Golden year for centre

A SHAW distribution centre is preparing to deliver a double celebration as it marks a milestone and a top employer award.

The logistics arm of internet and catalogue home shopping firm N Brown Group has been given an Investors in People Gold Standard award, an accolade bestowed to only a handful of IIP accredited companies.

The firm — which includes fashion brands such as JD Williams, Jacamo and Simply Be and employs more than 1,000 people at the site — is also about to commemorate the centenary year of the home of its distribution centre, Lilac Mill, in Beal Lane.

The gold award recognises the company’s recruitment, training and development programmes, including its lifelong learning centre which was set up on site to provide learning and development opportunities for all colleagues.

Mike Suban, human resources business manager for JD Williams, said: “We firmly believe that our success is down to the hard work and commitment of our people and we take great pride in our role as a local employer.

“We strive to provide permanent full-time employment for people, with competitive rates of pay as well as opportunities for personal development and career progression.

“The Investors In People Gold Standard commendation makes it a very exciting year for us. This year is the centenary year of our site in Shaw, so there is already a buzz among colleagues. This is the icing on the cake.”

A series of events have been planned to mark the historic occasion including a charity fun day, a fishing competition and a golf day.