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Welcome, everyone, to this special festive edition of Dealer Support! The decorations are up, the tree is twinkling, and I’ve just placed a rather indulgent order for way too much cheese and crackers from the local supermarket—because isn’t that what this season is all about? Taking time to unwind, indulge and recharge.
With everything that the dealer community has dealt with and overcome this year, I think you deserve it. Whether you’re already winding down or still deep in holiday preparations, we at Dealer Support hope you take a moment to reflect on all your achievements this year.
In this issue, the dealer community shares some festive reflections in our Big Ask, looking back at the year just gone and forward to the year ahead. We’re sharing creative ways for you to engage with your customers over Christmas and exploring how dealers can help businesses set and stick to resolutions for a fresh, energised start to 2025.
As always, our regular contributors Steve Carter and Helen Colton return with some sound advice to consider, and we’ve got sustainability all wrapped up with our guide to ecofriendly workplace parties. From all of us at Dealer Support HQ, we wish you a joyful holiday season and a successful, prosperous 2025. See you in the new year!
As always, we’d love to hear all about your success and to be inspired by stories of resilience and agility. Please do share all your news via LinkedIn and Twitter @dealersupport.
Holly Tinsley Editor
Discover how Tork sustainable hygiene solutions for offices help free up your cleaners’ time, reduce complaints and improve efficiency.
Better hygiene for better workplace satisfaction
Tork.co.uk/OfficeHygiene or Tork.ie/OfficeHygiene
06 THE MONTH THAT WAS News and views from the industry with a festive twist
08 NEWS EXTRA
Celebrating success at the 2024 BOSS Awards
09 AS IF BY MAGIC
Steve Carter reminds us of what the season is all about
10 CLICK IT: BEST OF THE WEB
A seasonal selection of the best content from dealersupport.co.uk
12 THE FESTIVE BIG ASK
Industry experts reflect on year gone and the year ahead
22 TIME TO GET OUT THERE
Helen Colton on the importance of getting face-to-face
23 HELPING MEET SUSTAINABILITY GOALS
How Essity helps customers with accessible and reliable sustainability data
24 JOIN THE RESOLUTION REVOLUTION
Supporting your customers to stick to their goals
26 THE WASTE FREE CHRISTMAS
‘Tis the season for holiday cheer, festive décor, and a mountain of waste
29 FINAL WORD
Wishing you a very merry stress-free holiday
Last Christmas, more than 5,000 children reached out to Childline for support during the festive season, highlighting the critical need for mental health services during what can be a difficult time of year. In response, the NSPCC is gearing up for its annual “Walk for Children” fundraising event on December 21st.
Taking place on the longest night of the year, the “Walk for Children” invites people across the UK to walk 5 kilometers in their local areas to raise vital funds. Registration costs £10, with a suggested minimum sponsorship target of £100 per participant. Whether you join an existing walk or organise your own, it’s a fantastic way for your team to make a difference this holiday season. For more details or to find a walk near you, visit the NSPCC website. https:// www.nspcc.org.uk
ACCO UK is pleased to announce the appointment of two key new roles to support growth plans for both the Consumer & Professional office products & Fine Arts supplies segments. Tom Lewington has been promoted to sales director UK & Ireland and Derwent (UK, EMEA, US & International)
and Martina Alexander has also been promoted to marketing director UK & Ireland and Derwent (UK, EMEA, US & International). ACCO is pleased to support these internal promotions, which will support the delivery of detailed plans to drive growth in these two key market segments.
Britain’s Most Festive Place Named Brighton and Hove has been crowned the most festive city in England! A recent study ranked it as the top spot for embracing the holiday spirit while enjoying outdoor adventures. Brighton placed fourth overall in the search for festive cheer in the UK, however beat Nottingham and Manchester to claim the title of England’s most festive destination.
Jespers of Harrogate got arty with their Christmas display window this year, showcasing a vibrant design created by local artist Christian Alexander Bailey. The display, drawn using Posca pens, was brought to life during November, with customers eagerly speculating on the final design as it took shape.
The unique dinosaur-themed display added a playful twist to the holiday season. Lynn Cummings, manager of Jespers of Harrogate, said: “It’s a great way for us to engage with our customers and collaborate with local artists. We invited people to watch the design unfold as it was being created and they were amazed. It’s something they hadn’t seen before; it really drew people into the store.”
Cloud collaboration provider, Evolve IP, has launched a Tech Breakfast Club to inspire ‘food for thought’ and knowledge – via a series of insights and product development updates. Sponsored by technology partner Cisco, the online initiative includes a free breakfast hamper, delivered to all registered technical team members within their partner community, before every session.
“We want to get closer to the technical teams within our partners who are on the frontline. Often, they get overlooked compared to sales teams and we feel this needs to be better balanced,” says Evolve IP’s solutions director, Scott Rixon.
