#16 “AS ALWAYS, AT THE VERY HEART OF OUR BUSINESS ARE THE PEOPLE WHO WORK SO HARD TO PRESERVE THE WAINWRIGHT LEGACY AND CARRY US INTO THE FUTURE.”

A NOTE FROM PETER

I’m pleased to welcome you to our latest edition of Rockface. As Likewise, Wainwright Contracting won two large contracts and you’ll see it has been a busy period for Wainwright, with exciting increased turnover by 26 per cent over the preceding year, with every developments and achievements in every sphere of the business. member of the team putting in extra hours to deliver success.

The last year has been one of contrasts. The first six months were Meanwhile, the quarry team worked hard to fast track the development a difficult time, not just for our business but for the industry as a of Stoke Quarry, to ensure we have a strong viable quarrying business whole. Margins were tight due to an increasing cost base and trading in the years ahead. We also continue to investigate future reserves in welcome conditions were tough. Moons Hill Quarry to meet our long-term basalt needs. The second half of the year saw a complete turnaround. In fact, we And, of course, our finance, HR and business support teams did so well in the last six months of the 2018-19 financial year that continued driving our success while ensuring business compliance we more than compensated for the disappointing first-half trading and efficiency. performance. Over the year, we achieved record turnover that was 15 per cent higher than our previous best. Profit was up 72 per cent on There is much to celebrate about Wainwright’s past 12 months, the year before, and we sold record volumes of material. therefore, as the stories on these pages highlight. As always, at the very heart of our business are the people who work so hard to preserve What caused the change in fortunes? Some of the success was the Wainwright legacy and carry us into the future. undoubtedly due to more favourable market conditions including an EDITORIAL HELLO extra £420m of government money allocated in the Autumn Budget I’m proud of the team for what they’ve achieved. As well as business for road repairs. success, we’ve made an ongoing contribution to the local community through the Wainwright Futures Foundation and the work of the Editor: Tim Gibson John Wainwright & Co. Ltd More fundamentally, though, I believe our success is predicated upon Earth Science Centre and introduced several initiatives to Editorial Consultant: Joni Stoker Moons Hill Quarry, Mendip Road the hard work and dedication of our staff. Having faced a challenging enhance staff wellbeing. period, they rallied, showed characteristic drive and commitment, Stoke St Michael, Radstock and delivered for our company in every area. These are the hallmarks of a thriving company. So, while many DESIGN & PRINT Somerset, BA3 5JU industry insiders predict further economic uncertainty in the coming So it is that the sales team pulled in record orders month after month months, I am confident that Wainwright will continue to flourish. We are a strong business built on solid values. As we proved so New Century Design 01749 840274 over the winter, when business is usually quieter. This included a large contract to supply a Highways project on the M5 that gave emphatically last year, we have what it takes to succeed. [email protected] www.newcenturydesign.co.uk the asphalt teams and technical department plenty of opportunity 01460 234941 www.wainwright.co.uk to shine by meeting demand and ensuring we met the stringent requirements of this high-profile project.

Peter Barkwill, Chief Executive

2 3 HIGHWAYS ENGLAND CONTRACT IS BIG DEAL FOR WAINWRIGHT

10,676 tonnes provided to the M5.

A NEW ARRANGEMENT TO SUPPLY ASPHALT TO HIGHWAYS ENGLAND REFLECTS WAINWRIGHT’S GROWING STATURE IN THE INDUSTRY.

4 5 “AS A RESULT OF THIS CONTRACT, WE’VE DEMONSTRATED OUR ABILITY TO RESOURCE VERY HIGH-PROFILE PROJECTS. WE LOOK FORWARD TO SERVICING MANY MORE IN THE FUTURE, BUILDING ON OUR TRIED-AND-TESTED EFFICIENCY, QUALITY AND SERVICE.”

