2 May 2006

Staff are key to firm's success

Investment in staff is the key to business success, according to a Leeds firm which has just won the Government's prestigious Investors in People award. Cartwright Hardware is an architectural ironmongery specialist. The company supplies door furniture, window fittings and a wide range of products for access and security buildings. Its customers include architects, building contractors, construction companies and developers across the Yorkshire region.

The company has been awarded the Investors in People (IIP) accreditation by the UK business improvement organisation. In its first IIP assessment report, Cartwright Hardware was praised for supporting and encouraging staff development. Managing director Keith Trotter said: "Every member of staff at Cartwright Hardware is highly valued and each one makes an important contribution to the success of the company. Achieving the Investors in People standard demonstrates our continued commitment to developing a dedicated team of technical experts". Cartwright Hardware's commitment to staff training includes emphasis on obtaining formal qualifications including the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers Diploma. The company also provides regular in-house training to update product knowledge and keep staff abreast of legislative changes affecting the industry. Cartwright Hardware, established in Leeds in 1964, has a team of 10 technical sales staff based at its headquarters on Springwell Road, Leeds. A management buyout in 1999 brought a change of ownership. Under the guidance of Managing Director Keith Trotter, the company has maintained a loyal customer base and strong reputation in the building industry for reliability, quality and service. TOP TEAM: Managing Director Keith Trotter, front right, with staff, from left, Keira Basnett, Lee Smith, Paul Barton, Craig Gothard, Mike Gautrey, Don Wilson, Mark Charlton and Ray Naylor.