capture and storage is a technology which captures carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from industrial processes and electricity generation.

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CIRCULAR ECONOMY A circular economy is a model based on the principles of extending the life cycle of products/materials for as long as possible through sharing, leasing, recycling, reusing, repairing, refurbishing, etc.

CRADLE TO CRADLE Inspired by nature, a cradle to cradle framework aims to create waste-free production techniques by ensuring technical material can be recycled or reused while retaining the same quality.

Meanwhile, any biological materials will be consumed or composted.

CRADLE TO GRAVE Put simply, cradle to grave is the full life cycle assessment of a product or activity from extraction to disposal and the environmental impact it creates. The term can also refer to a company’s responsibility for the disposal of items it has produced.

ESG ESG stands for environmental, social and governance and is frequently used interchangeably with CSR and sustainability. It refers to a reporting framework designed to measure a business’s impact and performance in ESG categories and used by investors to identify risks and growth opportunities.

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SUSTAINABILITY – JARGON BUSTER

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DEI DEI stands for diversity, equity and inclusion – aimed at creating more inclusive and equitable environments within organisations and society.

• Diversity refers to the presence of a wide range of human characteristics, experiences and identities, including gender, race, ethnicity, age, neurodiversity and sexual orientation.

• Equity involves ensuring impartial and fair treatment, access, opportunity and advancement for people while recognising and addressing their unique needs, challenges and advantages.

• Inclusion is the continuous engagement of diverse individuals and the creation of an environment where everyone feels respected, empowered and heard.

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f- riendly E-WASTE E-waste commonly refers to the waste and disposal of broken or obsolete electronic devices and components. It includes products such as mobile phones, computers and TVs. GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) Greenhouse gases include methane, carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide produced by human activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation. These gases absorb infrared radiation and trap heat in the earth’s atmosphere, thereby contributing to global warming.

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GREENHUSHING A growing trend that involves organisations not communicating sustainability targets and/or efforts for fear of greenwashing accusations.

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MICROPLASTICS Fragments of plastic particles less than 5mm in length are called microplastics.

PARIS AGREEMENT / PARIS CLIMATE ACCORD The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty on climate change.

It aims to keep the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C. POST-CONSUMER RECYCLED (PCR) Material or products that have served their initial purpose and been diverted from landfill are known as postconsumer recycled content. PCR is often used in reference to plastic that will be recycled.

SBTI The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) helps businesses in the private sector to set science-based emissions reduction targets to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.

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SCOPE 1 Scope 1 emissions are direct GHG emissions generated by a company’s owned and controlled operations, including transport, manufacturing processes, heating buildings, etc.

SCOPE 2 Scope 2 emissions are indirect GHG emissions from the purchase and use of energy – electricity, steam, heat and cooling – from a utility provider.

NET ZERO Net zero occurs when GHG emissions released into the atmosphere are balanced out by the removal or offsetting of such emissions over a specified period.

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GREENWASHING A form of marketing which makes misleading claims about environmental practices, services or products that leads consumers to believe a company is more environmentally friendly than it really is.

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LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT (LCA) Life cycle assessment is cradle to cradle or cradle to grave analysis of the total environmental impact of a product’s life, including raw material extraction, manufacturing, use and disposal.

SCOPE 3 Scope 3 emissions are all indirect GHG emissions not covered under Scope 1 and 2. Sometimes referred to as value chain emissions, they occur in the reporting company’s upstream (related to the purchased or acquired goods and services) and downstream (related to the goods and services sold by the reporting business).

SINGLE-USE PLASTIC Single-use plastic refers to disposable plastic packaging and items intended to be used only once before being taken away or recycled. These include items such as straws, carrier bags, bottles and containers, cutlery and snack wrappers.

UN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDGS) Set by the UN, the SDGs are a blueprint for achieving a more sustainable future. There are 17 SDGs designed to address current global challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate, peace, prosperity and environmental degradation.

TRIPLE BOTTOM LINE A sustainability accounting framework that changes the traditional financial bottom line to prioritise people, planet and profit equally.

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ZERO CARBON (NET ZERO CARBON) Zero carbon/net zero carbon means a product, service or activity that creates no carbon emissions.

ZERO WASTE Zero waste is the mission of producing little or no waste. It promotes responsible manufacturing, consumption and reuse or recycling of materials, products and packaging.

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SUSTAINABILITY SPOTLIGHT – RED-INC

Leading the charge Red-Inc has been quietly revolutionising the world of business supplies in the eyes of customers. Workplace360 Editor Michelle Sturman caught up with founder and Managing Director Adam Huttly to find out the nitty-gritty of being the UK’s first dealer to attain B Corp status and the world’s first to have its net zero targets approved by SBTi 14

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SUSTAINABILITY SPOTLIGHT – RED-INC

Workplace360: Let’s start with an overview of your career.

Adam Huttly: My entry into this sector was somewhat serendipitous. A friend working at an office supplies dealer thought I’d excel in sales, and that’s when I discovered a knack for connecting with people. However, over time, I grew disillusioned with the industry, so I made the leap and established my own firm, Red-Inc, in 2008 – a crazy move considering the global recession.

The mission was never about scaling a company with an army of salespeople peddling anything to anyone – it had to do with reshaping the industry narrative.

Could I pioneer a business model with deeper meaning, value and purpose? I wanted to break free from the conventional dialogues around turnover and headcounts that dominated the conversation for decades.

I measure our success as a small enterprise by the impact we have on all the company’s stakeholders – staff, the community, clients and suppliers as well as the environment. Although we may not have recognised it at the time, Red-Inc essentially operates as a triple bottom line business, placing equal emphasis on people, planet and profit. It is a perspective guiding every decision made.

W360: In 2008, sustainability wasn’t even a ‘thing’.

AH: Exactly. Back then, sustainability was not part of the conversation, whereas now it’s used 3,000 times a day.

While somewhat of an overused term, it encapsulates the complex discourse perfectly.

I aimed to construct something of value, rigorously considering everything from product selection and logistics to staff wellbeing. It also included ensuring a work culture free of the toxicity frequently associated with high-pressure sales environments. Reflecting on the early days of Red-Inc, our focus was very much on the green agenda – prioritising recycling and implementing initiatives that benefitted customers and the broader community.

W360: How does Red-Inc operate today?

AH: We’re a bit of a mix. We have our own warehouse, which primarily serves some of our larger clients with specific needs. It allows us to maintain a high level of control and deliver a platinum-level service.

Despite being known for sustainable office supplies, the core focus is always on our customers – how can we consistently amaze, leave a lasting impression and provide unparalleled value?

This ties back to my aversion to an industry built on a ‘pile it high, sell it cheap’ mentality. We all know that

if you win customers based solely on price, you will lose them in the same way. I didn’t want to spend the next few decades of my career in this cycle.

While the decision to have the warehouse was prompted by client demands, we still rely on wholesalers for deliveries – particularly for our large national contracts with major corporations. As a small company, handling such logistics internally would be impractical.

Red-Inc essentially operates as a triple bottom line company, placing equal emphasis on people, planet and profit W360: You mentioned serving large corporate clients while considering Red-Inc to be a micro business. How do you manage this?

AH: Despite being a relatively minor operation, we’ve cultivated an incredibly talented team. The size of our staff or sales figures is secondary. We’ve secured tenders with corporates because they are forwardthinking and seek something beyond the conventional office supplies dealer.

Red-Inc’s approach and language set us apart, as do extensive value-added services and a longstanding commitment to sustainability, with the latter positioning us as a leader in the field. For instance, our carbon footprint has been diligently tracked internally since 2016 and we’re also a certified B Corp.

W360: Clearly, your value-added services are a significant aspect of what makes Red-Inc unique.

Could you elaborate?

AH: When we engage with clients, business supplies is never the primary focus of our conversation. The industry has historically revolved around two main selling points – next-day delivery and competitive pricing. I was convinced there had to be more to it, something which resonated on a deeper, more emotionally compelling level.

Over the years, we’ve created numerous USPs, allowing us to enjoy extensive discussions concerning our offering without even mentioning product. It’s so distinct customers are often surprised; some even ask if we ever plan to talk about selling office supplies.

I’m aiming for them to understand our operations, which encompass a wide array of programmes

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SUSTAINABILITY SPOTLIGHT – RED-INC and innovative ideas. For starters, there’s our deep commitment to decarbonising supply chains. Then there is opting not to provide next-day delivery – a decision that often leaves people open-mouthed.

Obviously, we can’t just say we’re not doing it; customers need to appreciate why. So they are provided with data on the CO2 savings resulting from reduced deliveries; once presented with the evidence, they realise the impracticality of next-day deliveries. For Red-Inc, there are additional benefits, such as larger order values and not having to rush through picking and packing overnight for early morning dispatch.

We collaborate with clients to establish mutually agreeable terms of delivery. We’ve even transitioned to quarterly deliveries for some of the bigger corporate partners. The impact on the journey towards decarbonising the supply chain and achieving net zero targets is incredible.

W360: Let’s talk about your deliveries in the context of reaching net zero.

AH: Our primary service provider is DPD, and while certain segments of the delivery process utilise electric vehicles, it’s not perfect. Currently, having an electric service from start to finish isn’t feasible. There’s still a need for someone to trunk the products and the necessary infrastructure for electric vehicles is not yet in place.

Maintaining transparency and avoiding greenwashing is paramount. One of the first rules of sustainability is honesty and acknowledging what can be achieved and what can’t. Some of the most engaging conversations I’ve had with other companies revolve around the challenges they face, not just their successes.

We’ve aligned with DPD because of its vision of achieving net zero, which matches our target set for 2040. Back to my earlier point, it’s important to recognise that some tasks won’t be accomplished by some miracle tomorrow or even in the forthcoming years. It would be foolish to pretend otherwise.

Hitting net zero hinges on us all moving in the same direction and the emergence of supporting technologies in due course.

W360: How do you ensure your customers fully grasp the significance of carbon reduction?

AH: In addition to furnishing clients with detailed reports on the carbon footprint of their purchases, we take the initiative to offset any remaining emissions at our own expense. It serves as a tangible demonstration of our commitment to addressing this critical issue. It is a topic we actively integrate into client conversations, reviews and collaborative efforts to drive improvement.

W360: Offsetting remains quite a contentious issue…

AH: You’re absolutely right. However, at present, it stands as a valid means of working towards achieving net zero. We’ve opted for REDD+, a United Nations-backed framework with the highest grade offset certificates available. As we continue on our path to net zero and achieve a 90% reduction in emissions, it is more than likely the residual 10% will necessitate offsetting.

My understanding from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is that addressing this remaining percentage will undoubtedly require using permanent

Hitting net zero hinges on us all moving in the same direction and the emergence of supporting technologies in due course

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SALES GROWTH IN 2022/23

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SCIENCE BASED TARGETS INITIATIVE (SBTI) NET ZERO EMISSIONS GOAL

SUSTAINABILITY SPOTLIGHT – RED-INC carbon removal technologies, such as direct air capture and advanced weathering. While these technologies hold promise, they’re not yet at a largescale or cost-effective stage of development.

