WARRINGTON-based document management company the Sharples Group’s new ‘Principle Before Profit’ initiative could be adopted by a growing number of SME’s who would be attracted by its focus on people, customers, environment and the community according to MP Helen Jones.
“Sharples have proved that you can be ethical and successful” she said. “One is not a bar to the other.”
The Labour member for Warrington North was speaking during a visit to the Kingsland Grange HQ of the £3.2 million turn-over, 27 employee business that celebrates its 40th birthday next year.
The MP called in at the Sharples Group offices to discuss the positive impact of the ‘Principle before Profit’ policy with MD Mark Brocklehurst, Sales Director David Griffiths, Financial Director Aimee Timmins and charity representatives Adrian Derbyshire, a former international wheelchair athlete for Great Britain, a hate crime ambassador and disability spokesperson as well as Dave McNicholl, the chief executive of Warrington Youth Club.
During the visit Mrs Jones also congratulated the company on their recently winning the coveted Most Responsible Business Practice Award in this year’s High Sheriff of Cheshire Awards. She said this achievement was proof that Sharples was both an ethical and successful company.
Mark added “Principle-before profit is about people, our staff and our customers in all areas of the business. Getting your staff and customers on-side is crucial for any business. And the best way to do that is to keep them informed and to share the benefits.
“On the environment we talk-the-talk when it comes to looking after our planet,” added Mark, “We are a Carbon Zero accredited company and are always looking to reduce our carbon footprint.“To offset the element we can’t avoid, we donate £50 for every Copier/Printer we supply. This provides a free energy efficient stove to families in Kenya.
“On the home front our clear message is to help customers reduce print wherever possible. We do this by education and rules-based software which encourages users to think before they print.
“We have supplied Eco friendly copiers to local primary schools that allow the toner to be erased so the paper can be reused again and again; this engages our young people with a sound ecological viewpoint at a pivotal age.
“In addition, added Mark, “Sharples has raised more than £500,000 for North West charities in the last four years. We are delighted that both Adrian Derbyshire and Dave McNicholl could be with us today, to represent two of the local charities we are working with.”
For further information about the Sharples Group click onto: www.sharplesgroup.co.uk
Pictured (left to right) Dave McNicholl, Mark Brocklehurst, Adrian Derbyshire, David Griffiths, Aimee Timmins and Helen Jones MP
