Recognition for excellence stands Argos in good stead

Argos won this top accolade in 2006 and regularly uses the 'award-winning' tag in its corporate and recruitment communications.

“We welcomed the creation of the People in Retail Awards in recognition of the important contribution our colleagues play in delivering a first class experience for customers,” says Neil Morrison, HR manager at Argos. “To be short-listed in six categories and to win two of these was a great reflection of the calibre of the people at Argos and recognition of the hard work and commitment that our teams demonstrate.”

Taking the top Employer of the Year gong at the 2006 ceremony, as well as Argos employee Nolene Harris winning Team Player of the Year, shows the company in an incredibly good light. An industry-recognised win is also music to the ears of recruitment consultancies looking to promote their client as an 'employer of choice'.

“Winning awards can also be incredibly useful to support and recognise members of the HR and recruitment teams, to show that all their innovative work has paid off,” says Ben Wilmott, employee relations advisor at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. “Well-organised awards events can be the ultimate morale boost for colleagues, and perhaps most importantly provide the seal of approval not merely as internal recognition, but as third-party industry acknowledgement.”

Argos' parent company, Home Retail Group, is the UK's leading home and general merchandise retailer with sales of over £5.5 billion, selling through both Argos and Homebase, and employing approximately 51, 000 people.

Judges were impressed by the company's ability to instil a competitive will to win in its employees, allowing them to take ownership of situations “and make things happen fast”.

Argos is known for its excellent training, comprehensive benefits, career development structure, and flexible working initiatives. Despite working in such a fast-paced, competitive arena, the judges felt overwhelmingly that the group does not lose sight of the needs and aspirations of thousands of part and full time workers across its stores, DCs and call centres.

“The awards evening was a really enjoyable way of celebrating this success with our colleagues,” says Morrison. “We look forward to entering the awards again in future years.”

ENTER NOW !!! If you would like to know more about the 2007 People in Retail Awards follow the link below to see all the categories, entry deadlines and general information

The People in Retail Awards are in association with Creation Financial Services.