As part of the British Chambers of Commerce’s annual Chamber Business Awards 2023, a 126-year-old firm has won this year’s Workforce Developer award for inspiring its staff.

The awards, now in their 20th year, are one of the showpieces of the business calendar, highlighting the role of firms in delivering growth and prosperity for the UK and local communities. 

The Workforce Developer award recognises the work of a business that has demonstrated how their approach to the learning and development of their team has enhanced their business performance.    

Henderson Group, a member of the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce, was founded in Belfast by John Henderson in 1897 as a butter, cheese and egg retailer. It has since expanded and diversified significantly and has brands such as Spar and Vivo in its stable. 

Learning and development is at the heart of its people strategy, which focuses on four core themes – Keep Me Well, Keep Me Engaged, Keep Me Involved and Keep Me Inspired.    

Skills development is implemented through its learning team, The Academy, which focuses on the company’s core values of ambition, teamwork, customer first and integrity. The group facilitates lifelong learning and career pathways, and continually evolves its approach to stay relevant, in the context of new technologies and its diverse workforce.  

Sarah Howard, Chair of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said:    

“Henderson Group UK stood out as they were able to show how workforce development benefits the growth of the overall company. They demonstrated the very clear link between workplace development and the resultant increase in revenue and profit. Delivering this training through their own Academy clearly has benefits and incentives for both the employer and employees. They have done a fabulous job all round.”