Red-Inc isn’t squeaky clean or does everything perfectly as we don’t have the capacity or the tools.

But we are doing everything possible to mitigate our carbon footprint.

W360: This leads nicely to your recent milestone of having your net zero targets approved by SBTi. What motivated this decision?

AH: Mainly it’s because I’m overly bothered by everything. The Red-Inc model is meticulously crafted, and I’m personally invested in every intricate detail – from customer engagement to the user experience, and especially our sustainability journey. As a certified B Corp with substantiated claims, progressing to SBTi felt like the next natural progression, even though it’s traditionally associated with corporates.

I want to push the boundaries and serve as an inspiration to others through the strides my company is taking. It’s not about gaining a competitive edge but about leading the way and improving an industry.

I genuinely want to be a disruptor and advocate for a better way of conducting business. While commercial viability is obviously crucial, it doesn’t have to be all about the money.

Red-Inc is at the coalface because of our client base and we get drip-fed so much valuable information. We’re privy to the imminent developments in the sustainability landscape. For example, it’s no longer only the corporate giants and major clients seeking answers on Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions. The ripple effect is gaining momentum and approaching rapidly.

W360: Your SBTi targets are ambitious, aiming for net zero by 2040 and a 50% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030, based on your 2018 baseline.

How do you plan to achieve these goals?

AH: To be honest, it’s not going to be a walk in the park. Managing Scope 1 and 2 emissions is within our control and is, relatively speaking, more straightforward. For Scope 3, however, the challenge is considerably greater, given that much of it lies beyond our direct influence. Attaining success in this area will require cooperation from every participant in the supply chain.

In recent years, the industry focus has centred on survival and, let’s face it, who in the business supplies sector really cared about sustainability until last week? Now it’s terrifying people and they’re

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CERTIFIED AS A B CORP

It’s no longer only the corporate giants and major clients seeking answers on Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions running around like headless chickens. I’m committed to sharing my expertise through collaborations with Advantia, Exertis Supplies and the BOSS Federation.

I need to get this conversation out to dealers and let them know what’s happening as they often operate in their own little bubble.

W360: At the manufacturer level, what steps should be prioritised to drive progress?

AH: Currently, there’s a need to refine and standardise product labelling and descriptions. Understanding the carbon footprint of products is equally essential but not an immediate priority – more important is material components and knowing a vendor’s net zero ambitions.

W360: What are the potential advantages of standardisation and more user-friendly data?

AH: When a product is labelled as ‘eco’, it’s crucial to provide a clear definition of what this means. One aspect often overlooked is the end-of-life options.

Accurate data allows us to educate clients on product differences, especially as no one really wants to buy items that can be 20% more expensive. Having said this, for me, it isn’t just crunching data. It’s about advocating for environmentally friendly products and sharing the compelling backstory with clients.

W360: What role do wholesalers need to play in your view?

AH: Wholesalers must act swiftly and approach this matter with utmost seriousness. Their responsibilities mirror those of the manufacturers – implementing net

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REDUCTION IN SCOPE 1 AND 2 EMISSIONS BY 2030 – SBTI TARGET

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SUSTAINABILITY SPOTLIGHT – RED-INC

zero programmes and providing essential data as well as addressing logistics and packaging. I sit on the steering group for Exertis Supplies, and while some manufacturers have joined, broader representation from all industry sectors is needed.

For me, sustainability is about future-proofing our businesses so all players can adapt and thrive in an everevolving world. As dealers, we can ill afford to dismiss this as irrelevant.

W360: How are customer perspectives evolving?

AH: We conduct quarterly reviews with our clients, incorporating their purchasing data to empower them to make informed product decisions. We don’t claim to possess all the answers, and not every product on offer is inherently environmentally friendly, simply because the market hasn’t demanded it.

However, our reporting options allow customers to align their purchases with specific sustainability goals.

This approach is instrumental in identifying who is genuinely committed to net zero, as opposed to those who may regard it as merely a box-ticking exercise.

W360: When Red-Inc considers a new supplier or product, do you conduct a sustainability assessment?

AH: Carrying out a sustainability assessment poses a challenge for us, primarily due to our limited resources and position in the supply chain. It is an area where wholesalers can fulfil a crucial role. Collaboration is key, as Red-Inc doesn’t have the clout to drive change alone; we’re small fry.

I’m repeatedly asked why I share my strategies with other dealers. The truth is, there are no real ‘secrets.’

Red-Inc may be ahead of the curve, but there’s no harm in assisting others in getting started. It feels like a responsibility worth shouldering.

W360: I want to go back to B Corp as we’ve only chatted about this briefly. What impact has it had on your company?

AH: A fantastic question and I’ll be completely candid.

Becoming a B Corp was a pivotal moment in my career.

Back in 2014, Red-Inc was in the doldrums. There was a drive to instigate change, but being a small business, it often felt like our efforts went unnoticed. At times, I would even question if my vision was feasible.

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B Corp reinvigorated my passion for what we do, and the credibility of being a B Corp has positively influenced how Red-Inc is perceived by clients, contributing to meaningful growth.

W360: Obtaining B Corp certification is reputedly pretty hard.

AH: To become a B Corp is fairly brutal and requires you to turn your business upside down and inside out, leaving no room to hide. It demands the running of a really great company. The beauty of being a B Corp lies in the fact it provides a roadmap and a toolkit for a wide array of initiatives you might not have known existed. It encourages a deep dive into the five pillars of governance, workers, community, the environment and customers.

In reality, from the beginning, Red-Inc embodied B Corp values; we just hadn’t realised it. Suddenly, it felt like we belonged somewhere, a feeling not experienced before. As I began to meet CEOs, environmental managers, and a diverse range of individuals associated with other B Corps, it became evident there were people who truly valued what we were offering.

W360: Any words of wisdom on how to best approach sustainability?

AH: I think the best piece of advice is for people to understand just how fast the pace of sustainability is accelerating. Relying on the excuse that you only deal with local companies and therefore don’t need to consider carbon footprints and Scopes is no longer good enough. In our sector, many companies are still in the early stages of their journey, presenting a unique opportunity to assume a leadership position.

Invest in upskilling staff and learn what it takes to truly embody sustainability.

There’s equally good commercial value in this endeavour, although I’d like to see people shifting away from the notion that success is becoming a £10 million dealer and instead focus on being a good business which prioritises steady growth. It’s taken years of dedicated effort, but in the 2022/23 financial year, Red-Inc experienced a remarkable 40% uptick in sales against pre-COVID figures.

While we could pursue higher profits, redirecting a portion of them back into the community not only resonates with people but also draws them towards our mission. In turn, this attracts the right talent – a vital aspect in an industry considered unsexy.

Recently, for example, I hired two young individuals who were interested in Red-Inc because of our B Corp status and the impact we’re having.

W360: Final question. What are your future plans?

AH: Our plans largely revolve around continuing what we’ve always done. Despite operating somewhat under the radar, we have the privilege of collaborating with some of the UK’s largest companies. I’m dedicated to constantly pushing boundaries and using our story to inspire others.

If even one person is motivated to believe there’s a better approach to conducting business, it would be immensely satisfying.

PREVIEW – AMBIENTE WORKING 2024

Building

momentum Messe Frankfurt has made strides in addressing last year’s Ambiente Working issues

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mbiente Working had a difficult first outing in 2023, it would be fair to say. It was a new concept following the decision to axe Paperworld, with many vendors and buyers adopting a ‘wait and see’ attitude before committing their attendance.

In addition, the ‘Working’ area was confined to a portion of Hall 4.2 alongside suppliers in the retail stationery trade. This certainly didn’t help to create a sense of identity for specialists in the B2B channel.

Messe Frankfurt listened to stakeholders and addressed some of the shortcomings. A key development for Ambiente Working 2024 has been the shifting of business products and technology vendors to their own space in Festhalle 2.0 and neighbouring Forum 0. The new layout has attracted 90 exhibitors, with the whole Ambiente floor space now sold out.

The office and stationery sector will be back “in full force” in 2024 MAKING CONNECTIONS The trade show organiser has also given fresh impetus to its relationship with German trade association PBSMarkenindustrie. It has resulted in an expanded ‘Office Heroes’ exhibition area which features companies such as Durable, Maul, Novus-Dahle, Sigel, edding and tesa.

Other exhibitors include Acme United, Hopax, Luxor, Monolith, T3L and Zebra Pen, although readers will note

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the continued absence in Frankfurt – officially, at least – of the likes of 3M, ACCO Brands, Fellowes Brands and Newell Brands.

Messe Frankfurt is highlighting the idea of a Working “cosmos”, with easy connections to adjacent product groups in different parts of the exhibition centre.

Creativeworld is located in neighbouring Hall 1, for example, the Future of Work plus the Office Design & Solutions spaces are on the east side of Hall 3.1, while stationery and education vendors can be found in Hall 4.2.

Former Paperworld stalwarts will recall heading to Hall 10 to find suppliers from Asia and it will be a familiar experience for them next year, with the ‘global sourcing’ section for office and stationery installed in 10.0.

CREATING SYNERGIES A key component of the Future of Work area will be a set of four wooden dome constructions designed by German firm MTTR Architekten + Stadtplaner. Each of these futuristic domes houses a different theme, based on the idea of ‘new work’: socialise, collaborate, concentrate and educate.

Furthermore, a Future of Work Academy will be held during the five days of the show. Taking place in Hall 3.1, stand B10, the programme will see industry experts discussing current trends and the latest developments in the working world of tomorrow. One day will be devoted to Sustainable Office Day, held in collaboration with German environmental organisation BAUM. Yvonne Engelmann, Director of Ambiente Living, Giving and Working, asserts that the office and stationery sector will be back “in full force” in 2024.

This, in addition to attracting suppliers which offer smart furnishing solutions, “makes synergies with living, interior design and [the] contract business even more tangible” in an era of hybrid working.

She said: “A very heterogeneous visitor target group […] will find concentrated inspiration in Frankfurt when it comes to furnishing and equipping contemporary workplaces or public spaces.”

Perhaps this remains to be seen, but all the indications are that the Working component of Ambiente 2024 – which takes place from 26-30 January – will be a step up from last year’s show.

Scope for more

INSIGHT - SCOPE 3

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Scope 3 arguably deals with the biggest source of GHG emissions as well as being the hardest to reduce. Planet Mark’s Jonathan Withey highlights how companies can first measure and then reduce emissions in this scope

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chieving net zero single-handedly is impossible for any organisation. Every stage of the supply chain contributes to the overall carbon footprint. Working towards net zero, therefore, requires companies large and small to pool together – to measure their carbon footprints, put in place carbon reduction initiatives, and collaborate to drive net zero into the business infrastructure we all depend on.

We’ve been perfecting this process at Planet Mark over the past decade and have developed five key principles for tackling supply chain emissions.

But first, it’s important to clearly define what Scope 3 is and why it is vital for businesses to manage. The Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol has defined three different scopes. These identify the source of emissions as follows: Scope 1 Emissions from sources that a company creates directly, for instance from burning fuel in gas boilers and company-owned vehicles.

