Workplace and interior design consultancy Wylde IA has announced the Bath winner of its Happiest Workplace 2016 competition as M2 Bespoke, the content publishing agency.
Limpley Stoke based M2 Bespoke received the accolade at an awards ceremony kindly hosted by partners Herman Miller at their headquarters in Chippenham and was attended by staff from shortlisted finalists Shiner, Paper Arts, Excalibur Communications and overall winner Rethink Recruitment.
Judges of the contest, staged by workplace and interior design consultancy Wylde IA, were impressed by M2’s unique attitude to staff wellbeing as well as the tranquil surroundings of its Stokewood House HQ complete with office dog.
Founder Ben Hollom lays on a ‘Google-style’ lunch every Friday, including a barbecue when the sun shines and breakfast is provided every day.
Staff enjoy a flexible approach to working which includes being able to work one day a week from home. As a result the company enjoys low levels of sickness and absenteeism and strong employee retention.
The judges gave particular credit to the company for its innovative approach to handling particularly busy periods by offering ‘freelance rates’ to volunteers to cope with increased workloads.
Maxine Bennett, director, Wylde IA said: “Yet again the quality and creativeness of the workspaces we’ve seen this year has been incredible.
“All our finalists’ workspaces are inspirational but M2 Bespoke is a worthy regional winner. They have created a space and company culture which nurtures the lifeblood of their company – the staff.”
Now in its second year, the Happiest Workplace competition was initially launched to celebrate Wylde IA’s 18 years in the business.
The company wanted to find out exactly what makes a great workplace and, therefore, happy staff.
Bertie Van Wyk, Herman Miller said: “It’s inspiring to see the innovative ideas our finalists have implemented, not just to improve the lives of their staff, but to invest in their happiness.”
Wylde IA is an award-winning independent interior design consultancy, trading for 20 years. The company specialises in creative design, working directly with clients throughout the UK and Europe in partnership with external suppliers, architects and fit-out companies creating inspiring places to work, learn, rest and play.