A concrete roof tile manufacturer working towards a net zero pledge has come up with a novel way to celebrate staff long service milestones – by presenting them with a patch of woodland.
Burton upon Trent-based Russell Roof Tiles is one of a small number of UK manufacturers to announce a net zero pledge by 2040, 10 years earlier than the Government’s agreed target.
It has teamed up with The Woodland Trust charity to give staff picking up long service awards a quarter acre of managed woodland.
Nine employees – with a combined service of 135 years – are in the latest group to pick up their awards with a sustainable twist.
Managing Director Andrew Haywood said: “I’m hugely proud of the team here at Russell Roof Tiles and it is great to be able to provide them with a gift that also helps us have a sustainable impact in the local community. Congratulations to you all.”
Commercial Services Director Paul McLoughlin, one of the staff to receive an award, said: “Having been back at Russell Roof Tiles for 10 years now and watching the company’s sustainability efforts progress, I think it is a great idea to reflect our legacy in a sustainable way.
“I want to say thank you to Andrew Hayward and to those who organised the woodland gifts for recognising our commitment to the company – it’s a lovely gesture that has been very well received.”
Other award recipients were Operative Paul Ross for 25 years’ service, Assistant Works Managers Andy Iliff and Phillip Bradley, and Regional Sales Director Alan Young, who all celebrated 20 years of service.
A further four members of staff received their long service award in recognition of 10 years of service. They are Yard Supervisor Martyn Clarke, Production Supervisor Ben Cross, Technical Manager Adrian Ryding and Production Supervisor Sean Rogers.
Each employee has received a pack which includes a detailed map of where to find their dedicated area.
The company is set to unveil a new £18.5 million state-of-the-art plant at its Burton headquarters this year which will double output in the most sustainable way.
In January, the company appointed its first Corporate Sustainability and Development Director.