![Shirley Edwards, co-owner of the firm, with the IIP accreditation Contract caterers edwards blake investors in people accreditation](/sites/default/files/styles/single_page/public/images/news/shirley_edwards_with_iip_award.jpg?itok=drI0B242)
The catering firm met the 39 IIP criteria set by business leaders that cover business management, leadership and performance measurement. The award is an indication to the public and employees, that the holder of the accreditation exhibits excellent people-management skills.
Edwards & Blake has invested significantly in employee retention, having a staff turnover of 16.6%, compared to the catering industry average of 26%.
Shirley Edwards, managing director of Edwards & Blake, said: “Our exceptionally high staff retention figure is a result of our people-orientated ethos and the work we put into ensuring our staff are happy and enthusiastic about their roles.
“The overarching ethos at Edwards & Blake is one of approachability and openness with staff, so they feel comfortable discussing any concerns or challenges they need help with. We have also invested in training site managers to improve their skills in this area.”
The IIP report praised Edwards & Blake for their commitment to staff development commenting that ‘the owners have built the business based on strong relationships and openness and this remains readily apparent’.
The firm, based in Swaffham in Norfolk, is owned and managed by Shirley Edwards and Caroline Blake. It oversees 85 contracts, employs over 500 staff and has a turnover of over £15 million.