In an event befitting the season of celebration, the BOSS Federation proudly announced the winners of the 2024 BOSS Awards, bringing holiday cheer to the UK business supplies industry
he UK business supplies industry came together on Thursday, 28th November, for the prestigious BOSS Awards, held at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham. The much-anticipated evening celebrated outstanding achievements across the sector, with winners being announced in various categories. The event was hosted by Debra Stephenson, best known for her acclaimed performances on BBC One’s The Impressions Show.
TEarlier in the day, the Leaders of the Future Conference set the stage for insightful discussions and professional growth. One of the standout moments was a thought-provoking talk on imposter syndrome in leadership, delivered by Angie McQuillin, a
confidence and career success coach. Her session, which offered practical strategies to overcome self-doubt and build leadership confidence, left attendees inspired and motivated as they looked ahead to the new year.
The BOSS Awards wrapped up with lively musical entertainment, as attendees celebrated award wins and partied late into the night. Congratulations to all the winners, whose remarkable contributions and successes reflect the resilience and vitality of the industry - a truly joyful way to end the year.
UNSUNG HERO AWARDS
● Nigel Busby (Incontrol Marketing)
● Austin Coyne (Haybrooke Associates)
● Sarah Findley (Banner UK)
● Gary Fowmes (Avery UK)
Brand Manufacturer of the Year
Leitz Ergo, ACCO Brands
Campaign of the Year
National Stationery Week
Dealer of the Year (under £5 million)
Aston & James
Dealer of the Year (over £5 million)
Paperstone
Diversity and Inclusion Award
Essity
E-business Award
Haybrooke Associates
Independent Retailer Award
UOE
New Product of the Year
Tork/Essity – Natural Colour Washroom
Products
Outstanding Team of the Year
YPO Supply Chain
Service Provider of the Year
Office Power
Sustainable Leadership Award
Lyreco UK and Ireland
Wholesaler of the Year
VOW Wholesale
BOSS Apprentice of the Year Award
George Lloyd, United UK
Rising Star of the Year
Volodymyr Pylypenko, Reckitt Professional of the Year
Linsey Adams, Reckitt
Business Leader of the Year
Tim Beaumont, Nemo Office Club
Outstanding Achievement
Simon Drakeford
● Norman Hind (Prima Software)
● Vikki Smith (VOW Wholesale)
● John Smith (United UK)
● Mandy Wisbey (ACCO Brands)
● Lindsay Wood (Office Friendly)
Now, this is where the magic of Christmas starts for me, but not for the reasons you might think. You see 11 months ago, I put the tree and boxes of decorations up in the attic in the designated area, containing enough products to open a pop-up shop.
As if by magic, the quantity of boxes has grown in the intervening months. I dare not enquire as to why we need additional baubles, light up reindeer or whatever else has been added, I just get on with it.
Having dutifully retrieved all the Christmas paraphernalia and laid it out, I will be quickly dispatched to the local hostelry for a few ales, so that I am not in the way of the military operation that will follow. I tread rather dejectedly through the door, until I am out of sight and the
On
the first day of Christmas, my true love said to me, ‘Can you get up
in the
attic and bring down the tree and boxes of decorations?’
pace quickens up remarkedly. When I return some hours later, the place is like a winter wonderland, to which my contribution was to get the boxes down.
Something that was small to me, meant the world to somebody else
On the second day of Christmas, my true love said to me, ‘People are starting to ask what you want for Christmas, you are so awkward to buy for.’ Not wishing to be a burden on our relatives shopping lists, I give a nod towards my dwindling supply of real ale, or hint that a dine and drink voucher would be most acceptable. You might think there is a theme building here and you would be right.
Joking aside, this is the time of year when I love to see my family, friends and colleagues coming together and enjoying themselves. That said, I am also mindful that not everybody is as lucky as I am. For many years, I knew an elderly lady and every year would pop round with a card and a box of chocolates. One day her son called me and said, ‘You don’t know how much that means to my mum, that you have never forgotten her.’ Something that was small to me, meant the world to somebody else. I felt very humbled.
From the whole Advantia team, I wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
To find out more about how Advantia could benefit your company, please contact Steve Carter in one of the following ways:
https://www.advantia.co.uk info@advantia.co.uk 02476 373738
Dive into our special festive round up of all the best bits from the Dealer Support website. This month, we dive into winter workplace preparation, the rise of retro trends and practical tips for supporting employee financial wellness
While chocolates and socks are nice gifts, there’s one present that holds immeasurable value: the gift of time. Whether through flexible schedules, extra days off or opportunities for personal growth, giving employees the gift of time can significantly enhance their well-being and productivity, ultimately benefiting the whole business
Read the full article HERE
‘The
average UK household will spend over £1,800 on Christmas festivities - the equivalent of 80 percent of the average monthly UK income’
Supporting Holiday Financial Wellness
The holiday season can create financial stress for employees, making them feel overwhelmed and reluctant to share their struggles. To create a supportive workplace during this time, employers should take proactive steps to ease financial worries
Read the full article HERE
Forget the festive fads - it’s important for businesses to know how to keep their employees happy, healthy and energised as the days shorten and the nights lengthen. Employee wellbeing during the winter months is about simple yet effective seasonal adjustments to ensure a comfortable and energising work environment
Read the full article HERE
DIVERSIFICATION .