ANDY ROBINSON TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

The end of 2018 saw a significant moment in Wainwright’s on our tried-and-tested efficiency, quality and service.” “OUR EFFORTS THE BLACK STUFF: FACT FILE evolution. For the first time, the company supplied CONTRIBUTED TO asphalt for use on the UK’s motorway network. Wainwright’s involvement in the bid reflects its reputation as a supplier of high-quality materials, delivered on RECORD VOLUMES During the period between 5 November 2018 and early time and on budget. By working collaboratively across IN OCTOBER AND Britain has more than 200,000 The country’s oldest road is the January 2019, Wainwright provided 10,676 tonnes departments, the company was able to honour its NOVEMBER, AND miles of roads. Ridgeway, from Wiltshire to of asphalt to a resurfacing project on the M5. The commitment to the scheme, sending out an average of 10 THE BEST DECEMBER Berkshire. It is more than 5,000 northbound and southbound carriageways between trucks every night to keep the supply of asphalt flowing. years old. Junctions 20 and 21 were resurfaced, and all the material FIGURES WE’VE EVER came from Wainwright’s Avonmouth Asphalt plant. “Our efforts contributed to record volumes in October ACHIEVED.” If you joined all the potholes on and November, and the best December figures we’ve UK roads together to form one Speaking about the project, Technical Director Andy ever achieved,” continued Andy. “It shows the potential ANDY ROBINSON giant crater, it would be the size The first tarmac-covered road Robinson said: “This deal has been a long time in the for Wainwright to service large orders on prestigious TECHNICAL DIRECTOR of the Isle of Wight – 295 square was built in Nottingham in 1902. making. We’re working as part of an arrangement with projects, including major infrastructure investment. I’m miles. The first motorway (the M6 FM Conway, which pitched for a contract with Highways excited by this development in our offer to the industry.” Preston by-pass) came in 1958. It England and included Wainwright as a preferred supplier. was eight miles long.

“As a result of this contract, we’ve demonstrated our Potholes cost British motorists ability to resource very high-profile projects. We look £2.8 billion in repairs each year. forward to servicing many more in the future, building On average, each of England’s roads is resurfaced every 54 years.

6 7 WAINWRIGHT CONTRACTING On the map

WAINWRIGHT CONTRACTING HAS WON TWO HIGH VALUE CONTRACTS IN RECENT MONTHS, TOTALLING £16 MILLION BETWEEN THEM. IT CAPS A BUSY YEAR, IN WHICH THE TEAM HAS ENSHRINED ITS REPUTATION FOR QUALITY, EFFICIENCY AND HARD WORK AND INCREASED TURNOVER BY 26 PER CENT ON THE PREVIOUS YEAR.

“It’s great for a company like Wainwright to be working on high-profile projects,” said Contracting Director Lee Seviour, who spearheaded the pitches for the new contracts and has led the business to its recent success.

“Wainwright Contracting has a strong reputation throughout the region. We’re excited to be making a positive contribution to Wainwright as a whole, and to be bearing the company’s flag throughout the region.

“Our success last year was the result of a great deal of hard work from the team. Now, we look forward to continuing our expansion and finding even more opportunities to grow.”

8 4 commerce 5 9 LOWER BRISTOL ROAD Weston Super Mare

“It’s like floating on a magic carpet!”

That’s the view expressed by one motorist after travelling on Weston’s busy Lower Bristol Road after Wainwright Contracting resurfaced it in January 2019.

The job came after a period in which the quality of Lower Bristol Road and the connecting Walliscote Road had diminished considerably. Wainwright Contracting resurfaced the entire route, necessitating overnight closures and traffic control.

“This was another high-profile job and our team worked hard to minimise disruption for local residents,” Matthew reported. “The feedback we received from the council and from road users was really encouraging. It shows the difference we can make to residents’ lives through our resurfacing work.” “IT’S LIKE FLOATING ON A MAGIC CARPET!”

BEGGAR BUSH LANE A358 Near Taunton

The team worked on a £400,000 project to resurface When a lorry spilt 200 litres of diesel onto large volumes of asphalt and a significant 3.2km of busy commuter route in November, and “AMAZING JOB!” the surface of the A358 trunk road in commitment of labour.” was praised by local residents and officials for South Somerset, Wainwright quickly came making a positive impact. to the rescue. Wainwright’s team travelled to the site and began work at 5pm. The job was Wainwright Contracting closed the road overnight The spillage happened on the morning completed by 1.30am on Thursday, 11 from Monday to Friday to complete the works. of Wednesday, 10 October. By 1.20pm, October, enabling the road to be reopened Some 2,500 tonnes of Hot-Rolled Asphalt (HRA) Wainwright Contracting received a call in time for the rush hour traffic. were laid along the route, and the project attracted from Skanska asking it to dispatch a a great deal of media attention as a result of its resurfacing team with 20 tonnes of asphalt “I am incredibly proud of everyone prominent location in order to patch the road. for working so hard in pressured circumstances,” said Lee. “Our great “The project was well managed and completed “Half an hour later, the request had performance on this job has yielded lots on time and on budget,” explained Operations grown to 60 tonnes of asphalt,” reported of good will, enhancing our reputation Manager – Contracting, Matthew Moore. “We Lee Seviour. “Within another couple of for quality and efficiency, no matter what received a great deal of positive feedback while on hours, we were informed that it would be challenges arise.” site, and social media coverage of our activities was a major resurfacing operation, requiring very complimentary.”