Scope 2 Emissions a firm creates indirectly, associated with the production of energy it purchases, such as electricity and steam, which are produced outside a company’s direct control.

INSIGHT - SCOPE 3 Scope 3 Emissions not produced by the organisation itself, but by those within its value chain: staff commuting; waste generated by the company’s operation, production and transportation of raw materials; and the use and disposal of products and services by customers. Scope 3 is split into 15 distinct categories. It often represents the greatest proportion of a firm’s carbon footprint – sometimes up to 90% of total emissions.

By measuring Scope 3 emissions, organisations can gain a good understanding of their carbon footprint. This, in turn, enables opportunities for radical decarbonisation as well as enhanced commercial resilience. Supply chain transparency, energy efficiency and cost reduction potential, supply chain engagement and risk mitigation to future-proof your business are all part of the equation.

With the climate clock ticking, reducing Scope 3 emissions has become a top priority for organisations globally, especially those that have committed to net zero. It’s a challenging problem to solve, given the complexity of global supply chain networks. And, as mentioned, with Scope 3 representing such a large part of a company’s carbon footprint, it’s easy to see why this is a tough nut to crack.

COLLABORATIVE EFFORTS Many businesses are now entering an era of cooperation to reduce their Scope 3 carbon emissions by identifying new solutions, enhancing knowledge, sharing best practices, and driving collective action at systemic and industry levels.

A collaborative mindset will allow them to accelerate the progress of existing partnerships and create new ones where gaps need to be filled. Having visibility into your supplier base is crucial for businesses to take proactive measures. Why? • It allows you to make informed choices about how and where to allocate your resources to deliver maximum impact.

• It empowers your supply chain officers and procurement leaders to implement responsible purchasing practices throughout the organisation, ultimately leading to significant reductions in upstream Scope 3 emissions.

• It uncovers various opportunities for your company to enhance brand value, extending beyond emission reductions to create an efficient, resilient, costeffective and customer-centric supply chain network.

With the right combination of visibility, actions and collaboration, any business can reach its sustainability goals and accelerate decarbonisation. The five key principles to engage your supply chain are: 1. Define your baseline Collecting data on current emissions from the supply chain serves as a foundation for measuring progress.

It provides a starting point for identifying emission hotspots and setting realistic reduction targets.

Without accurate data, it becomes challenging to track progress and evaluate the effectiveness of emission reduction initiatives.

With the right combination of visibility, actions and collaboration, any business can reach its sustainability goals and accelerate decarbonisation

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INSIGHT - SCOPE 3

By the same token, if they have great ability A common challenge is not fully already, you can learn from their expertise and identify understanding the maturity, potential areas for collaboration or joint investments in projects. knowledge and current activities reduction On the ‘opportunity’ front: the processes that of your suppliers guide our decisions and behaviours are influenced by During this process, supplier trust is a significant factor to consider. Often, suppliers are unsure how their data will be used and may worry about potential penalties or loss of business if their responses are deemed unsatisfactory. It is vital for your team to be open and transparent and communicate that data collection is part of an ongoing process and journey, benefitting both your company and its suppliers.

By understanding their baseline, you can develop strategies to provide support. This approach is crucial for building meaningful and long-term relationships.

2. Map and segment Supplier mapping allows you to understand and target operators that have the biggest influence on your supply chain impact and identify what they need to do differently. By locating and understanding the various suppliers in the chain, your business can effectively prioritise your engagement efforts and develop specific strategies for emission reductions.

One approach does not fit all. A common challenge is not fully understanding the maturity, knowledge and current activities of your suppliers. By appreciating their capabilities, opportunities and motivations, you will be in a much better position to set realistic and achievable goals.

As regards ‘capability’: do your suppliers have the knowledge, skills and abilities to reduce their carbon emissions? If they don’t, organisations like Planet Mark can provide training, workshops and resources to enhance suppliers’ skills in measuring, managing and reducing their carbon footprint effectively.

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planning, beliefs, desires and incentives. You may want to consider creating opportunities for your clients and suppliers by implementing sustainable procurement policies, offering incentives for emissions reduction, and integrating environmental considerations into supplier selection criteria.

GLP, a global market leader in logistics real estate, offers complimentary Planet Mark Property Certification to its tenants for two years to drive down carbon emissions and encourage its customers to work more closely with GLP on their journey to net zero.

By reducing barriers, aligning incentives and fostering a supportive environment, you can empower your suppliers to embrace sustainable practices.

Lastly, ‘motivation’: this comprises factors which make action and behaviours possible, such as ease, accessibility and availability. It is important to understand your suppliers’ motivations, attitudes, values and perceived benefits to create good engagement strategies.

This may involve highlighting the economic benefits of emissions reduction, showcasing leadership potential or appealing to suppliers’ commitment to CSR. Implementing anonymised supplier benchmarking, for example, enables them to assess their performance relative to peers or competitors. This process can serve as a source of motivation for suppliers, as they can see where they stand and recognise areas for improvement. Armed with this information, they can approach the leadership team and highlight the importance of enhancing their performance.

INSIGHT - SCOPE 3 3. Collaboration and support Once you have a clear understanding of the maturity level of your suppliers as well as the interventions that will make the most significant impact, you can develop a well-informed engagement programme to invite them to join you on the journey. It’s important to emphasise this is a shared endeavour. It’s not only about your company’s progress but also about collectively working towards a more resilient future.

By fostering a sense of shared responsibility and building strong partnerships, you can collaborate with your suppliers to achieve sustainability goals.

4. Get the conversation started Initiating a discussion about climate with suppliers will provide an opportunity to directly communicate expectations. It’s vital you clearly articulate your commitment to reducing Scope 3 emissions.

By setting ambitious targets and publicly sharing your sustainability goals, you can send a strong message to suppliers about the importance of emission reduction. This can be done through sustainability reports, public announcement events, or by updating your supplier code of conduct to include specific emission reduction requirements.

5. Procurement policies Re-think your procurement policies and procedures and re-write them with sustainability at their core.

This way you will ensure the system is robust, helping to integrate CSR at governance level. Include any requirements in the evaluation of new suppliers and renewal of contracts with existing ones.

Your sourcing team has a fundamental role to play in making your supplier strategy effective. For this reason, the team must be trained on your company’s decarbonisation strategy – their buy-in is fundamental.

RESOURCES & COMMUNICATION Overall, provide tools and resources suppliers with different degrees of maturity on climate issues can leverage to commit and take action towards halving their emissions.

While some suppliers might be on track already to do that, others may not know where to start. Link them to useful public resources and offer ad-hoc support where needed. For example, through Planet Mark, Fora Spaces provided its members with Carbon Clinics – one-on-one meetings with experts to help increase activities for those suppliers with a lower level of maturity in their climate journey.

Regular communication and consistent engagement are key to maintaining momentum and ensuring

continuous progress. Your ongoing communication with suppliers should have three key objectives: 1) reminding them about the actions they can take to reduce their environmental impact; 2) raising awareness and educating suppliers as regards your company’s vision and goals; and 3) inspiring action and encouraging behavioural change among suppliers.

Establish processes for communication – regular meetings, webinars or forums dedicated to sustainability. These platforms allow for the exchange of information and the sharing of success stories. They also provide a chance to address any challenges and explore potential solutions together.

Establish processes for communication – regular meetings, webinars or forums dedicated to sustainability TRACKING PROGRESS Finally, define a clear process to track supplier climate performance at least annually, leveraging both disclosures requested directly from them as well as from publicly reported indicators. This provides insights into how specific efforts with select suppliers contribute to your wider supply chain climate targets.

A comprehensive approach ensures a holistic understanding of suppliers’ overall climate performance. With this information available, you can gauge the next steps and the ongoing dialogue needed, creating further transparency and collaboration.

Jonathan Withey is Director of Transformation and ESG at Planet Mark

Launched in 2013, Planet Mark is now an internationally recognised sustainability certification. To find out more about the organisation – one of only ten official partners of the UN-backed Race to Zero campaign supporting businesses on their net zero journeys – visit: planetmark.com

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HEART OF THE INDUSTRY – CLIMB OF LIFE 2023

Elevating hope

The Climb of Life will return on 15 November 2024 and again be hosted at The Swan Hotel in Grasmere

The 2023 Climb of Life highlighted the collective commitment to advancing crucial cancer research efforts

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n 10 November 2023, the Workplace360 team joined over 100 members from the UK business supplies community to raise money for the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR). Continuing the long-running Climb of Life (COL) initiative – now in its 36th year – industry peers once again hiked some of the most challenging peaks in the UK’s Lake District.

This year’s theme of The Base is Ace – Supporting the ICR from the Ground Up celebrated a return to the spiritual home of COL, the newly refurbished Swan Hotel in Grasmere. Although the area saw torrential rain on the evening preceding the climb, participants awoke to relatively clear skies the next day. Such conditions have only been seen once before in the history of the event, according to veteran climbers.

Nevertheless, warm layers remained a necessity as temperatures at the top of the mountains and towards the end of a long day dropped, with some climbers finishing their descent long after sunset.

Only one week before the team arrived at ‘base camp’, Storm Ciarán had swept across the UK, of course, leaving snow and ice on the peaks of Scafell and Helvellyn. Remaining rainwater, meanwhile, made for tricky terrain when ascending already unsteady rocks.

A NOBLE MISSION The intrepid climbers, as ever, remained positive and kept the charitable cause foremost in their minds. And it’s easy to see why. With a predicted 28 million new cancer cases worldwide each year by 2040, the ICR’s research is crucial to better the odds of prevention, recovery and cure.

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COL organiser Philip Lawson said: “Cancer continues to affect us all, with one in two of us contracting the disease in our lives and all of us knowing someone who suffers from it. Finding treatments that extend lives and keep cancer in check is something humanity should strive for.”

There was a supportive ICR presence at the event, including former CEO Professor Paul Workman who explained 98% of the funds go directly into further research. In addition, the collaboration between the ICR and the Royal Marsden Hospital means developments can go directly from research laboratories into treatment rooms and vice versa.

SURPASSING GOALS Last year’s COL raised approximately £50,000, with climbers keen to surpass this already impressive figure in 2023. And so they did. Thanks to generous donations, the combined monies this year came in at over £71,000.

More than £20,000 of the total came from the Workplace360 team, making it the top fundraiser. Other substantial contributors included Avery, Egan Reid, Hamelin and Raby Estates.

The fundraising momentum continues with COL founder Graeme Chapman MBE announcing the launch of his book, By Thumb to the Lowest Point on Earth.

All sales proceeds from the book will be evenly split between COL and the BOSS Business Supplies Charity (read news story on page 10 for more details).

Since its inception, COL has raised over £1.94 million and with the £2 million mark in sight, Lawson confirmed the event would be back in 2024 for a “landmark year”.

THOUGHT LEADERSHIP - MARK HEATH

Investing in growth Exploring diversification, sustainability and technology

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hen we talk of a business investment, what do we mean?