Who can resist a trip down memory lane? With the world fixated on what comes next and technological change rapidly pulling us into the future, it’s no wonder that retrothemed designs for workspaces have surged in popularity
Read the full article HERE
WHAT ARE YOU READING?
The best bits and the most clicked content from www.dealersupport.co.uk
‘Pop Art continues to be a popular design trend for businesses wanting to add a bold, bright and energetic look to the workplace’
As we wrap up another year, the workplace supplies industry has seen successes, challenges and changes over the past twelve months. We spoke to the Dealer Support Community to find out about their 2024 highlights and Christmas plans
Melissa Doran, marketing manager, JGBM
What are your professional resolutions for 2025?
To continue growing, learning and becoming the best version of myself, both personally and professionally!
Who is your 2024 ‘team hero’ and why?
It’s difficult to single anyone out because the entire JGBM team deserves recognition. However, I’d like to give a special mention to Lisa, our graphic designer. Lisa’s willingness and positive attitude make her an absolute pleasure to work alongside!
Where is the best place you have ever spent Christmas?
The best place is all under one roof with my family – for me, family time is the best time! However, a special moment was getting engaged in Iceland just a few days before Christmas last year. It truly felt like a magical “White Christmas” in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Which is better – mince pies, Christmas pudding or the yule log? Christmas pudding – but only if it comes with a layer of icing!
James Morton, managing director, MBM Omega
What has been your professional highlight of 2024?
While there have been some good contract wins – and those are always satisfying; my highlight has been seeing our team flourish and enjoy their work. What are your professional resolutions for 2025?
In 2025, I aim to stay actively involved in the business while dedicating more time to develop my leadership skills. I want to focus on mentoring and supporting the next generation of talent.
I want to focus on mentoring and supporting the next generation of talent
Who in your business is your 2024 ‘team hero’ and why? Honestly, they’re all team heroes – each one brings something unique and valuable, and that’s why they’re here! What are you hoping to find under the Christmas tree this year?
This year, I’m hoping to find a few things under the tree that help me recharge such as a great book, and maybe something unexpected that brings a bit of adventure.
Office Power, Richard Sinclair, co-CEO EO Group and Nick Wilson, co-CEO EO Group
What has been your professional highlight of 2024?
Richard: My highlight for 2024 was the successful launch of our Power Select “Your Tech, Your Way” campaign and reaching two years of significant investment in our technology platform which empowers businesses to integrate eCommerce and operations, enhancing flexibility in supply chain management and customer personalisation. Will you be donning the traditional Christmas jumper this year? If so, what’s your style?
Nick: I’m all in for the traditional Christmas jumper! I’m leaning towards an oversized, cosy design featuring classic festive patterns – think Rudolf the Reindeer, snowflakes and maybe even a “To the Pub” sign for some holiday humour. There’s something timeless about these cheerful motifs, and they really capture that feel-good spirit of the season.
Janet Bowden, managing director, Woodbank Office Solutions
What has been your professional highlight of 2024?
The highlight of 2024 has been the amazing amount of new business we’ve brought in. It’s such a great achievement, especially as we’re celebrating 35 years this year! On top of that, we’re nominated for two PrintIT awards, which is amazing.
Who in your business is your 2024 ‘team hero’ and why?
Carl Tomlinson, our head of sales. He’s such a great fit with our culture. For Carl, it’s not just about making a sale, it’s about each person in his team providing a high standard of dedicated account management to our customers. He leads by example, talking to our customers, meeting them face-to-face, and has really inspired our regional account managers to do the same.
Will you be donning the traditional Christmas jumper this year? If so, what’s your style?
Yes, definitely! We do a Christmas jumper day every year at Woodbank, and I love seeing the effort everyone makes. Mine is always a bit subdued compared to the rest of the teams'. One of our engineers, who always makes a huge effort, will be taking the glory again this year!
Which is better – mince pies, Christmas pudding or the yule log?
I can’t stand currants, so I’ll skip the Christmas pudding and mince pies. Just give me all the icing off the Christmas cake and I’ll eat it with the yule log!
James McKeever, managing director, Sovereign
What has been your professional highlight of 2024?
Becoming Chair of Boss Midlands and re-launching with a great team of people.
Who in your business is your 2024 ‘team hero’ and why?
Emily Ashton – general manager at Sovereign – took to the role fantastically and added so much value to all.
Will you be donning the traditional Christmas jumper this year? If so, what’s your style?
Hell yes – traditional – perhaps something 4D – snowflakes rock!
Where is the best place you have ever spent Christmas?