10 11 A new lease of life

EXTENSIVE WORKS AT WAINWRIGHT’S STOKE QUARRY HAVE ESTABLISHED NEW BENCHES THAT WILL PROVIDE THE BUSINESS WITH STONE FOR FUTURE YEARS

12 13 AS ONE OF THE THREE QUARRIES THAT TRADITIONALLY MAKE UP THE MOONS HILL COMPLEX, STOKE QUARRY HAS ALWAYS HAD AN IMPORTANT PART TO PLAY IN WAINWRIGHT’S OPERATIONS. NOWADAYS, WITH SUNNYHILL QUARRY NO LONGER IN USE, THE COMPANY’S ACTIVITIES CENTRE ON MOONS HILL QUARRY AND STOKE QUARRY.

For more than 120 years, Moons Hill has been the main repository of rock for Wainwright. But the last four years have seen a gradual shift in focus to Stoke Quarry, which is at present the main source of stone for the business.

As these photos show, Stoke Quarry has undergone extensive development in recent months. New quarry benches have been established that facilitate access to many millions of tonnes of stone. “DEVELOPING STOKE QUARRY IS A “This is a significant achievement,” said SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENT” Operations Director Wayne McKeown. “It ensures Wainwright has a good supply of stone WAYNE MCKEOWN for the years ahead. In the long term, we intend OPERATIONS DIRECTOR to return Moons Hill to its status as Wainwright’s principal quarry, and are currently identifying the reserves available to us there.”

14 15 A short history of Moons Hill

THE RECENT ACCELERATION IN STOKE On 15 February 1898, all that changed. John Wainwright and his co- By 1904, the commercial success of Moons Hill Stone inspired Mendip excitement of restarting works in the quarry in 1979 was tempered QUARRY’S DEVELOPMENT PROVIDES A founders, John Luff and John Laver, signed the lease on Moons Hill Granite & Asphalte – a competitor of Wainwright’s – to establish a when English China Clays took over Stoke Quarry. But Wainwright PERFECT OPPORTUNITY TO REFLECT ON THE Quarry, agreeing to an annual rent of £29 and a royalty of 2d per ton quarry over the road from Moons Hill, which it called Sunny Hill. retained its market dominance, and eventually agreed the purchase of HISTORY OF THE MOONS HILL COMPLEX. of material sold. Stoke in 1986. Wainwright remained the market leader for this distinctive type of The history of Wainwright is entwined with that of Moons Hill quarry. Within 18 months, the company had agreed to buy Moons Hill for igneous hardstone. Sunny Hill closed in 1909, and Wainwright didn’t This created the Moons Hill complex as it is known today. Stoke merged It is the landscape with which the company is synonymous, and even £1,000 and was marketing its premium roadstone, renowned for its have any local competition for another 30 years, when H. Matthews & with Sunny Hill, but wasn’t used as a source of rock for many years. gave its name to the distinctive basalt rock on which its reputation has high skid resistance, through the South West and beyond. Son opened Stoke Quarry across the road from Moons Hill, and Perry Instead, steered by the then Quarry Manager Peter Barkwill, major long been founded: moons hill stone, as it was marketed in the early & Perry started a basalt quarry at Downhead. investment was made in Moons Hill, which continued as Wainwright’s twentieth century. The story of Moons Hill, then, is one of entrepreneurship and flagship quarry. expansion. That is why it typifies the Wainwright ethos: landscape Unperturbed, Wainwright continued to invest in Moons Hill, making So it may be a surprise to discover that Moons Hill didn’t feature in and company are bound by the vision, innovation and unwavering the quarry its sole operating site in 1933 and extending it to a total Recent investment in Stoke has led to an increase in output from the Wainwright’s operations until a whole seven years after the company enterprise that have always been at the heart of Wainwright’s success. of 93 acres in the late 1940s and 1950s. It gradually modernised, as quarry (pp 14 - 15). This, in turn, facilitates further development of was founded. well as investing in local landscape enhancements to minimise the Moons Hill Quarry to safeguard stone supplies for the coming years. So it is that Moons Hill has been invested in and developed almost ever environmental impact of its activities. So Wainwright’s core activity of extracting basalt from the Mendips In the years between 1891 and 1898, John Wainwright and Company since Wainwright took it over in 1899. By 1902 a rotary screen and bins continues, more than 120 years after it acquired Moons Hill. Through was a limestone specialist, working a number of quarries in and were constructed on the site to improve efficiency. A smaller quarry to By 1976, with an offer to buy Stoke Quarry rejected two years before, generations of change, investment and development, this has been the around the Mendips. the north of the main site was also opened up, apparently prompted by Wainwright was given permission to reopen Sunny Hill Quarry, last constant on which Wainwright’s success is built. It is the rock, quite the discovery of a vein of unusually strong stone. operated by Mendip Granite & Asphalte 70 years previously. The literally, on which the company is founded.