Beyond financial concerns, I believe for most people it means machinery, vans, printers, computers, a new website, or marketing support. But what about training, strategy workshops, away days, or, dare I say it, industry events? Who would classify them as an investment?

The Office Power Growth Summit roadshow – encompassing events in London, Leicester and Manchester – has come to an end. We brought together the sector in a series of summits, hoping to stimulate the growth debate within the industry. Senior leaders were asked to invest their time, contributing to and learning from discussions led by fantastic speakers and insights from dealers driving their businesses forward.

Topics spanned from contract work and the importance of brand and technology to attracting talent and more. The real measure of success, however, lies in what happens next, not just for attendees but for the channel as a whole. While I still might be basking in a post-event glow, I am optimistic we have what it takes to thrive.

Diversification – cuts both ways Our first roundtable explored whether diversifying your product or service offerings is the ultimate strategy for growth or if it’s a risky move that dilutes your brand. At the heart of business growth lies the concept of

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diversification. As highlighted by numerous dealers and their respective groups, it can be a significant opportunity to enhance their brand and offer adjunct services. It often involves branching into areas adjacent to the core product, like furniture or managed services.

This approach can lead to expanded customer segments and increased revenue streams.

However, diversification carries inherent risks.

The primary challenge is credibility: can companies realistically compete against more established players in new domains? Do they possess the requisite expertise and reputation to sell offerings effectively? Furthermore, diversification strategies may initially be loss-making and require total commitment. This approach demands careful planning and a nuanced understanding of different market dynamics.

Further discussion surrounded how to minimise risk – either through hiring or acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary – capping off a super interesting roundtable at every event.

Sustainability – more than just a buzzword The second roundtable discussed the impact of sustainability initiatives. Are they a longterm investment for good, or do they pose predicaments that affect profitability?

Sustainability emerged as a critical theme across multiple tables. It’s not just about embracing green practices but also how they are communicated and integrated into the business

THOUGHT LEADERSHIP - MARK HEATH

Office Power’s Growth Summits have come to an end, and we have collected views from dealers, wholesalers and manufacturers. These events brought together a slice of the industry to think collectively about how we all prosper.

To further this aim, we want to open the conversation to everyone, as each of us has a vested interest in growth. Taking the feedback from the roadshow, Office Power is launching an industry-wide Growth Survey.

Your insights matter. Help us shape the future of the business supplies sector by participating in this survey. We will collate and share the detailed results with all who took part and provide an overview for everyone to read.

The survey can be found via the Office Power website – officepower.net.

model. As pointed out by industry figures who focus on the topic of the environment and CSR, our sector needs to challenge the market norms and realise that sustainability is no longer optional but essential.

Understanding client expectations on sustainability was emphasised. There’s a first-mover advantage in this space, but organisations must navigate the fine line between genuine sustainable practices and greenwashing. Sustainability can also lead to cost reductions and attract talent passionate about environmental causes.

It’s not just about financial outlays but also strategic investments in diversification, sustainability and technology On top of this, with legislation in this space developing rapidly, dealers may face a situation where they are forced to adapt rather than nudge towards action due to the government’s commitment to net zero.

Technology – the future-proofing element The third roundtable delved into the debate on whether technology streamlines operations and boosts efficiency or if it becomes a cumbersome expense that hinders progress. Expenditure in this area is seen as a key driver for futureproofing businesses. The roundtable discussions

underscored the importance of investing in vertical-specific technology. If executed well, such investments can reduce operational friction, lower costs, and enhance customer experience.

However, the transition to new technologies is not without its issues. The risk of chronic disruption, a lack of in-depth knowledge and the danger of putting all eggs in one technology basket were cited as significant concerns. There’s also the matter of recruiting the right talent, especially when technology initiatives extend beyond the industry’s traditional scope.

A balanced approach to business investment The Office Power Growth roadshow roundtables demonstrated that the path to growth is a multifaceted endeavour. It’s not just about financial outlays but also strategic investments in diversification, sustainability and technology.

Each area offers unique opportunities for growth and innovation but also comes with challenges and risks.

The key lies in balancing these elements, understanding market dynamics and aligning funding strategies with long-term goals and industry trends. As the discussions revealed, the success of such investments will largely depend on the ability to adapt, innovate, and truly commit to these strategic directions.

Mark Heath is Managing Director at Office Power

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CATEGORY FOCUS - BREAKROOM

Make or break Updating breakroom facilities may be the answer to attract and keep a new generation as well as a way to entice people back to the office. By Kate Davies

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ccording to UK law, employees are entitled to a single uninterrupted 20-minute break during their workday. In an office, this is ordinarily a much longer period of time, making breakrooms a crucial aspect of such environments.

Post-COVID, doubts arose regarding the relevance of a dedicated area for breaks, especially since 85% of UK office workers, as reported in the 2021 Census, expressed their preference for a hybrid working model.

Restoring pre-pandemic habits hasn’t been a quick fix and company attitudes towards hybrid and remote working are constantly evolving. A 2023 survey conducted by recruitment agency Hays UK & Ireland, encompassing 15,000 employers, revealed that 24% foresee changes in their hybrid working arrangements, anticipating a shift towards more in-office attendance over the coming year. While it’s not an easy task to tempt people back to the workplace, certain incentives can be instrumental.

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Notably, suppliers in this category have observed the redesigning and even repurposing of office space to render traditional breakroom settings more appealing. Advantia Managing Director Steve Carter predicts this trend will continue through 2024, adding: “Employers have realised that having a kettle, a microwave and a sink tucked away in a corner doesn’t cut it any longer, prompting them to become more adventurous.”

HIGHER EXPECTATIONS Updated breakrooms offer a compelling draw, not only for luring back former staff to the workplace but also for captivating the attention of new generations entering the professional sphere.

Nemo Office Club Marketing Manager Alan Calder explains this shift: “The breakroom has become more important as businesses continue to seek ways to not only incentivise the return to the office but attract new talent from a generation that has higher expectations of

of UK consumers would pay a small carbon tax on a snack to offset the environmental impact of making it Source: Global Consumer Snacking Trends Study 2022

Successful dealers don’t just sell product; they sell solutions and imaginative ways of creating the right work environment for employees 30

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CATEGORY FOCUS - BREAKROOM the business environment and demand greater flexibility when it comes to remote working.”

For the latest generation, Gen Z, their initial exposure to the workplace either involved immediate homeworking experiences or just brief encounters with conventional setups. As a result, they have become disillusioned by such workspaces, according to a poll

by Gallop. The global analytics and advisory firm found 54% of Gen Z employees are “not engaged at work”, necessitating more innovative incentives to motivate office attendance as well as encourage long-term commitment to an organisation.

Central to Gen Z’s priorities and a growing factor affecting wider workplace dynamics is mental health.

As indicated by the Health and Wellbeing at Work survey conducted by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development in August 2023, poor mental wellness is the top cause (63%) of long-term absence as well as being the third main reason (39%) for short-term leave.

Meanwhile, the study – based on UK data – revealed supporting mental health is the primary focus of wellbeing activity. In fact, companies are exploring ways to help their employees as the research shows over three-quarters (78%) of organisations are taking steps to identify and reduce stress.

MORE THAN A BREAKROOM Looking after employee mental health isn’t about increasing salaries or offering additional holidays; it can be addressed by reducing staff burnout and ensuring they have enough time and space for a restorative break.

Calder corroborates this notion, highlighting how dealers in the breakroom category are beginning to see their role expand to encompass not just physical amenities but also aid for mental wellness.

Real estate consultancy firm Knight Frank has identified spaces which have been purposefully designed to boost employee wellbeing through positive breaktimes. For example, the firm highlights several London offices with areas acting as breakrooms where facilities range from ‘library rooms’ for screen breaks to relaxation pods with hanging swings, and fully-equipped gyms running exercise classes.

Another effective method of promoting relaxation and job satisfaction is the introduction of nature into the breakroom. Many studies have shown there are plenty of benefits of biophilia in the workplace. Plants and greenery can enhance mood, creativity, productivity and air quality, and improve the overall health and wellness of staff while reducing stress.

Calder continues: “Successful dealers don’t just sell product; they sell solutions and imaginative ways of creating the right environment for employees. It’s a totally new form of selling because if the customer is truly buying into the concept, budget is no longer the main driver in the decision-making. This generates good opportunities to upsell.”

It’s evident some form of flexible working will persist for years. Yet, this is not the bad news suppliers might have feared, contrary to initial concerns when COVID altered the playing field.

Some employers have repurposed the office space and created mini-gyms, wellbeing areas, prayer/faith rooms or put in table tennis, dartboards, table football and pool tables Carter says: “If there are fewer people in the workplace on a daily basis, it stands to reason extra space can be used for breakroom or recreational purposes, which makes it more appealing to employees when they’re on-site.

“Some employers have repurposed the office space and created mini-gyms, wellbeing areas, prayer/faith rooms or put in table tennis, dartboards, table football and pool tables.”

Such areas are suitable for more than the traditional breaktime, with Nestlé Professional reporting the benefits of taking ‘micro-breaks’ at work. Citing research from the West University of Timisoara in Romania, Nestlé explains that breaks between five to ten minutes reduce stress and strain on the body, enhancing concentration and leading to better performance.

MULTIFACETED DESIGN Engaging in activities such as a quick game of table tennis takes people away from their desks and occupies their minds, allowing them to go back to their tasks refreshed. In addition, Calder notes that breakrooms are increasingly used for meetings and brainstorming sessions, offering respite from the distraction of multiple screens and eliminating the isolation formed by individual workstations.

“To achieve this multifunctional space, the choice of furniture has become key, including the introduction of meeting booths and soundproof rooms. Transparent booths have also become popular,” he continues.

There is not a one-size-fits-all scenario for breakrooms, however. Calder warns the remodelling of underutilised areas will vary depending on each business’s type and especially its size. “At one end of the spectrum, you have the likes of Zoom offering free meals and comfortable dining areas as part of the plan to get people back into the office. But there will always be others taking the opportunity to cut costs on rented space.”

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CATEGORY FOCUS - BREAKROOM

Another development gaining momentum over the past year is the demand for ‘resimercial’ designs.

First talked about in the late 2010s, resimercial refers to the practice of infusing residential design into the commercial workplace. Due to working from home, people have grown accustomed to creature comforts and employees now want more than the cold, stark atmosphere of pre-COVID breakrooms.

Shedding light on the topic, Carter explains the resimercial requests Advantia has received: “They tend to be for more soft, comfortable furnishings than you would have historically expected to see. Homely fabrics, textures and colours are being utilised rather than the greys and royal blues we’ve been used to.”

However, achieving a successful resimerical design requires a delicate balance between residential comforts and ergonomic needs, according to architecture firm Ted Moudis Associates’ Studio Design Principal Jeff Knoll. “The biggest consideration when merging these styles is ensuring the office still functions primarily as a workplace. Any residential aspects that are incorporated must be flexible enough to be comfortable, but also satisfy ergonomic needs for long-term use and integration of technology,” he says.

