Pictured: Cleone Foods' Wade Lyn
Black Country companies looking to boost their sales by doing
business responsibly are being urged to attend a free of charge
breakfast event being held next week (Nov 9th).
The 'Profits v Responsible Business - does there have to be a
choice' conference, which is being backed by Business in the
Community (BITC) and University of Wolverhampton, will aim to show
companies how they can be more profitable by committing to a
sustainable agenda that focuses on respecting people, communities
and the natural environment.
Held at Wolverhampton Science Park, delegates will hear from
Aaron Reid (Responsible Procurement Consultant at Carillion), Dr
Silke Machold (Reader in Governance and Ethics at the University of
Wolverhampton) and Mark Clemson, Managing Director of New World
Solar on what it takes to strengthen supplier partnerships, enhance
brand reputation and to secure and retain important contracts.
There will also be the chance to listen to Cleone Foods' Wade
Lyn on his company's commitment to this approach and how it has led
to him being named the Prince's Ambassador for Responsible Business
in the West Midlands.
"Being a responsible company is not just for the big corporates;
small and medium enterprises have their role to play and also
deserve to enjoy the bottom line benefits that come with it,"
explained David Darlaston, Regional Director at BITC.
"From talking to firms all over the West Midlands it was evident
that there was a huge demand for us to hold events that can engage
with smaller companies that want to know more about what it takes
to be sustainable."
He continued: "Wolverhampton is one of the first events to be
held and we believe the high profile speakers will add a lot of
benefit to local companies. There will also be all the latest
information on the support you can access to do business
responsibly."
Business in the Community, which is the UK's largest and
best-known knowledge network for those involved in responsible
business, has recently launched its first-ever SME membership
package.
This covers three main areas:
• Advice and support (annual strategy meeting, tailored
action plan, guided access to website, media round up)
• Employee Development and Community Impact (participation
in Give and Gain Day, access to quarterly team meetings, support
and added value for community work)
• Profile and Network (access to a 850 company strong BITC
Network, free attendance to member's forums, reduced rate on high
profile events, use of BITC logo communication and regular
updates)
David concluded: "We would urge any companies interested in
corporate social responsibility to join the debate. No matter what
part of the journey you're on, the SME membership offer could add
real value to the way you do business and your bottom line
performance."
Places are limited, so early booking is advisable by contacting
Samerina Sahota on 01902 717491 or samerina.sahota@bitc.org.uk.