16 17 Stoke St Michael: The village Moons Hill Quarry: Wainwright has operated is a near neighbour to Moons Moons Hill since 1898. The processing plant Hill, which measures just over is to the left of the quarry, with Head Office a mile from end to end. (opened in 2000) just in front.

Stoke Quarry: A part of the Moons Hill complex since Wainwright acquired it in 1986, the quarry currently supplies the bulk of Wainwright’s basalt needs.

Back to nature: The fishing lake was constructed during the 1970s. It now provides a peaceful setting for the Somerset Earth Science Centre.

Asphalt plant: Since this picture was taken, PV panels have been fitted to the storage sheds. Read the full story on p. 29

Recycled Asphalt Planings (RAPs): Key to Wainwright’s sustainability programme is the use of RAPs in the production of asphalt. This is where they’re stored and processed.

The Moons Hill complex

WE SENT A DRONE OUT ABOVE MOONS HILL TO CAPTURE AERIAL FOOTAGE OF WAINWRIGHT’S DISTINCTIVE LANDSCAPE. HERE’S A BIRD’S-EYE VIEW OF OUR HQ

18 19 Long-service awards

FIFTEEN YEARS CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING WAINWRIGHT STAFF WHO RECEIVED LOYALTY ALAN CARPENTER AWARDS IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS: Quarry Operative 2004 - 2019

TEN YEARS

DAVE TURNER JIM SIMS ADRIAN SCHREIBER-GREEN PAUL CRABBE

FIVE YEARS

ANDY SMITH CHRIS WOODLAND JULIA SWIFT ALICIA SHORT JONI STOKER RICHARD WASON DAVE PALFREY

20 21 Staff changes

WELCOME, CONGRATULATIONS AND FAREWELLS

WELCOME

• Rory Bishop, Apprentice Electrician • Joe Robinson, Asphalt Plant Operative • Lewis Gale, Viafix Plant Operative • Mark Smith, Weighbridge Operative • Jason Wyatt, Civils Operative • James Stanley, Civils Operative • George Jackson, Surfacing Operative • Ryan Bartlett, Asphalt Plant Operative • Nick Hopkins, Viafix Plant Operative • Andrew Seal, Sales Coordinator • Sophie Cottrell Quarry Operative • Brendon Jenkins, Quarry Operative • Oliver Ashton, Quarry Manager • Paul Davis, Sales Coordinator • Lee Phillips, Surfacing Operative • Ashley Osbourne, Surfacing Operative • Nelson Scott, Temporary Assistant Quarry Manager • “OUR PEOPLE ARE OUR GREATEST ASSET”

CONGRATULATIONS

PETER BARKWILL • Jody Bennett, Asphalt Business Manager • Robin Snow, Moons Hill Asphalt Plant Manager Chief Executive • George Beer, Moons Hill Asphalt Plant Supervisor • Mick Day, Avonmouth Assistant Asphalt Plant Manager •

FAREWELLS

• Ben Dormer, Quarry Manager • Calum Smith, Quarry Operative • Alex Witt, Surfacing Operative • Matthew Kirkwood, Viafix Plant Operative • Jason Jackson, Surfacing Foreman • Tadeusas Pumpalovicius, Asphalt Plant Operative • Mohammed Abdulgader, Asphalt Plant Operative • Daren Rollason, Surfacing Operative • Alastair Gibson, Assistant Quarry Manager • Mike Greenham, Quarry Operative • Gary Eagle, Surfacing Foreman • Stacey Howe, Sales Co- ordinator • Dennis Reynolds, Quarry Operative •

