A WARRINGTON-BASED document management firm’s responsibility remit has seen it become part of the Cheshire county elite.
Sharples Group saw off the likes of Chester Zoo and Jodrell Bank to win the Most Responsible Business Practice in Cheshire category at the High Sheriff of Cheshire Enterprise Awards.
Managing Director Mark Brocklehurst collected their prize at the ceremony, staged at Cheshire Racecourse on March 8.
He said: “I believe winning this award proves that our ‘principle before profit’ philosophy is having a very positive impact on our business.
“We care passionately about the impact that anyone coming into contact with us experiences. So we have focused on our people, our customers, the environment and our community and charitable engagement.
“Both David (Griffiths, company director) and I are committed to running our business honestly and with respect for our customers and workforce. We also believe in supporting positive campaigns, charities and communities.”
That support has seen Sharples raise almost £500,000 in the last four years for North West-based charities, in addition to establishing the Sharples Charity Committee which looks for worthy causes to support.
Organisations which have been supported include St Roccos, Brainwaves, Warrington Wolves Foundation and Bolton Lads and Girls Club.
Funds have also been raised through events such as triathlons and a trans-Atlantic rowing challenge, as well as ‘dress down’ and ‘cake bake’ days.
Free printers and other equipment have been provided to a number of charities, while local primary schools have received free, state-of-the-art copiers.
Mr Brocklehurst said: “We talk the talk and walk the walk when it comes down to looking after our planet, that’s why we are an accredited ‘Carbon Zero’ company committed to reducing our carbon footprint.
“We also have a policy of channeling our efforts into our staff so that they can become the best they can be.
“Sharples is an ethical and caring organisation that takes its responsibilities to its team, its customers and community very seriously.”