Dubai – but it was very strange Santa seeing arriving on a Camel!
Which is better – mince pies, Christmas pudding or the yule log?
Mince pies - I love opening my cupboard and still finding boxes in July.
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Karen Casey, sales support manager, Office Friendly
What has been your professional highlight of 2024?
Bringing on board our new sustainable accreditor/auditor DEKRA in September. Growing the Weaver brand – our new website launched at our conference and ten members have successfully reached certifications this year so far. Our anniversary conference - a huge success and I always feel privileged to be a part of it!
What are your professional resolutions for 2025?
To help more members with their sustainable journeys and get those on the programme the best levels of certification possible. If our shareholders vote for the merger to go ahead, I’m committed to making it as big a success as possible. It will be a real team effort!
Ten of our members have successfully reached certifications this year so far
Who in your business is your 2024 ‘team hero’ and why?
Callum North – a real team player, with aspirations. He’s up for the BOSS Rising Star Award and has developed and grown within Office Friendly – a genuinely lovely guy and makes a cracking cuppa!
Which is better – mince pies, Christmas pudding or the yule log?
I’m a yule log girl … mince pies are grinch food!
Day, managing director, Durable
What has been your professional highlight of 2024?
We’ve had another really good year. We’ve had a restructure in the business so that’s been quite a lot of change, and a lot of good things have come out of that.
Who in your business is your 2024 ‘team hero’ and why?
I think there are several! From a sales perspective, Ross Ailey has been fantastic in terms of developing some of our bigger accounts, as well as looking at a wide range of things that are probably not strictly within his remit. That has helped us do a load of new things with customers that we just weren’t doing even as recently as three years ago.
What are your key take aways or lessons from 2024?
I think as my remit has changed; I’ve become more comfortable not being in control of everything. That’s a bit of an uncomfortable feeling at first, but we’ve got such a good team here. It’s about taking a step back at times, and letting people try and find the solutions themselves. What are you hoping to find under the Christmas tree this year?
I never know what to ask for! I wouldn’t mind finding an extra hour of sleep wrapped up under the tree!
It’s about taking a step back at times, and letting people try and find the solutions themselves
Steve Carter, managing director, Advantia
What has been your professional highlight of 2024?
When I first came into the industry 32 years ago, it would never have even entered my head that one day I would have the privilege of becoming MD of the Advantia group, so a real proud moment for me was being able to stand up and speak at the Advantia 35th birthday celebration.
What key trends do you see continuing or evolving in workplace supplies in 2025?
Diversification will continue, dealers are always looking for new product and service sectors to tap into. I also believe that there will be more mergers and acquisitions across the industry.
Richard Hughes, partner, Chrisbeon
What has been your professional highlight of 2024?
Our business, which my father Brian started with his cousin Chris, celebrating its 50th birthday and winning Shropshire Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the year 2024.
What are your professional resolutions for 2025?
We will be working on more digital marketing, now that we have launched a new webstore this year.
What are you hoping to find under the Christmas tree this year?
A few assorted boxes of real ale would be most welcome. I shall be leaving a copy of Dealer Support on the coffee table, open at the relevant page, for my wife and kids to pore over.
Which is better – mince pies, Christmas pudding or the yule log?
Mince pies all day long, the perfect accompaniment to a real ale, or two, or three…
We will be focusing more on digital marketing next year
Who in your business is your 2024 ‘team hero’ and why?
My ex-colleague Elaine Pratt, who retired in August after an amazing 37 years with Chrisbeon!
Which is better – mince pies, Christmas pudding or the yule log?
Definitely Christmas pudding with brandy sauce!
Sian Haskell, director of marketing, Integra
What has been your professional highlight of 2024?
The proposal to merge with Office Friendly to further strengthen our members' businesses and the opportunities available. Who in your business is your 2024 ‘team hero’ and why? The success of the business has always been driven by the collective strengths of the team and therefore it would be wrong to pick an individual. We do however have a special member of staff celebrating 30 years with us – our sales and marketing administrator, Linda Cox. Her can-do attitude, enthusiasm and the brilliant relationship she has with members is amazing! What are you hoping to find under the Christmas tree this year?
My son is travelling at moment, I’d like him back in UK. Which is better – mince pies, Christmas pudding or the yule log?
Yule log!
When we reached out to industry experts for their insights on the highlights of 2024 and their outlook for 2025, the response was truly impressive. In fact, we received so much valuable input that we couldn’t fit it all into just one article!
Wishing all our members, suppliers and service providers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thank you for all your support in 2024 and we look forward to working with you in 2025!
The success of the business has always been driven by the collective strengths of the team
Be sure to check out our digital series, ‘Ready to Thrive in 2025,’ on the Dealer Support website throughout January where our Big Ask contributors share their thoughts on the key trends, challenges and opportunities shaping the workplace supplies industry for the coming year.