22 23 WAINWRIGHT’S QUARRY AFTER MORE THAN THREE DECADES OF MANAGER BEN DORMER “It’s a great sadness to lose Ben, who INVOLVEMENT, PETER BARKWILL HAS STEPPED Moving on HAS BEEN HEADHUNTED has been a much-valued colleague DOWN FROM HIS ROLES AS BRANCH COMMITTEE BY HANSON TO RUN at Wainwright,” said Operations MEMBER AND TREASURER FOR THE INSTITUTE OF THE REGION’S LARGEST Director Wayne McKeown. “The QUARRYING (IQ). QUARRY, WHATLEY fact a competitor has approached him with the offer of running a QUARRY. BEN HAS BEEN Since joining the Institute in the 1980s, Peter has held a number of coveted quarry like Whatley is a real tribute WITH WAINWRIGHT posts. These include chair of the finances, membership and general to his quality. We’ll miss him, but SINCE 2016 AND HAS purposes committee and chair of the IQ council. He also sat on the IQ’s we’re excited to see how his career MADE A REAL IMPACT board at national level and is a former chair of the West of England branch. shapes up in the future.” ON THE BUSINESS Mark Hughes, Chairman of the West of England branch (pictured with DURING HIS TENURE AT “I’ve greatly enjoyed my time with Peter), said: “Peter’s contribution and commitment to the success of IQ MOONS HILL. Wainwright, and feel sorry to be and the West of England branch have been massive. He has been an IQ moving on,” said Ben. “The chance member for 40 years, 33 of which as a branch committee member, 14 years Foremost among his achievements to step up to the next level is as branch secretary and 18 years as branch treasurer.” has been opening up Stoke Quarry tantalising, and Wainwright played (reported on pp 14 - 15). He also an important role in making sure I To show its appreciation of Peter’s dedication, the Institute presented him played an important role in securing was ready for this next phase in my with a piece of Bristol Blue Glass. planning permission for the new career. I will look back fondly and tips that will safeguard Wainwright’s with huge gratitude on my time with Peter said: “My IQ membership has brought me into contact with many quarrying operations over the next the company.” fantastic people. I have made many great friends through my involvement 10 years. at both branch and national committee level. The networking opportunities and knowledge transfer that I have experienced have been invaluable.”

QUARRY OPERATIVE ALAN James Thorne, Chief Executive Officer of the IQ, said: “Peter has committed CARPENTER RECENTLY RETIRED FROM a large part of his professional life to the Institute of Quarrying. It’s thanks Peter Barkwill steps WAINWRIGHT AFTER 16 YEARS WITH to passionate volunteers like him that IQ branches are so active, bringing THE COMPANY. people together from across the industry to share knowledge and network. On behalf of everyone at IQ, I thank Peter for everything he has achieved aside from IQ roles over the years.” A special farewell ceremony was held in the Wainwright kitchen, at which Peter Barkwill presented gifts to Alan and his wife Rachel. “Alan’s been a great asset to Wainwright over the years,” said Peter. “We shall miss him hugely as he leaves the company. We all wish him and Rachel well for the future.” Fond farewell for The picture show (left to right): Wayne McKeown, Tanya Gillard, Lisa Saunders, Kirsty Byrne, Chris Woodland, Marcia Beeching, Rachel Carpenter, Alan Carpenter, Peter quarry favourite Barkwill, Wayne Parker and Audris ‘Aldi’ Mejeris.

Welcome to OliverAshton HR initiatives bring

WAINWRIGHT’S NEW QUARRY MANAGER IS OLIVER ASHTON, new opportunities Contracting Director Lee Seviour with Senior WHO JOINED FROM HIS PREVIOUS ROLE AS PRODUCTION Estimator Daniel Grant. MANAGER AT HANSON’S WHATLEY QUARRY. PRIOR TO THAT, THE WORK OF WAINWRIGHT’S HUMAN Meanwhile, Wainwright’s popular E-learning platform has been OLIVER WORKED AS ASPHALT PLANT MANAGER AT WHATLEY RESOURCES DEPARTMENT CONTINUES updated, offering even more variety for staff members. A new AND TYTHERINGTON ASPHALT AND AS AN ASPHALT PLANT TO HAVE AN IMPACT ON THE COMPANY’S selection of courses is available, with every module bearing SUPERVISOR FOR MORRIS & PERRY. WORKING CULTURE. HIGHLIGHTS OF RECENT accreditation from the Institution of Occupational Safety and MONTHS INCLUDE THE INTRODUCTION Health (IOSH). Oliver brings extensive experience of the quarry industry and a real passion for Wainwright. OF A PILOT APPRAISAL SCHEME AND THE “I’m proud to be joining a company with such an illustrious history,” he said. “Wainwright “The work of the HR team is about making Wainwright the LAUNCH OF A NEW E-LEARNING SUITE. is a company that combines a strong sense of heritage with a forward-looking culture that is best possible employer,” said HR Director Lisa Saunders. “By ready to embrace new challenges. That makes it an inspiring company to join at this stage in introducing new ways of doing things, we ensure our workforce my career.” Following trials with a handful of employees, Performance is motivated, cared for and challenged to deliver. That feels like a Development Reviews (PDRs) will be arranged for every staff good recipe for a thriving workplace.” “We’re delighted to welcome Oliver to Wainwright,” said Operations Director Wayne McKeown. member in the coming year. They will be led by the relevant line “He has an impressive pedigree, and has already shown great enthusiasm for all that we stand manager, and provide an opportunity to monitor staff progress. for as a business.” 24 25 Apprentices on

course for success From left to right, Nathan Dix, Andrew Stretton and David Rexworthy

