Ripple scoops another prize

RIPPLE Developments has won recognition from the Best Companies Awards for the second year running.

The point-of-sale business, which supplies many of the big names on Britain’s high streets from the group headquarters in Greenacres Road, Oldham, was recognised for its engagement with employees.

Managing director David Wolfenden was delighted with the award coming as it does at the end of a difficult year for the business, which has satellite sites in Greenacres and Higginshaw.

He said: “Obviously I am delighted to have won this recognition once again, not just for me but for all the workforce.”

Mr Wolfenden, from Diggle, who helped set up the retail display, communications and interiors specialst 27 years ago, admitted that the last few months had been difficult, adding: “The number of accounts we look after is showing a marked decline, and there has been a severe drop off in activity which meant we had to reduce the workforce, but we remain a substantial employer in the borough and we are committed to our staff.”

Criteria for being a Best Company means going beyond the bottom line, said the organisation’s Jonathan Austin, who added: “It’s about excelling in every area throughout the workplace and an organisation’s commitment to its most important assets — its workforce.

“Focusing on employees brings real benefits such as, improved workplace engagement, better staff retention, reduced recruitment costs and greater financial performance.”

At the end of January, the Ripple Group set up a new stand-alone business, Pebble, which offers a design and build service providing shopfitting projects and interior environments for leading retailers and brands.

Chadderton man Paul Chadwick has been appointed managing director.

Pebble has already completed a fit out for a French company, Baume, at a concession at Harrods, worked at the NEC Birmingham for Ainsley China, and is about to start work on a training centre and museum for Panasonic at its Bracknell headquarters.

Mr Wolfenden said: “Pebble offers the group diversification while using many of the skills we have in terms of creative design, manufacturing and installation.”