As the Christmas season approaches, it’s time to deck the halls and embrace the festive spirit! With an abundance of opportunities to engage with customers, it’s time to get creative with marketing that fosters meaningful connections lasting well into the New Year
During the festive period, dealers have a valuable opportunity to connect with their audiences. Between November and Christmas Eve, online activity and social media engagement see a remarkable increase of over 30%.
Whether it’s an employee looking to upgrade their home office or a large business sourcing promotional gifts for clients, this heightened engagement is a chance for dealers to connect with their audience on a deeper, more personal level.
Christmas presents an ideal opportunity to get creative with your marketing efforts. By embracing festive marketing, you can effectively demonstrate a culture of connectedness, openness and genuine interest in your community. This approach not only showcases your business values but also resonates with customers who are looking for meaningful connections during a time when they seek more than just products and services.
A Christmas Countdown is a fantastic way to engage with customers, and it can be a powerful marketing tool when executed creatively. But creating a standout countdown campaign requires more than just a daily post reminding your audience how many days are left until Christmas. In the crowded world of social media, the key is to captivate and engage your audience by taking them on a journey.
To make your campaign memorable, vary your content. Mix up static images, videos and even music to ensure each post feels fresh, eye-catching, and unique. Think beyond just promoting your products—create a festive experience for your customers. You can alternate between special offers, behind-the-scenes glimpses of your team preparing for the holidays and even throw in the odd Christmas cracker joke.
This journey isn’t just about driving sales—it’s about keeping your audience engaged, entertained and connected with your brand through the energy and spirit of the season.
In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s all too easy to slip into the habit of sending out generic well-wishes, losing touch with the genuine connections that this time of year is meant to nurture. However, meaningful interactions and memorable experiences can significantly strengthen long-term customer relationships.
One valuable way to engage with your customers is by offering unique experiences that deepen these connections! Why not consider hosting an exclusive festive event for your loyal customers. This is an excellent opportunity to interact with them, whether in person or virtually, providing a deeper insight into your business.
Such events could range from product demonstrations and behind-the-scenes tours to interactive workshops and festive contests. Additionally, think about offering early access to sales, special discounts or exclusive gifts to make your long-standing customers feel truly valued and appreciated.
While the festive season brings excitement and joy, it also presents significant challenges for your customers. Christmas shutdowns, increased deliveries and staff holidays can lead to fewer people in the office and an overwhelming workload. Dealers should proactively understand their customers’ operations during this period and offer tailored support to help alleviate stress.
Meaningful interactions and memorable experiences can significantly strengthen longterm customer relationships
Clear and timely communication is key to ensuring a smoother holiday experience for your customers. Start by providing comprehensive information about your holiday hours, order deadlines and any changes to delivery schedules well in advance. Regular updates about the status of orders, deliveries and product availability are crucial. Utilise emails, newsletters and social media to keep customers informed and engaged – this might involve offering simplified online ordering options or dedicated support lines during peak times.
Engaging with your customers during the Christmas season not only allows you to wrap up the year on a positive note but also lays the foundation for a stronger relationship in the year ahead. By creating memorable interactions and meaningful experiences, you can unwrap a deeper connection with your audience, ensuring they feel valued and appreciated. After all, nothing says “we care” like a personal touch during the holidays - and if nothing else, it’s a great opportunity to showcase those festive jumpers your team has been wearing!
SThis month, Helen Colton explores the enduring value of face-to-face interactions, networking and events in building relationships and maintaining relevance in a competitive market
taying relevant in today’s market requires more than just offering excellent products or services. It necessitates maintaining strong relationships and building a presence. Getting in front of customers is critical for fostering trust, establishing credibility and ensuring your offerings remain top of mind.
Personal interactions, whether through networking, events, or meetings, humanise your brand. B2B decisions are often complex, involving long sales cycles and multiple stakeholders. Face-to-face connections allow for deeper conversations, giving you the opportunity to address specific customer needs, demonstrate expertise and present tailored solutions. These interactions help build trust, a key component in business relationships.
Networking events and industry conferences are particularly valuable for meeting potential customers and strengthening ties with existing ones.
These events offer a platform to showcase your expertise, stay updated on trends and gather insights. Being present at such events positions your business as a proactive partner rather than a passive vendor.
The personal touch of an inperson meeting can differentiate your business from
competitors
For current customers, regular engagement reinforces loyalty and demonstrates your commitment to their success. Visits, presentations, or informal meetings offer opportunities to discuss ongoing needs, introduce new offerings and gather feedback. This approach not only solidifies relationships but can also lead to upselling or crossselling opportunities.
For new customers, visibility at events and networking activities builds awareness of your brand. In an age where virtual communication dominates, the personal touch of an in-person meeting can differentiate your business from competitors. It conveys dedication and adds authenticity to your interactions. While digital marketing and remote communication are essential components of a modern business marketing strategy, they should not replace face-to-face engagement. A strategic mix of activities, including trade shows, customer appreciation events and networking forums, ensures your business remains relevant and competitive.