THREE WAINWRIGHT ASPHALT APPRENTICES their programme of training. Their success is richly deserved, and HAVE SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED THEIR I look forward to celebrating their completion of the programme PROGRAMMES, BRINGING TO AN END A with them.” TWO-YEAR PROCESS OF TRAINING AND FORMATION. Wainwright has pioneered a variety of apprenticeship programmes in recent years. In addition to the Asphalt Nathan Dix, Andrew Stretton and David Rexworthy all worked Apprentices, the company employs Lily Chant in the role of hard to combine academic study with work-based learning. They Business Administration Apprentice and Rory Bishop as an worked across Wainwright’s asphalt plants at Moons Hill and Apprentice Electrician. Avonmouth, developing their technical knowledge and skill and studying for a Certificate in Construction Materials from the “It’s vital that we secure a talent pipeline for our business, and University of Derby. the industry more widely,” said HR Director Lisa Saunders. “By attracting people to Wainwright at the start of their career, we’re Graduation day With guidance from Asphalt Business Manager Jody Bennett and able to train them into our culture and help them grow with the mentoring from Adrian Schreiber-Green, the apprentices have business. That way, we have employees who know our business WAINWRIGHT’S MANAGEMENT Topics covered in the training sessions included enjoyed expert tuition throughout their training. Speaking about and are committed to its continued success.” ACADEMY WAS AN 18-MONTH team work, leadership, giving feedback and their achievements, Adrian said: “Nathan, Andrew and David TRAINING PROGRAMME FOR ALL relationship building. They were grounded in have shown great dedication in meeting deadlines and following STAFF WITH LINE-MANAGEMENT practical exercises, and drew on the experiences RESPONSIBILITY of the participants to build on existing knowledge and develop best practice. When Wainwright launched its Management Meet the mentor: Academy in 2016, it was an important moment At the end of the process, the group had a wash- Five minutes with Adrian Schreiber-Green in the company’s history. Never before had up session in which they reflected on their Wainwright offered in-house management development over the course of 18 months and training for its staff. The move largely reflected identified goals for the future. A special ceremony “I have been in this industry for 49 Wainwright’s given me a fascinating mix of roles. I the increased size of the workforce, and the to mark their achievement is scheduled for the years and have worked in pretty much started as asphalt plant manager at Moons Hill, then “THIS WAS proliferation of employees with teams of people coming months. every role imaginable. I am proud to became Special Projects Manager. Now, my focus is WITHOUT to oversee. have spent a decade at Wainwright. on mentoring our cohort of apprentices, which feels DOUBT “I have to say that Simon is almost certainly It’s a very special company. like a good thing to do after a long career. THE MOST “It became clear that the most cost-effective way the best trainer I have encountered,” enthused of equipping and empowering our staff with Moons Hill Asphalt Plant Manager Robin Snow. It’s a pleasure to mentor Wainwright’s apprentices. Our apprentices have worked really hard to make INFORMATIVE, management responsibility would be to develop “The time simply flew by!” These people are our future. We need to invest in the grade. It’s a big commitment to combine work ENGAGING AND a training package that was tailored to our needs,” their training so that they grow with us, and build with study. But it definitely pays off. You learn a lot ENJOYABLE reported HR Director Lisa Saunders. “To do so, Ashphalt Business Manager Jody Bennett their careers in our company. better when it’s grounded in practice. agreed, saying: “This was without doubt the most TRAINING I’VE we commissioned Simon Hares of Serial Trainer 7: a local corporate training specialist known for informative, engaging and enjoyable training I’ve I’ve travelled a lot in the course of my career. I went All the time we can inspire the next generation, our RECEIVED.” his lively style and his ability to get results.” received. The content was excellently tailored to to Hong Kong on secondment in the 1980s and have industry has a future. We need to our needs. It helped galvanise the team and gave worked throughout the UK. I had roles in Bradford, make sure young people know just JODY BENNETT So the Wainwright Management Academy was us the knowledge and tools to take the business Leeds, London and Cornwall. Joining Wainwright how interesting the quarry industry ASPHALT BUSINESS born: a series of training sessions attended by all to another level.” was like coming home. I grew up in Somerset. It’s is to work in. It’s certainly given me MANAGER staff with line-management responsibility. where I belong. a lot of stimulation and satisfaction.

