In an innovative stride that reshapes the landscape of the printing industry, Handy Brand has taken a bold step by transitioning into an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) scheme. This pivotal move not only signifies a landmark moment in the company’s journey but also highlights a progressive stance on business management and employee involvement.
At the core of Handy Brand, including its divisions Handy Labels and Handy Tags, lies a commitment to delivering superior quality labels, stickers, and tags to a broad spectrum of clients, from budding startups to established international firms. The company’s dedication to excellence and innovation has been the driving force behind its steady growth, even in the face of global challenges. Demonstrating resilience and strategic agility, Handy Brand celebrated a remarkable 40% surge in order volume from 2020 to 2021, underscoring its robust adaptability.
The shift towards an employee-owned model was inspired by Martyn Kilford, Handy Brand’s founder, who acknowledged the critical role his team played in the company’s achievements. By adopting the EOT scheme and granting a 51% share to its employees, Handy Brand has not just provided financial rewards but also vested a share of the company’s destiny in its workforce. This gesture of trust and appreciation recognizes the employees as essential contributors to the Handy Brand success story.
Cultivating an Engaged Workforce
The EOT framework promotes a culture of inclusivity and active participation, where employees are motivated to contribute to the company’s growth and strategic decisions. This approach boosts job satisfaction and loyalty, ensuring that the team’s goals are aligned with the company’s long-term vision. The formation of a trustees board, including staff members, democratises Handy Brand’s governance, guaranteeing attentiveness to the workforce’s needs and ambitions.
Handy Brand’s evolution into employee ownership transcends traditional business strategies, embodying a commitment to a fairer and more sustainable future. By prioritising employee well-being and development, they are redefining corporate responsibility and community involvement.
In summary, Handy Brand’s courageous move to employee ownership stands as a pioneering model for how companies can flourish by valuing their people. It embodies a deep belief in collective effort and shared prosperity, offering valuable lessons for businesses aiming to foster a more engaged, motivated, and empowered workforce.
In weaving the stories of Handy Labels and Handy Tags into the broader narrative of Handy Brand’s transition to employee ownership, we see a company that is not just about printing labels and tags but about building a community, fostering innovation, and setting new standards in the industry.