In conclusion, getting in front of customers is more than a courtesy, it’s a business imperative. Networking and events, often overlooked in favour of digital strategies, remain indispensable tools for sustaining growth and staying relevant in an ever-changing market.
New from Essity is a programme that promotes transparency and helps customers meet their goals with the aid of accessible and reliable sustainability information
Tork Focus4 Sustainability provides customers with a comprehensive and easy-to-understand summary of the key sustainability benefits of select Tork systems.
“As sustainability legislation evolves and expectations increase, businesses need a clear view of sustainability product claims and benefits to understand their impact on people and the planet,” said Essity’s Lydia Brant, (Sustainability Specialist UK&I).
“However, decoding sustainability claims can be challenging. By sharing the benefits that matter to customers in a consistent way, Tork aims to educate and empower customers to make informed decisions for their businesses and support their own sustainability goals.”
Tork’s sustainability ethos is focused on four areas: materials and packaging; use and waste; carbon and hygiene for all. The company uses a lifecycle approach and considers the key sustainability needs of customers in line with the EU Green Deal priorities.
Tork Focus4 Sustainability materials include resources that:
● Offer an overview of comparable sustainability benefits for each of the Tork brand’s focus areas
● Share a Tork European average for carbon-in-use for napkins, toilet paper and hand towels
● Feature a product information tool that makes tender completion easier
● Improve sustainability knowledge with free access to interactive training modules
Tork is part of Essity, ranked as one of the world’s 100 most sustainable companies, in the Corporate Knights Global listing. The company’s sustainability initiatives include Tork PaperCircle, the world’s first recycling service for paper hand towels.
Tork aims to educate and empower customers to make informed decisions for their businesses
Many Tork products feature reduced packaging or eliminate cardboard cores to cut waste and material use. Some lines are compressed to save transport space leading to reduced carbon emissions. And innovative one-at-a-time dispensing helps users to consume fewer paper products.
Tork also offers a range of carbon-neutral certified dispensers produced with certified renewable electricity and compensated with climate projects by ClimatePartner2. Many Tork solutions are also EU Ecolabel certified and FSC labelled, noting they are made from responsibly sourced fibre.
Essity received two accolades for its sustainable ethos this autumn - winning a British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc) Environmental ESJ award and receiving the Circular and Recycling Award - Product Recycling in the National Sustainability Awards in conjunction with waste partner Recorra.
This is a sponsored article, brought to you by Tork. To learn more about Focus4 Sustainability and how Tork sustainable hygiene solutions can improve your facilities, please visit: www.tork.co.uk/sustainability
Whether you love them or hate them, New Year’s resolutions are a tradition that sees millions of people striving to start the new year with a positive outlook
Resolutions tend to get a bad wrap (we can’t resist a Christmas pun here), mainly because we tend to hear more about failures than successes. However, there’s an important lesson to be learned from this: if we approach resolutions with an expectation of failure, it’s likely we won’t succeed. Making resolutions is a powerful expression of our desire to start the year on a positive note and reflects a commitment to personal growth and improvement.
Creating the right mindset for success is vital. Dealers are uniquely positioned to support workplaces in this endeavor by helping to foster an environment where employees feel motivated and empowered to pursue their resolutions - whether that’s becoming fitter and healthier or simply getting more organised. After all, the best resolutions are the ones that extend well beyond January 31st.
Put simply, most resolutions fail because people tend to bite off more than they can chew! No matter how well intentioned, for most people, it isn’t realistic to go from the comforts of Christmas and all its indulgent treats to running 5km a day. The key to long-term success lies in viewing resolutions as opportunities for gradual, sustainable change rather than drastic overhauls. By making small adjustments that can be easily incorporated into daily life, individuals can achieve their goals without feeling like they’re making huge sacrifices.
For businesses, fostering this mindset means integrating support for employee goals into the everyday culture of the organisation. Dealers can play a crucial role in this by helping them to engage with employees to better understand their needs and aspirations. Whether it’s providing better perks, offering more healthy options in the kitchen, or creating wellness programs that encourage physical activity.
A change in scenery is a fantastic way to refresh and re-energise the workplace as the new year begins. It offers a perfect opportunity for dealers to recommend quick and cost-effective changes that can invigorate the office environment. These adjustments don’t have to be significant; even small modifications can make a big impact.
For instance, businesses might consider swapping out soft furnishings for brighter, lighter colour schemes, or updating desk accessories and organisational products to create a more vibrant and inviting atmosphere.
Creating dedicated spaces for relaxation and mindfulness, complete with yoga mats and meditation cushions, can encourage employees to take breaks and unwind. Adding plants can improve air quality and create a calming ambiance, while acoustic panels can help reduce noise levels for a more peaceful environment.
While many people enter the new year feeling motivated to make changes, that enthusiasm can often dwindle as the months progress. To sustain this momentum, it’s crucial for dealers to guide their customers toward products and initiatives that nurture a culture of employee support throughout the year.