26 27 Going green

WAINWRIGHT HAS INTRODUCED A SUN TRAPS NUMBER OF ENERGY-SAVING INITIATIVES TO HELP REDUCE COST AND MAKE A set of photovoltaic panels has been installed on the roofs THE BUSINESS AS ENVIRONMENTALLY of storage units at Moons Hill asphalt plant. The panels are FRIENDLY AS POSSIBLE positioned to maximise exposure to sunlight throughout the day. According to Kevin Saunders’s estimates, they could save the company as much as £16,000 per year.

“We’ve used solar panels at Avonmouth ever since it opened, and they’ve delivered a tangible saving in our energy costs,” reported Operations Director Wayne McKeown. “By introducing them at Moons Hill, we’re maximising the benefits and helping to reduce Wainwright’s carbon footprint in the process. It’s a win-win.”

HEAT EXCHANGE

Heat generated during the asphalt production process will be recovered and reused to dry out aggregates if a new project being spearheaded by Business Improvement Manager Kevin Saunders and consultant Simon Lumkin gets the green light.

The Industrial Heat Recovery Support (IHRS) programme is a government-led initiative that encourages businesses to “IT’S GREAT TO SEE reduce waste in their use of energy. Successful applicants WAINWRIGHT PITCHING receive a grant to modify their equipment so that heat can be FOR OPPORTUNITIES recovered and repurposed. “BY SECURING OUR THAT PUT US AT THE DIGGING DEEP OWN SUPPLY OF Wainwright currently has an application in with the CUTTING EDGE OF WATER, WE REDUCE government to receive funding through the scheme. If GREEN INDUSTRY.” A new borehole at Avonmouth Asphalt is set to reduce successful, it could lead to a 5 per cent reduction in gas use at Wainwright’s on-site potable water consumption by as COST AND MINIMISE Avonmouth Asphalt – a significant saving over the course of much as 95 per cent. That’s equivalent to 29,000 litres OUR RELIANCE ON A KEVIN SAUNDERS a year. The initiative may extend to Moons Hill in the future. per year – bringing substantial cost savings. THIRD-PARTY SUPPLY.” BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT “This is an exciting project,” said Kevin Saunders. “It’s great to MANAGER “Asphalt production uses a lot of water,” explained see Wainwright pitching for opportunities that put us at the Simon Lumkin, who project-managed the construction SIMON LUMKIN cutting edge of green industry.” of the new borehole for Wainwright. “By securing our BUSINESS CONSULTANT own supply, we reduce cost and minimise our reliance on a third-party supply.”

28 29 Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!

SNOWFALL BROUGHT OPERATIONS AT AVONMOUTH AND MOONS HILL TO A STANDSTILL ON FRIDAY, 1 FEBRUARY, BECAUSE STAFF AND CUSTOMERS COULDN’T TRAVEL OVER DANGEROUS ROADS.

While the inclement weather was inconvenient from a trading perspective, it turned the landscape around Moons Hill into a winter wonderland. As these photographs show, staff who made it in were treated to some stunning scenery.

Fortunately, the snow was short-lived. Normal business resumed on the following Monday, and the trading deficit was soon overcome as customers caught up with their delayed workload.

Avonmouth opens doors, hundreds visit On the road to Lisa Saunders and Wayne McKeown greener motoring

AS PART OF WAINWRIGHT’S “The move to PHEVs makes a lot of sense MISSION TO MINIMISE from a personal and business perspective,” ITS IMPACT ON THE said Brian Rexworthy. “As individuals, we pay “WE’RE ENVIRONMENT, THREE less company car tax on these vehicles, and COMMITTED benefit from much improved efficiency. As a MEMBERS OF SENIOR TO MAKING The Wainwright Team at Avonmouth Asphalt MANAGEMENT HAVE MOVED company, Wainwright reduces running costs and National Insurance costs, as well as helping GREEN CHOICES TO PLUG-IN HYBRID ELECTRIC FOR THE SECOND YEAR RUNNING, Avonmouth’s team of asphalt operatives gave talks about minimise our impact on the environment. WHEREVER AVONMOUTH ASPHALT WAS OPEN TO the processes that take place at the plant. Meanwhile, COMPANY CARS. WE CAN, AND THE PUBLIC AS PART OF THE BRISTOL there was a display of quarry machinery and a series of “We’re committed to making green choices Financial Director Brian Rexworthy, OPEN DOORS EVENT. presentations from the Somerset Earth Science Centre. wherever we can, and our latest company car OUR LATEST Operations Director Wayne McKeown, and acquisitions bear that out. We hope to add to COMPANY CAR HR Director Lisa Saunders have all taken The open day, held on Saturday, 15 September 2018, “Bristol Open Doors is a great event, and we were pleased our fleet in the future by purchasing all-electric delivery of Mitsubishi Outlander PHEVs. The ACQUISITIONS attracted an estimated 400 visitors to Wainwright’s state- to be a part of it again in 2018,” said Financial Director vans for use when staff travel between Moons vehicle is the best-selling electric-hybrid in BEAR THAT OUT.” of-the-art asphalt facility. Staff from across the business Brian Rexworthy, who attended the event. “Wainwright Hill and Avonmouth. With charging points the UK, combining rugged SUV styling with were on hand to show visitors around and give them is committed to engaging with local communities. It’s installed at both sites, this initiative should fantastic fuel economy and minimal carbon insights into the aggregates and asphalt industry. nice to enshrine our relationship with Avonmouth and make a real difference to our carbon footprint BRIAN REXWORTHY NOx emissions. Bristol in this way.” and our operational costs.” FINANCIAL DIRECTOR