Unquestionably, the durability of breakroom furniture is another crucial factor to consider. Unlike home settings, communal spaces in offices experience significantly higher foot traffic and not all soft furnishings are equipped for long-term, regular use.

THE HEALTHY CHOICE It’s a known fact that breakrooms can play a pivotal role in enhancing wellbeing through the provision of healthy options. In addition, Nestlé Professional emphasises the correlation between productivity and providing food and drinks which represent the diverse communities company personnel belong to.

Any residential aspects that are incorporated must be flexible enough to be comfortable, but also satisfy ergonomic needs 32

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82%

of consumers wish more snacks had biodegradable packaging Source: Global Consumer Snacking Trends Study 2022

Says Nestlé Professional: “When employees feel a sense of belonging, they are more motivated and productive. Promoting diversity and an inclusive work culture not only boosts staff happiness but it can also open them up to new ideas and perspectives which can be seen in the increased quality of work they produce.”

As of 2022, 48% of adults in the UK have been drinking plant-based milk alternatives, making them a necessity in the breakroom. Failing to provide these means staff may have to pay for them or miss out on the coffee break, resulting in missed sales for dealers.

Despite the enduring popularity of coffee, there has been a change in the complexity of caffeinated drinks desired. “A tin of Nescafé has always been a top seller for dealers, but over the past 12 months the demand for fully functional, plumbed-in coffee machines has become evident,” says Calder.

Furthermore, employees continue to be mindful of nutrition when eating at work, with over half (55%) of UK consumers checking the relevant labels before purchasing snacks, according to the 2022 Global Consumer Snacking Trends study.

The survey also revealed people are influenced by sustainability when making their selection, with 64% willing to pay more for food which is “better for the environment”. For example, if the packaging is recyclable or contains ethically sourced ingredients. Reducing waste was a top priority for surveyed consumers, with seven in ten stating they prefer snacks with less packaging and nearly three-quarters (72%) “typically” recycling it.

STRONG FUTURE Breakrooms are no longer just about grabbing a fiveminute timeout to make a coffee. The space they occupy serves several purposes and adds to the overall success of a company. How employers achieve this function is rapidly evolving, so it’s never been more important to stay up-to-date with trends – whether it’s popular catering options, installing entertainment features like table tennis or even resimercial furniture.

One area dealers must have on their radar is how the breakroom can cater for the wellbeing of employees.

Knight Frank identified the most expected ‘perks’ are all related to wellness, including healthier food and beverage offerings, gym and changing facilities and utilities that support mental health.

For organisations preparing for the future, ensuring employees have access to such resources should certainly be high on the agenda. Dealers can therefore be optimistic about the category. As Calder outlines: “It’s all about the benefits the space brings to employee wellbeing and productivity.”

“I can’t express enough how grateful we are; your help really makes a difference. The cost of living is crippling everyone, especially when utility bills are so high. Thank you to all who make the grants happen.

Words can’t describe how we feel.”

BOSS Charity beneficiary

Merry Christmas and Thank You to all our Patrons, Sponsors and Supporters “We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for all the help you have given us. We really would not have been able to get as far as we have without your financial support at a time when we were so low in our lives. We will be forever grateful.”

BOSS Charity beneficiary

Honorary Patron

Patrons

Connecting the

business products world

REVIEW - BOSS SUSTAINABILITY CONFERENCE

Shaping the future

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Lively presentations and discussions unveil sustainability shifts and demands for comprehensive data

n early November, BOSS held its virtual Sustainability Conference featuring keynote sessions from Coventry Building Society Energy & Sustainability Lead Sophie Mason and Red-Inc founder Adam Huttly. Both companies have achieved immense progress in their sustainable endeavours in recent years. Following on, BOSS Environmental Forum Chair Martin Eames hosted two industry panels.

The first panel How do you provide substantive data behind sustainability claims? involved Kim ThurgoodBrown, Senior Business Development Manager at Exertis Supplies, Philip Wesolowski, Managing Director of Staedtler UK and Sam Shakespeare, Product Manager at Commercial Group.

The second panel, titled What are the challenges of meeting increased customer requirements? featured Julie Hadley, Head of CSR & Social Value at EVO Group, Andrew Bryers, Head of Sustainability at Lyreco UK & Ireland and James Morton, CEO of MBM Group. This discussion focused on topics related to carbon reduction and Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.

ONWARDS AND UPWARDS Mason opened the conference by detailing Coventry Building Society’s impressive sustainability journey, which has been propelled by government policies, heightened public awareness, and increased media attention. She acknowledged the challenge of accurately measuring Scope 3 emissions but remained optimistic about the achievable nature of reaching net zero. Stressing the pivotal role of governance, Mason underscored the necessity of robust leadership and decision-making for sustainable progress.

Huttly then outlined Red-Inc’s vision to revolutionise sustainability in the workplace supplies industry (for an in-depth interview with Huttly, read Leading the charge on page 14). Despite being a small business, the dealer has made tangible strides towards net zero, including offsetting delivery emissions for clients and setting

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targets through SBTi. He highlighted the company’s engagement with the B Corp impact assessment, emphasising its instrumental role in shaping strategy.

Answering a question from the audience regarding certifications like ISO and B Corp, Huttly acknowledged their financial investment but firmly believes the benefits outweigh the costs.

DATA DUMP Next up was the first of the two panel sessions, which as BOSS’s Eames noted, was on the “increasingly thorny issue” of providing substantive data to support sustainability claims. He kicked off the discussion by asking panellists if such data was required by clients and, if so, are those requests increasing.

Commercial Group’s Shakespeare said initially, questions primarily came from larger corporate firms seeking basic details like FSC certification and plastic content. However, there is now a surge in demands for more precise information encompassing CO2 reduction, certifications and product life cycles.

From a manufacturer’s point of view, Wesolowski from Staedtler UK concurred with the rising call for comprehensive environmental evidence. However, he highlighted the challenges of maintaining such data due to rapid innovations and lamented the manual process of providing it. He also spoke about the burden posed by variations in requested information.

Expressing concern about the industry’s poor and inconsistent product information, Thurgood-Brown from Exertis Supplies emphasised the necessity for robust and accurate sustainability data. “It’s no wonder dealers struggle to provide their customers with the right answers; there’s no quality control. This is why Exertis has started from scratch with a new product template which we’re asking our vendors to complete,” she noted.

Shakespeare added that Commercial established its own green product criteria in 2019 and praised Exertis’ initiative as welcome and “really useful”.

REVIEW - BOSS SUSTAINABILITY CONFERENCE

The discussion demonstrated the imperative for enhanced data quality, consistency and accessibility across the supply chain. Collaboration among manufacturers, wholesalers and dealers is crucial to streamline the provision of substantive data and ensure transparency and accountability.

Regarding the issue of greenwashing, there was consensus from the panel, acknowledging that as our sector lags behind others in sustainability, greenwashing isn’t as prevalent – yet. They agreed on the importance of healthy scepticism toward environmental claims, with Wesolowski underlining the need for customers to be more proactive in challenging the veracity of such claims.

industry-wide standards for carbon emissions reporting.

Lyreco’s Bryers suggested that a centralised platform supervised by a third-party organisation could be a potential solution.

Morton flagged three key issues: a lack of resources, unreliable data and the absence of a standardised data collection methodology. However, he noted although customers currently understand the complexities of providing carbon footprint facts, this patience might not endure indefinitely.

STANDARD PRACTICE The final session tackled carbon reduction and Scopes 1, 2 and 3. The view among the panellists was clear: businesses are increasingly seeking information on net zero journeys, including Scope 3 emissions. Notably, enquiries – especially those from the public sector or tenders – are becoming more intricate.

There was unanimous agreement on the crucial need for accurate and full-scale intelligence from suppliers.

MBM Group’s Morton noted that larger clients often engage specialist organisations to ensure detailed data collection, target establishment and sharing of reduction initiatives. As with product data, there was a call for

EVO’s Hadley put forth a thought-provoking perspective, noting that clients sometimes expect an “absolute” on carbon footprints, which doesn’t presently exist. She added: “We’re all making strides, and as long as there is transparency in the calculations and methods used, then we are doing as much as we can given the various guidance from protocols.”

The devil lies in the data. There needs to be a lot more thorough evidence forthcoming, especially on corporate CO2 emissions and the environmental credentials of products. The data needs to be standardised and accessible to everyone, and the only way to achieve this is through industry cooperation.

It’s no wonder dealers struggle to provide their customers with the right answers; there’s no quality control

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ADVERTORIAL - SYLVAMO

Paper pledge Sylvamo advances its commitment to produce paper in the most responsible and sustainable ways

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n a significant stride towards advancing sustainable paper production, Sylvamo acquired Stora Enso’s paper mill in Nymölla, Sweden, earlier this year. This strategic move not only triples Sylvamo’s uncoated paper capacity in Europe but also brings under its umbrella a facility distinguished by its environmental stewardship.

The Nymölla mill, a producer of cut-size papers, business forms, digital papers and offset, boasts two pulp lines and two paper machines and stands out for low CO2 emissions. It seamlessly aligns with Sylvamo’s commitment to producing paper in the most responsible and sustainable ways.

The integration brings together talented teams, iconic brands, low-cost mills in favourable locations and a shared dedication to safety and sustainability. The acquisition also substantially strengthens Sylvamo’s product portfolio and enhances offerings for UK customers.

A TALE OF TWO MILLS Both the Nymölla and Sylvamo’s Saillat mill in France prioritise renewable energy sources and benefit from low carbon grid electricity in their respective locales.

For over two decades, the mills have proudly upheld ISO 14001 certification for their environmental management

Empowering literacy: The REY paper brand and National Literacy Trust collaboration The National Literacy Trust empowers children, young people and adults with the literacy skills they need to succeed and get the most out of life, focusing on all aspects of literacy: reading, writing, speaking and listening. It works in communities across the UK where low levels of literacy are seriously impacting people’s lives.

REY firmly believes in the transformative potential of paper as a catalyst for creativity, learning and personal development. It influences communication and literacy skills, serving as a versatile canvas for creative expression and playing a vital role in nurturing essential life skills.

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This mission has become increasingly crucial as evidence mounts of a decline in reading, writing and basic communication skills among younger generations.

The deficiency in literacy and numeracy skills also has a significant impact on national productivity.

Research indicates that, if every child left primary school equipped with the necessary reading skills, the UK economy could experience remarkable growth of over £32.1 billion by 2025.

PROACTIVE PARTNERSHIPS Sylvamo’s UK operations and its REY brand have made a commitment to partner with the National Literacy

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ADVERTORIAL - SYLVAMO

systems as well as fortified their energy efficiency with the implementation of ISO 50001. Both mills bear FSC and PEFC chain of custody certifications and EU Ecolabel paper certifications, with Nymölla also earning the Nordic Swan Ecolabel.

THE COMMITMENT Sylvamo’s environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitment transcends paper production, aptly illustrated in its inaugural ESG Report through the tagline: ‘Building a better future through the promise of paper’.