For instance, dealers can suggest offering perks that go beyond standard benefits. Consider providing tasting boxes filled with healthy snacks as a fun alternative to traditional fruit options. Additionally, businesses could consider equipping employees with personal organisers or planners to help them track their goals and progress.
By consistently providing these resources and creating an engaging workplace culture, dealers can play a pivotal role in helping businesses maintain enthusiasm for positive change long after the New Year’s resolutions have been made.
The key to long-term success lies in viewing resolutions as opportunities for gradual, sustainable change
Committing to personal improvement goes beyond just having the right mindset; it requires practical tools to help employees effectively manage their workloads and maintain a healthy work-life balance. By providing these resources, businesses can empower employees to integrate new goals into their daily schedules.
One crucial aspect of this is ensuring that employees have access to dedicated spaces for learning and skill development. For instance, dealers could assist with creating CPD pods equipped with noisecancelling headphones that can facilitate virtual workshops and training sessions, allowing employees to focus without distractions. Additionally, incorporating productivity tools like time planners can help employees prioritise tasks and track their progress toward personal and professional goals.
Moreover, it’s essential for dealers to work with businesses to assess whether their employees’ personal work equipment—such as laptops, tablets, and other electronic devices—is up to date and fit for purpose. By ensuring that employees have the right technological resources, businesses can create a more conducive environment for personal growth and development.
As we step into the new year, let’s remember that supporting employees in their resolutions isn’t just good for them—it’s great for business too! By creating a culture that nurtures personal growth, your customers can foster a motivated workforce ready to tackle the year ahead.
‘Tis the season for holiday cheer, festive décor, and... a mountain of waste to manage. But fear not – with a few clever swaps and ecofriendly strategies, businesses can host Christmas events that are kind to both the environment and the office clean-up crew
IAs businesses prepare for a sea of empty envelopes and Terry’s Chocolate Orange wrappers, dealers are ready to help them do battle with the 700,000 tonnes of waste produced in the UK each December.
SIMPLE WAYS TO MANAGE WASTE
Gift paper, open envelopes, left over buffet pizza slices –from food waste to unwanted wrapping, Christmas parties can create a whole lot of waste. This not only poses a threat to the environment but also means that someone has to deal with the cleanup!
Dealers have a valuable opportunity to help businesses implement effective systems and products to manage the additional waste generated during this festive time. One of the first steps is to recommend customers install additional recycling receptacles throughout the workplace, accompanied by clear signage that guides employees and guests on what can be recycled and where it should go.
It’s equally important for dealers to highlight the need for awareness regarding any additional individuals in the environment, such as party guests or visitors, who may consume extra resources like food and drinks. By accurately assessing the number of attendees during the festive season and adjusting orders for food and beverages accordingly, businesses can significantly reduce waste. This approach prevents the tendency to order in bulk, which often leads to excess leftovers.
In addition to this, dealers can significantly contribute to waste reduction at workplace Christmas events by promoting creative alternatives to traditional wrapped gifts. Instead of relying on excessive packaging, why not
encourage businesses to set up a beautifully decorated gift station? This allows employees to place their presents with a simple tag instead of wrapping them in paper. Imagine gifts arranged on shelves and display units adorned with seasonal touches like pinecones and shimmering silver snowflakes. This not only cuts down on wrapping waste but also adds a unique and personal touch to the gifting experience.
Decorating the workspace is not only a fun festive tradition, but also a way for the team to bond and enjoy spending some quality time together – and quality time can be seriously hampered by having to spend hours untangling mixed up fairy lights. To make workplace decorations more sustainable and long-lasting, it’s essential to invest in items that can withstand the test of time. We’re sure a few of us would confess to throwing away perfectly good Christmas decorations just because they became too much of a pain to unpack every year!
Dealers can offer a variety of storage solutions designed to enhance the longevity of decorations, ensuring they remain in good condition year after year. In addition to sturdy, stackable boxes, cable tidies and organisers, dealers might consider providing labelling systems, encouraging the use of labels on bins and boxes can streamline the unpacking process, ensuring that decorations are returned to their rightful place after the holidays.
Dealers are vital in showcasing that reusable products can be both convenient and practical
Additionally, dealers can guide customers toward non-traditional décor that is versatile enough to enhance the workspace during the holiday season while remaining stylish year-round. One effective approach is to utilise festive-themed colour palettes for folders, filing systems and office furnishings. For a contemporary atmosphere, consider suggesting colour schemes that incorporate bright whites, soft greys and tranquil blues. These colours not only evoke a fresh and clean aesthetic but can also be accented with metallic touches such as silver or chrome, which bring a subtle sparkle.
For a more classic and warmer ambience, deep burgundy’s, golds and rich reds can add a sophisticated touch of festive cheer. These colours work beautifully in combination, creating a rich tapestry that can be integrated into desk accessories, wall art and even furniture.
