The much coveted regional reward came to the already multi-award winning, employee-owned company for its engagement with staff – judged as a traditional manufacturer going about its business in an untraditional way.
Manufacturer of the iconic Gripple fastener, which has engendered more than 400 products serving the construction, agricultural and viticulture markets, operates a flat and open structure with the aim of encouraging innovation.
The judges were impressed by Gripple’s structure that has generated a culture which makes staff engaged, motivated and creative and not dependent on the founder. Now with 425 staff, sales of almost £40m and celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the company has no HR or buying departments. All staff are required to be shareholders and share in the profits.
Andy Davies, the company’s business development director, added, ‘We don’t do conventional things. What sets Gripple apart is its approach to life. We spend a lot of time working hard but make it fun at the same time.
‘This is an exceptional award – one of the top ones. We are a Yorkshire company and this is a Yorkshire award which means a lot to us.’