This pledge extends to fostering the success of the entire ecosystem, encompassing forests, communities and those reliant on its paper.

Sylvamo’s environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitment transcends paper production The company’s ESG strategy is not a standalone endeavour; it is intricately woven into its core business operations, with every department playing a pivotal role in propelling meaningful change. In pursuit of its vision to become the employer, supplier and investment of choice, Sylvamo continues to forge a brighter future for its company and stakeholders.

The progress achieved so far is nothing short of inspirational, marked by a consistent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a shift towards deriving more than 80% of mill energy globally from carbon neutral, renewable biomass residuals rather than fossil fuels.

Trust and key REY distribution partners nationwide. The goal is to enhance literacy skills and emphasise the vital role that paper plays in our daily lives.

Taking a proactive approach to tackling this challenge through the National Literacy Trust partnership, REY has already made a tangible impact on 600 families in Stoke-onTrent. Here, significant progress has been made in narrowing the literacy gap by distributing engaging activity packs through local schools and food banks.

Building on this initial success, 2022 saw the launch of the Comics Rule! Summer Writing Challenge, which was complemented by a wealth of online teaching resources.

Furthermore, 10,000 physical packs were sent to schools conducting

Sylvamo’s pursuit is underpinned by ambitious 2030 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These SDGs chart the course for continuous improvement in three important ways: 1.

2.

3.

Sustainable forest management to ensure healthy and productive forest ecosystems The protection and improvement of the lives of employees and support of communities Responsible operations to mitigate climate impact and safeguard natural resources

As a global producer of some of the UK’s most iconic paper brands – REY, Multicopy, HP Papers and PRO DESIGN – Sylvamo is resolutely committed to the enduring health of the entire ecosystem.

summer catch-up sessions, revitalising writing attitudes and reinforcing literacy proficiency.

Notably, this effort was bolstered by the contribution of REY paper – totalling 150,000 sheets – which provided invaluable resources to the campaign.

The resounding success of the Comics Rule! Summer Writing Challenge culminated in receiving the prestigious European Office Products Award 2023 for Initiative of the Year.

The REY and National Literacy Trust partnership is not only transforming lives but also fuelling the engine of economic growth and productivity. This is helping to pave the way for a more empowered, educated and prosperous society.

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SUSTAINABILITY – ROCK FALL

Rock Fall is making strides in sustainable safety footwear

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n a world where sustainability is a driving force behind innovation, industries are reengineering their processes to leave a lighter footprint on the planet.

Safety footwear, often overlooked in the sustainability conversation, has a trailblazer in Rock Fall.

The UK-based company has undertaken a mission to revolutionise the category, challenging industry norms by infusing recycled and bio-based materials into its safety footwear as well as offering accessories like bamboo socks and USDA Certified Biobased Product anti-fatigue footbeds.

Rock Fall Managing Director Richard Noon emphasised the company’s commitment to this cause during a conversation with Workplace360: “We’re reshaping safety footwear, thinking beyond the product itself and considering its entire life cycle, including disposal. From using recycled laces to regenerative outsole compositions, our safety boots and shoes champion sustainable materials.

“Numerous products carry verification from The Vegan Society and also incorporate recycled plastic bottles, recycled nylon and polyester textiles and algaebased midsoles.”

BACK TO THE DRAWING BOARD Rock Fall’s pursuit of creating more environmentally friendly products stemmed from recognising the mismatch between footwear longevity and the materials used. While certain components endure for decades, safety boots are often replaced yearly. This realisation triggered a fundamental reevaluation.

Why employ materials designed for a century when the footwear won’t last as long? The solution lay in integrating biodegradable elements, such as algae, crafted to decompose in anaerobic environments once discarded in landfills.

This dedicated approach has propelled 90% of Rock Fall’s footwear range into the realm of environmental friendliness. The commitment also transcends product composition; it extends to the product packaging – FSCcertified, devoid of plastics or solvent-based adhesives, and printed with soy ink.

However, it’s not all plain sailing for the company.

One significant hurdle revolves around remodelling its production landscape. Despite intentions to relocate

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manufacturing to the UK, the absence of essential vendors, like outsole rubber makers or leather tanners, poses major obstacles. Importing materials, particularly leather from Brazil, amplifies costs and carbon footprints, complicating the transition.

Yet Noon remains optimistic: “No doubt, we’re about three years away from UK manufacturing. It’s a long-term endeavour, but it’s within reach. Currently, our collaboration with DESMA in Germany, the world’s largest footwear machine manufacturer, involves viability studies and an action plan.”

In the interim, as the team navigates the purchase of a custom-built warehouse, the company remains committed to incorporating eco-friendly features.

Solar power, greywater usage for toilets and dedicated outdoor spaces fostering wildlife and employee wellbeing are on the horizon for the new premises.

We’re reshaping safety footwear, thinking beyond the product FUTURE POSITIVES Looking ahead, Noon highlights the company’s future aspirations in corporate sustainability. This includes ongoing collaborations with entities such as the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and SEDEX (Supplier Ethical Data Exchange), alongside efforts toward net zero commitments via the Worldly Higg Index (Scope 1 & 2) and Positive Planet (Scope 1).

He adds: “Sustainability holds various definitions, but for me, it’s about contributing positively to the environment and the world at large. It’s also smart business. With 95% of our customer base in the industrial sector, working on the largest infrastructure projects on the European continent, environmental credentials now top the list of tender attributes. They want to know what makes us a sustainable company.”

IMO - MICHAEL BOYD-PHILLIPS

running a business, are also an instrumental part of this growing issue.

Collaborative efforts between repair services and manufacturers are helping to mitigate this crisis. CRC, for instance, has fixed over 75,000 printers under warranty for Canon UK over the past 35 years. This figure exceeds 125,000 office machines when factoring in out-of-warranty repairs. With the average office machine weighing 7 kg, it has saved around 875 Mt of e-waste ending up in landfill – this speaks volumes about the impact of repair services.

Professional repair services alleviate the hassle of dealing with vendors for spare parts and repairs Michael Boyd-Phillips is Managing Director of CRC

Repair revolution The multiple benefits of repairing and refurbishing office machines

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n the pursuit of a triple bottom line, which prioritises profit, planet and people – businesses increasingly realise the importance of social and environmental responsibility.

Repairing and refurbishing office machines is a practical way to help achieve these goals, offering substantial benefits on multiple fronts.

While professional repair services, such as CRC, contribute significantly to sustainable endeavours, there is a pressing need to foster partnerships between these outfits, manufacturers and customers. In addition, environmental regulations must encompass office machines such as printers and copiers.

REDUCING E-WASTE E-waste poses a significant global challenge, with a staggering 57.4 million metric tonnes (Mt) generated in 2021, yet less than 20% recycled or reused. The UN aptly terms it a ‘tsunami of e-waste.’ Office machines, which are integral to

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COST-EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS Beyond environmental gains, fixing up office machines presents a solution amid the current cost-of-living crisis. Often, it is more economical to fix or refurbish a machine than to purchase a new one. Quick repairs minimise disruptions, providing crucial savings for firms experiencing budgetary challenges.

Professional repair services alleviate the hassle of dealing with vendors for spare parts and repairs and regularly come with guarantees, providing firms with peace of mind that their investment is protected. Streamlining the mending process can drive operational efficiency, ensuring companies can focus on core activities.

SOCIAL APPEAL Fixing office machines has undeniable social rewards. Customers frequently inform us how happy they are when we mend seemingly obsolete equipment, highlighting the difference it makes to their lives and businesses.

Consumer demand for sustainability is rising, with a recent report from Accenture stating that 83% of people preferred products designed and built sustainably. Organisations that actively demonstrate commitment to the environment attract investors, secure top talent and enhance their brand image.

REGULATORY COMPLIANCE While regulations like the ‘Ecodesign for EnergyRelated Products and Energy Information Regulations 2021’ exist, they currently don’t cover everyday workplace equipment like binders, shredders, printers, scanners, etc.

IMO - MICHAEL BOYD-PHILLIPS

Advocacy groups such as Which? and the Green Alliance are pushing for the extension of these regulations to include other electronic goods like printers, but progress is slow. The Right to Repair – as it’s commonly known – must be expanded urgently to include office machines. Lobbying needs to be done to promote more active cooperation between vendors and repair companies and ensure affordable access to spare parts. Dealers ought to be aware of the requirement to repair and recondition office machines.

FACILITATING PARTNERSHIPS Partnering with dealers that offer repair services can reduce supply chain woes by extending the life of existing appliances. If spare parts cannot be sourced, it’s possible to use replacements from other broken appliances to fix them.

This helps shift away from the prevailing built-in obsolescence model towards a circular economy which aims to produce, reuse and recycle items sustainably for the whole product life cycle.

MEASURING IMPACT All businesses, regardless of size, can drive sustainability by incorporating repair and refurbishment

Partnering with dealers that offer repair services can reduce supply chain woes by extending the life of existing appliances of office equipment into their operations. This practical step not only showcases commitment to environmental responsibility but also establishes it as a KPI. Many SMBs in the UK are already championing greener practices, demonstrating that proactive measures can drive positive behaviour without waiting for extensive regulations to enforce change.

The benefits of fixing and restoring office machines are frequently overlooked. They encompass environmental conservation, cost-effective savings, streamlined processes, positive social effects, regulatory compliance and new partnerships. Companies can actively contribute to the triple bottom line by integrating these practices, promoting sustainability and securing a brighter future for their business.

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REVIEW - OFFICE FRIENDLY CONFERENCE 2023

EMPOWERING

success This year’s Office Friendly Conference inspired delegates with expert insights and dynamic sessions

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he Office Friendly Conference 2023, hosted at Nottingham’s East Midlands Conference Centre in mid-November, boasted an impressive line-up. The agenda was crafted to engage attendees, ranging from an inspiring keynote to a panel of experts covering vital topics. The parallel Pioneer Sales Training Expo, tailored for sales teams, offered significant value to dealers attending the event.

Holly ‘Hurricane’ Tucker MBE, co-founder of Notonthehighstreet.com headlined the event with a captivating session. Renowned for establishing one of the world’s most successful online marketplaces, her work with Holly & Co as well as serving as the UK Ambassador to Small Creative Businesses, she shared invaluable insights on entrepreneurialism, e-commerce and retail innovation.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS Graham Perkins, leading the Pioneer Sales Training Expo on behalf of Dale Carnegie, skilfully connected training to tangible business benefits. He led attendees on a journey from mastering a positive mindset to learning the art of asking the right consultative questions, equipping them with practical skills that are crucial for sales success.

One member delegate commented: “I loved the interactivity of Graham’s sessions. Being out of the business really gives you a chance to reflect and Holly was a true inspiration.”

The expert panel hosted by Workplace360 CEO Steve Hilleard delved deep into the interconnected aspects of people, planet and profit. There were invaluable insights from panellists United CEO Darren Lloyd, EVO Group Head of CSR & Social Value Julie Hadley, Beeswift

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CEO Darren Washbourne and Chris Sellars from Hentons Corporate Finance. The discussion centred on how businesses can thrive while prioritising their workforce and environmental impact.