Every year in the UK, an astonishing 300 million plastic cups and straws are consumed during Christmas parties on average. With many businesses facing financial constraints this holiday season, a significant number are opting for in-office celebrations instead of hosting events at external venues. While this shift can help save costs, it inevitably leads to increased catering demands and, consequently, a greater need for kitchen efficiency.
● 61% of Brits admit they don’t reuse their Christmas party outfit, so why not ditch the dress code this season? Let everyone wear whatever they feel comfortable in – after all, cozy and casual beats formal any day!
● Brighten up a party with LED Christmas lightsthey use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, making them both festive and eco-friendly!
● Trade in the plastic Christmas tree for seasonal flowers that can be composted after they’ve bloomed. It’s a fresh, eco-friendly alternative that adds natural beauty to your celebration!
As the holiday spirit takes hold, many individuals and organisations may prioritise convenience over eco-friendly practices. After all, the thought of washing up hundreds of buffet plates and cups can feel overwhelming, especially at a time when there is so much going on.
In this scenario, dealers are vital in showcasing that reusable products can be both convenient and practical. If your customers have in-house washing facilities, like dishwashers, now is an excellent opportunity to promote any eco-friendly cleaning solutions you may offer. These effective, environmentally friendly cleaning products can simplify the post-party cleanup, enabling the use of reusable dishes and utensils without the hassle of extensive washing.
For dealers providing food and snack packages a highly effective way to enhance sustainability is by partnering with local caterers. By directing customers toward options sourced from nearby businesses that prioritise sustainable practices, dealers can help promote an eco-friendlier approach to holiday catering.
This not only supports the community but also helps to reduce the environmental impact of food production and distribution. Dealers can enhance their offerings by providing customisable snack boxes that include vegetarian and vegan menu items in their food packages.
Dealers have a valuable opportunity to help businesses implement effective systems to manage the additional waste generated during this festive time
These options typically have a lower environmental impact compared to meat-based dishes, as they require fewer resources to produce.
In the spirit of making this festive season both joyful and sustainable, dealers have a unique opportunity to help businesses host a greener, cleaner Christmas party with just a few mindful changes. By encouraging eco-friendly décor, smart waste management systems and sustainable catering solutions, dealers can help customers deck the halls without over filling the bins.
As we close out this special festive issue, we want to take a moment to wish you all a very happy holiday season! We also want to remind you to prioritise both your own and your team’s mental health and wellbeing during this busy time
With a shorter working month, heightened social pressures and family commitments to juggle, this time of year can sometimes feel more overwhelming than joyful, making it challenging to embrace the festive spirit and becoming more of a chore than a chance to celebrate.
To ensure your Christmas is merry and stress-free this year, we encourage you to focus on these three key elements of personal well-being (and share them with your team). After all, when you find yourself knee-deep in gift wrapping, juggling workloads and trying to figure out how many roast potatoes you’ll need for the big day, it’s easy to overlook the importance of kindness—especially toward yourself.
It’s important to acknowledge that you can’t do everything, especially during the busy
It’s easy to overlook the importance of kindness - especially toward yourself
holiday season. Resist the temptation to send out those non-essential work emails and instead focus on what truly needs to get done. Take the time to clarify your priorities and set achievable to-do lists that reflect what’s most important. Additionally, communicate your boundaries with colleagues and clients. Let them know when you’ll be available and when you’ll be offline, so they can adjust their expectations accordingly.
For many of us, Christmas can feel like an obstacle course filled with parties, school plays, and work commitments. Being flexible and open to adjusting both your schedule and that of your team is essential
for successfully navigating this busy season. Embracing adaptability can significantly alleviate stress for everyone, helping to ensure that the holidays don’t turn into a frantic race to the finish line.
Lastly, remember to be kind to yourself. Make a conscious effort to leave work behind, even if it’s just for the day. Activate your out-of-office message, silence your phone and take the opportunity to reconnect with the important people in your life. Some tasks can certainly wait until the New Year, and by giving yourself the gift of time, you will feel more refreshed and better prepared to tackle any challenges when you return.
From all of us at Dealer Support, we would like to thank you for your continued support throughout 2024 and wish you all health, happiness and prosperity for 2025. Whatever you are doing this festive holiday, we hope you get plenty of chances to relax, unwind and spend time with friends and family. If the past few years have taught us anything, it is that no-one can predict what is around the corner, but the new year brings with it new opportunity and we know the dealer community will continue to embrace change and rise to any challenges as it has done so expertly over the past few years. We are looking forward to returning in January, refreshed and ready to kick off 2025 with a bang! We look forward to bringing you all the latest industry news, views and opinions and sharing your stories of innovation and inspiration and continuing to champion independent dealers in the channel. We are very grateful to all our incredible readers, contributors, partners and advertisers for their support and invaluable insights
Wishing a very merry Christmas to you all!
The Dealer Support team