Talking about the panel session, Compleat Office Solutions Director Paul Hicklin said: “The panel provided a useful insight into what other businesses are doing to reward staff and provided ideas on how to continue to be sustainable.”

The afternoon buzzed with activity as 140+ delegates engaged with over 60 exhibitors, bringing together a multitude of voices and expertise under one roof.

A highlight of the conference was the annual awards ceremony, a platform acknowledging excellence within the Office Friendly community. This celebration was accompanied by possibly the earliest Christmas party yet, infusing a festive spirit into the recognition of outstanding achievements.

OFFICE FRIENDLY AWARD WINNERS • Vendor/Supplier of the Year: CTS Wholesale • Vendor/Supplier Account Manager of the Year: Zena Goodinson • Q-Connect & Exclusive Brands: Laser-Ex • Social Sustainability Award: Heatons • Pioneer Dealer Salesperson of the Year: Neil Allsop • New Dealer of the Year – over £3 million: Paperstone • New Dealer of the Year – under £3 million: Aston & James • Mike Hindmarch Dealer of the Year – over £3 million: United • Mike Hindmarch Dealer of the Year – under £3 million: Laser-Ex

SUSTAINABILITY – GREENWASHING

Decoding greenwashing The Green Claims Code lays out principles for businesses to adhere to when making environmental claims

C

oined by environmentalist Jay Westerveld in the 1980s, the term “greenwashing” encapsulates the deceptive practice wherein companies present themselves as more environmentally friendly than their actual practices suggest. It not only undermines sincere sustainability efforts but also poses a significant obstacle to progress in addressing environmental challenges.

The rise in demand for products and services aligned with values of sustainability has fuelled the growth of the greenwashing phenomenon. The practice has become so rife concerning net zero that the UN has established a High-Level Expert Group to develop stronger standards for net zero emissions pledges.

The group’s Integrity Matters report outlines recommendations for credible, accountable net zero commitments. To operationalise these, UN Climate Change introduced a Recognition and Accountability Framework and a Draft Implementation Plan, enhancing transparency and credibility in climate action. This proactive approach from the UN indicates the global significance of combatting greenwashing.

CHARACTERISTICS OF GREENWASHING A prevalent form of greenwashing involves the use of vague terms such as ‘eco-friendly,’ ‘natural,’ or ‘green’ without specifying how a product or business contributes to environmental improvement. Companies participating in such activity may make exaggerated or entirely false claims, creating challenges in verifying the authenticity of these assertions.

Often, inconsequential efforts are highlighted, diverting attention from more substantial environmental concerns. Misleading tactics may include displaying labels or certifications implying

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environmental friendliness, lacking proper accreditation or failing to align with recognised standards.

SERIOUS IMPLICATIONS In reality, customers may unwittingly support companies with minimal commitment to sustainability, creating a blurred distinction between authentic and deceptive practices. Meanwhile, legitimate ecofriendly businesses may face unfair competition from unscrupulous firms actively engaged in greenwashing.

Furthermore, greenwashing can create scepticism towards eco-labels and certifications, diminishing their effectiveness in guiding purchasers towards genuinely sustainable products and services.

Customers may unwittingly support companies with minimal commitment to sustainability TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY To counteract greenwashing, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) introduced the Green Claims Code – https://greenclaims.campaign.gov.uk – towards the end of 2021 and is addressing misleading environmental claims. In 2022, the CMA focused on the fashion industry, and in 2023, it turned its attention to scrutinising the FMCG market, evaluating the accuracy of green claims related to household essentials.

While the CMA guidance on environmental claims on goods and services primarily targets the consumer market, it also applies to a more limited extent to the B2B market. The CMA is cognisant that many SMBs in the B2B sector are reliant on manufacturer and

GREENHUSHING: THE SILENT RESPONSE In the face of rampant greenwashing, some companies are embracing an alternative tactic known as greenhushing. This approach entails a deliberate restraint in publicising sustainability initiatives, often motivated by fears of potential greenwashing accusations. While greenhushing may seem like a prudent strategy, it can impede genuine environmental progress.

SUSTAINABILITY – GREENWASHING

Make sure you stay

INFORMED

wholesaler information and the legal framework for B2B marketing practices is less comprehensive than B2C. However, “the CMA urges all businesses to act fairly in their transactions with other businesses, particularly where small businesses are concerned.”

The Green Claims Code lays out six crucial principles that businesses must adhere to when making environmental claims. These are: 1. Be truthful and accurate 2. Be clear and unambiguous 3. Do not omit or hide important information 4. Only make fair and meaningful comparisons 5. Consider the full life cycle of the product/service 6. Claims must be substantiated According to the CMA and following the guidance of the above principles, when making a green claim, a business should be able to answer ‘yes’ or agree to each of the following statements: 1. The claim is accurate and clear for all to understand.

2. There’s up-to-date, credible evidence to show that the green claim is true.

3. The claim clearly tells the whole story of a product or service; or relates to one part of the product or service without misleading people about the other parts or the overall impact on the environment.

4. The claim doesn’t contain partially correct or incorrect aspects or conditions that apply.

5. Where general claims (eco-friendly, green or sustainable for example) are being made, the claim reflects the whole life cycle of the brand, product, business or service and is justified by the evidence.

6. If conditions (or caveats) apply to the claim, they’re clearly set out and can be understood by all.

7. The claim won’t mislead customers or other suppliers.

8. The claim doesn’t exaggerate its positive environmental impact, or contain anything untrue – whether clearly stated or implied.

9. Durability or disposability information is clearly explained and labelled.

10. The claim doesn’t miss out or hide information about the environmental impact that people need to make informed choices.

11. Information that really can’t fit into the claim can be easily accessed by customers in another way (QR code, website, etc).

12. Features or benefits that are necessary standard features or legal requirements of a product or service type, aren’t claimed as environmental benefits.

13. If a comparison is being used, the basis of it is fair and accurate and is clear for all to understand.

Workplace360 is dedicated to keeping the business supplies industry informed of the latest developments in sustainability

Visit workplace360.co.uk for more details and to subscribe – it’s FREE

RESEARCH - GREEN THINKING SURVEY 2023

Time for progress DEALER COMMENTS… What could the business supplies industry do better in terms of sustainability?

The inaugural Workplace360 Green Thinking survey polled UK industry members from across all channels to find out the state of play in the world of sustainability and CSR

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he 2023 Green Thinking survey has unveiled a market inclination towards environmentally conscious products in the business supplies industry. Nevertheless, despite the presence of ‘green’ items in current sales, considerable room exists for enhancement.

Promisingly, more than three-quarters of participants have highlighted customers’ clear preference for eco-friendly alternatives, signalling a burgeoning demand for sustainable choices.

The industry appears responsive to this shift in consumer behaviour, with a significant majority acknowledging that the trend towards a ‘sustainable office’ is actively shaping the product mix. Particularly noteworthy is customers’ interest in environmentally friendly options across various categories, namely stationery, office paper, jan/san and education & school supplies.

However, there are discernible areas of concern that require urgent attention.

For instance, there’s a noticeable absence of initiatives regarding packaging take-back schemes and a substantial portion of respondents also lack formal policies addressing e-waste management. Alarmingly, almost a quarter of those surveyed aren’t even familiar with the concept of e-waste. While the majority of results are encouraging, there remains ample opportunity for our sector to significantly elevate its sustainability efforts.

Specifically referring to single-use plastic, are customers asking you to reduce this?

Yes 58% No 42%

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Have you taken steps to reduce your carbon footprint in the past 12 months by tackling your Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions?

Scope 1

Yes 55%

No 45%

Scope 2

Yes 45%

No 55%

Scope 3

Yes 45%

No 55%

• Reduce prices so that environmentally friendly and sustainable products are not so expensive. It deters customers who want to purchase them but don’t have the budget.

• Provide a more cost-effective range of eco products to incentivise usage.

• Move to sustainable packaging as a standard but without affecting RRPs. • Ensure a much broader range of products that meet certified environmental standards.

• Offer more eco-friendly packaging of products as many items are shipped out in non-recyclable packaging and use single-use plastics.

• Move away from minor issues such as single-use plastics and deal with more structural changes like changing to weekly deliveries.

• Listen to customers and help them find ways to be sustainable that are also more economical.

A bit of ingenuity goes a long way, especially in a difficult economic climate – necessity being the mother of all invention!

Are you working towards attaining the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?

Yes, several of them 19% Yes, one or two of them 10% No 55% What are SDGs? 16%

RESEARCH - GREEN THINKING SURVEY 2023

In which categories do customers request more sustainable products?

Do you offer customers packaging that is more environmentally friendly?

Yes, definitely

68%

32%

Safety 3% Peripherals 13% Breakroom 13% Warehousing 16% Office furniture 16% Education/school 32% Jan/san 32% Office paper 48% Stationery 81%

Do you have a packaging take-back scheme?

Yes, all of it 16%

No 100%

Yes, some of it 71%

Do you think the move to the ‘sustainable office’ will transform your product mix? l It

already does l Not in the next few years l It will soon

32% 49% 19%

Do you have a corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme?

Yes 48%

Working on it 39%

No 13%

1-25% - 52% 26-50% - 26% 51-75% - 22%

Are customers asking for more environmentally friendly products?

Not noticeably so

What percentage of your current sales is due to ‘green’ products?

How important is sustainability to your organisation?

Very important 55% Important 35% Not important 10%

No 13%

Do you have an e-waste policy in place for customers and/or your own business?

Yes, for my own business Yes, for customers What’s e-waste?

23%

No 51%

3%

23%

What are the primary influences driving the importance of sustainability in your organisation?

84% It’s the right thing to do 71% Customer expectations 61% Good for the brand 58% Legislation 45% New product opportunities 32% Employee expectations 26% New category opportunities

WORKPLACE360 - DECEMBER 2023

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HEART OF THE INDUSTRY - LOTF CONFERENCE

Build your impact A range of speakers from both inside and outside the industry came together to guide future leaders to success. By Kate Davies

T

he latest BOSS Leaders of the Future (LOTF) conference gathered young and budding members of our sector to mark the 10th birthday of LOTF. A sea of 75 fresh faces converged in the Kimpton Clocktower in Manchester to hear from a particularly energetic keynote speaker and immerse themselves in a series of practical workshops.

Aligned with the day’s theme – Building the best version of yourself: how to succeed while being your authentic, confident self – the workshops were a chance to put the day’s learnings to the test and explore how each strategy could be applied across diverse roles, from sales to finance and beyond.

Opening the conference, BOSS LOTF co-Chairs Rachael Lewis and Alex Stone welcomed members. As both prepare to step down from the Chair position in the early months of 2024, their buzzing personalities and passion will be sorely missed.

KEEP IT REAL Next came the highlight of the event. Keynote speaker Lee Warren marched onto the stage, keen to keep the room engaged with his interactive session. Warren boasts several strings to his bow, including being a former sales director at various global organisations, a professional magician and mind reader, and the awardwinning author of The Busy Person’s Guide to Great Presenting. His speech, aptly titled Connected, Confident and Compelling, certainly delivered in all three areas.

Warren educated attendees on the need to build a wide, mutually beneficial network without losing sight of the values that make each person unique. The key takeaway of the session was undoubtedly “ensuring you’re not just heard, you’re remembered”. Some top tips included the importance of relevance and forming engaging moments with the type of language we use.

Lewis noted: “He provided some very practical guidance to support our community with presenting, networking, and being the best, confident and authentic versions of themselves.”

It was then time for a much-needed coffee break, and with hot drinks in hand, next on stage was YPO

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Finance Director and first-ever female BOSS Federation Chair Julie Hawley. She spoke about her journey through the industry and the challenges a woman determined to climb the ladder may face.

Unsurprisingly, many questions arose around overcoming obstacles on the path to leadership development, which Hawley perfectly summarised: “Put the best version of yourself out there and don’t be defined by your job title.”

An appropriate addition to the day happened during lunch when LOTF members were invited to have a professional headshot taken to help them grow their personal brand within the workplace.

CHOOSING YOUR OWN PATH Continuing the theme of being your authentic self to find success, the conference included four skills workshops. Delegates could choose two from the following list: • How to develop your personal branding – Helen Colton of PPS/inControl Marketing • Stakeholder management: up, down and sideways – Darren Renshaw of VOW Wholesale • Staying true to your purpose and goals versus having the agility to change direction – Peter D’Amery of Viking UK • Resilience when managing change – Ross Jones of Reckitt Each workshop focused on improving leadership in a different way, but the overriding theme was to realise the original factors that make us who we are. As attendees came to understand as the day closed, it’s much easier to simply be yourself long-term; it ensures we’re “remembered” for the right reasons.

FINAL WORDS Thanks to the get-together being jampacked with knowledgeable speakers and plenty of opportunities to put newly taught skills into practice, the day sped past. The event ended fittingly with an ‘on brand’ yellow birthday cake, perfectly rounding off the day before the annual BOSS Awards kicked off only a few hours later (read Winners of the 2023 BOSS Awards revealed on page 50 to find out who won).

HEART OF THE INDUSTRY - BOSS AWARDS 2023

Outstanding Team Effort

New Product of the Year

Wholesaler of the Year

Professional of the Year

Brand Manufacturer of the Year

Winners of the 2023 BOSS Awards revealed There was an air of jubilance and camaraderie at the recent BOSS Awards Outstanding Achievement

Rising Star

Unsung Heroes Sustainable Leadership

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HEART OF THE INDUSTRY - BOSS AWARDS 2023

BOSS Awards 2023 winners Independent Retailer

Dealer Excellence (under £5 million)

Business Leader of the Year

D&I Award

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Service Provider of the Year

Campaign of the Year

he 2023 BOSS Awards showcased excellence in Manchester on 30 November and were a resounding success, attracting a sold-out crowd of about 450 attendees.

Prior to the awards ceremony, the day kicked off with the Leaders of the Future (LOTF) conference, which included a keynote address by Lee Warren and skills workshops (read Build your impact on page 48 for the full LOTF review).

The awards evening was filled with plenty of entertainment, including aerialists and a live band, while the announcement of the 2023 winners was hosted by comedian Hal Cruttenden.

The celebrations carried on as industry members enjoyed a vibrant after-party, with plenty of networking and revelry until the early hours of the morning.

Apprentice of the Year

Dealer Excellence (over £5 million)

• Brand Manufacturer of the Year: Fellowes Brands – 3M: Highly Commended – Reckitt Pro Solutions: Highly Commended • Business Leader of the Year: Aidan McDonough, Integra Business Solutions – Graham Bourton, United UK: Highly Commended – Michael Morgan, Morgan & Morgan: Highly Commended • Campaign of the Year: 3M – Post-it Brand Live Colourful Campaign – YPO, NSPCC campaign: Highly Commended • Dealer Excellence (under £5 million): Supplies Web – Don Ruffles: Highly Commended – Go2 Group: Highly Commended • Dealer Excellence (over £5 million): Langstane Press – Futurform: Highly Commended • Diversity & Inclusion Award: Exertis Supplies – Lyreco UK & Ireland: Highly Commended • E-business Award: Don Ruffles • Independent Retailer: Stationery Supplies • New Product of the Year: BIC UK – Rocketbook – Newell Brands – LetraTag: Highly Commended • Outstanding Team Effort: Avery UK – United UK: Highly Commended • Service Provider of the Year: Prima Software – Haybrooke Associates: Highly Commended – Office Friendly: Highly Commended • Sustainable Leadership: Lyreco UK – Red-Inc: Highly Commended • Wholesaler of the Year: Exertis Supplies – JBGM: Highly Commended • BOSS Apprentice of the Year: Nicola Toikka, Cosmos Solutions • Unsung Heroes: Sian Haskell (Integra Business Solutions), Liz Whyte (BOSS Federation), Andy Knights (ExaClair), Claire Winning (Hamelin Brands), Matthew Ayling (Avery UK), Edyta Kutnjak (Avery UK), Mandalin Farmer (VOW Ireland), Tom Gentry (EVO Group) • Rising Star: Alex Heaps, Nemo Office Club – Jason Jones, Nestlé Professional: Highly Commended – Lewis Evans, VOW Wholesale: Highly Commended – Molly Clarke, Prima Software: Highly Commended • Professional of the Year: Chris Innes, United UK – Richard Smithers, Victor Stationery: Highly Commended – Sarah Laker, Stationery Supplies: Highly Commended • Outstanding Achievement: Phil Jones MBE, Managing Director, Brother UK Congratulations to all the winners

E-business Award WORKPLACE360 - DECEMBER 2023

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BACKCHAT - KIM THURGOOD-BROWN

Find your champion Sustainability, ESG, CSR, net zero, SBTi… language for corporates or a new vocabulary for us all to learn?

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s 23% of employers actively nurture green roles within their business, and four in five workers believe their company has a responsibility to protect the environment, it’s probably safe to assume if customers aren’t already enquiring about your strategy or policy in this area, they will be very soon. The question is... are you prepared?

There are plenty of differing views on social media, with some very public and influential figures frequently voicing their opinions on the topic. However, setting aside the point-scoring for a moment reveals a multidisciplinary scientific consensus on climate change.

This has provided more than sufficient evidence to convince 140+ countries, including the world’s biggest polluters – China, the US, India and the EU – to set a net zero target by 2050 which covers roughly 88% of worldwide emissions.

Over 9,000 companies, 1,000 cities, 1,000 educational establishments, and upwards of 600 financial institutions have joined the Race to Zero – a UN-backed campaign involving a coalition of non-state actors pledging to undertake rigorous, immediate action to halve global emissions by 2030.

CHAMPIONING THE CAUSE It is necessary to play your part in this, but where do you start when even the language of sustainability can be foreboding? Although 2050 seems like a long way away, the sooner you begin, the more in control you will feel and the greater the reward.

Starting the journey can be as straightforward as reaching out to vendors, clients, colleagues and staff.

By stating a commitment to developing a sustainability

Kim Thurgood-Brown is Senior Business Development Manager at Exertis Supplies

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strategy and seeking advice, you may be surprised by the encouraging response. Furthermore, numerous resources are available – including favourable financing – many of which are free of charge and will aid in formulating a plan.

Is this a full-time job? Not necessarily. Before going through the motion of employing someone specifically for this role, engage with your existing team. The chances are, you will find your ‘Champion’ from within.

Better still, that someone will already be invested in the business and all it stands for.

The chances are, you will find your ‘Champion’ from within TAKE CHARGE A Champion can expedite your company’s strategy, guiding you through the necessary stages of a net zero target by: • Taking ownership of this core area and providing management information on a regular basis to continually develop ESG strategies.

• Saving costs for your organisation like reduced energy expenditure and increasing recycling rates.

• Helping to devise policies, providing a positive, proactive message to customers and working with other team members to exploit the opportunities for growth as a result.

• Responding knowledgeably to any customer requests for information and resource surveys.

• Boosting employee engagement in sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and providing a focus for staff. This can lead to increased performance and better team morale.

• Enhancing your reputation locally and nationally as an organisation which invests in environmental and CSR activities.

Determine your Champion, put the business back in the driving seat and start to feel proud for playing a part in safeguarding the planet for generations to come.

EXPOSED! - RACHAEL LEWIS

Do you have any tattoos?

I have three: a serotonin molecular structure, feathers for my mum and swallows. They are bright watercolour designs with dark outlines and all have personal meanings.

Do you collect anything?

I collect special memories and photos of loved ones. My phone has over 30,000 photos and I enjoy printing and gifting them for important occasions.

Rachael Lewis, p Director, OT Grou Sales Operations Proudest accomplishment?

I am very proud of my career journey. My hard work has paid off and I now have the honour of being co-Chair of the BOSS Leaders of the Future Committee.

It is a fantastic opportunity to inspire and support the development of future talent in our industry.

If money was no object, what would you do all day?

Travel. I am passionate about visiting different places, exploring, finding where the locals go, and enjoying the scenery, culture and food! I would also reserve time for creative pursuits like crafting, baking or trying out dinner recipes, preferably while travelling.

What’s something you’ve done that no one would believe if you didn’t have proof?

When I was younger, I became a certified scuba diver.

It’s amazing fun if you get the chance to do it!

Favourite holiday so far?

Choosing one is tough! The Amalfi Coast last year was spectacular, but my favourite is Crete. It was a birthday surprise from my partner and he proposed to me at sunset. It is a stunning island with fabulous beaches – especially the pink sand of Elafonisi Beach – and made all the more special by our engagement.

One of your best childhood memories?

A family trip to Majorca. My brother loves holidays and it was wonderful to go out in his inflatable boat, eat ice cream, visit water parks and take evening strolls by the sea with him. He brings so much joy and happiness wherever he goes, and I have many unforgettable memories.

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What’s something new happening in your life?

I am knocking through my kitchen and dining room, which is a long-awaited transformation into an openplan kitchen. I am so excited as I love having friends and family over for dinner, cooking up a storm and socialising. I definitely need my project management skills to get this over the line though.

What would your superhero power be?

It would 100% be to stop time with someone and spend extra moments in a bubble doing the things I enjoy. And to sleep, work, bake, be creative, make new recipes, read and relax.

Best concert you’ve ever been to?

I was a big Spice Girls fan and got to see them again for The Return of the Spice Girls Tour while at university.

It was really nostalgic. I equally loved Ed Sheeran in concert. More recently, I saw Michael McIntyre’s live show in Brighton; he was absolutely hysterical.

What’s the synopsis for a novel you’d write?

The challenges, joys and hilarious moments of having a brother with Down’s Syndrome – revealing the magic he brings to others and the laughter caused by the things he does.

Tell us a secret that your work colleagues don’t know about you.

I got engaged with a Haribo ring! This was because my partner Chris knew I wanted to choose the ring.

We then bought it in Brighton, returning to the restaurant of our first date while it was resized.