30 31 “THE ECG HELPS ENSURE WAINWRIGHT IS A HAPPY AND HEALTHY PLACE TO WORK.”

PETER BARKWILL Taking the heartbeat CHIEF EXECUTIVE of the workforce ECG reps from left to right: Lucy Goodship, Paul Bishop, Marcia Beeching, Kirsty Byrne

A NEW EMPLOYEE COMMUNICATIONS Wainwright’s decision making,” explained Kirsty. “The group has GROUP (ECG) HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED, a strong identity, and brings any thoughts or issues arising from GIVING THE WAINWRIGHT WORKFORCE the wider workforce forward for discussion and action.” A CHANCE TO ENGAGE DIRECTLY WITH SENIOR MANAGEMENT. The ECG also receives a briefing from a member of Wainwright’s senior management at every meeting. This gives an update about the business, reporting on its performance and any plans under The ECG meets regularly at the Somerset Earth Science Centre consideration that may affect employees. and includes representatives from every part of the business. HR Advisor Kirsty Byrne chairs proceedings, with Surfacing “It’s great to give staff a voice in the running of the company,” Litter volunteers Coordinator Paul Bishop taking minutes and arranging said Chief Executive Peter Barkwill. “I’ve much enjoyed bimonthly meetings. engaging with members of the ECG – they have a real interest in pick up again the business, and help ensure Wainwright is a happy and healthy “The ECG emerged from last year’s staff survey, in which place to work.” THE MENDIP QUARRY PRODUCERS colleagues said they would like to have more of a voice in (MQP) COMPLETED ANOTHER LITTER PICK IN APRIL 2019. AS WITH LAST YEAR, WAINWRIGHT TOOK A LEAD IN ORGANISING IT.

Following the success of 2018’s Mendip Quarry Producers- The fleet grows sponsored litter pick, Wainwright coordinated another clean- up operation for the week commencing Monday, 1 April 2019. WAINWRIGHT’S HAULAGE FLEET HAS GROWN TO 65 Teams from Wainwright, Hanson, Tarmac, Aggregate Industries VEHICLES – A FIGURE THAT and Morris & Perry were out on a daily rota, clearing rubbish OPERATIONS DIRECTOR from the roads and verges around the Mendips. WAYNE MCKEOWN EXPECTS The litter pick follows a route of 15 miles, though progress TO REACH 70 BY JUNE 2019. Litter pickers near Nunney Catch Roundabout depends on the quantity of litter encountered. This year, several

skips’ worth of rubbish was gathered throughout the week, MENDIP COUNCIL TWEET “With high-volume orders coming through along with larger items such as a sofa and a fridge freezer. our new Highways England work (see p. 4) and the ever-growing presence of “We had a team of seven to ten litter pickers out each day,” Wainwright Contracting in the region, we reported Wainwright Chief Executive Peter Barkwill, who need a haulage fleet that can keep up with conceived the idea of an industry-wide litter pick. “As with last demand,” said Wayne. “Our team of owner- year’s effort, the MQP shared the cost of traffic management drivers is committed to Wainwright, and and supplied equipment and food to keep the volunteers safe, many operate more than one vehicle for fed and happy. the company,’ reported Wayne. “By working together for growth, we can enhance their “It’s a significant undertaking, and I’m delighted that the quarry prosperity, and they can contribute to industry in the Mendips has pulled together once again to make Wainwright’s continued success.” such a positive contribution to our local environment.”

32 33 Stepping up to the future

WAINWRIGHT’S STEM AMBASSADORS PLAY A VITAL ROLE IN INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION.

A team of STEM Ambassadors has been trained as part of Wainwright’s partnership with the Mineral Products Qualifications Council (MPQC).

STEM Ambassadors visit schools and colleges to talk about their work in STEM-related sectors and inspire young people to consider studying subjects like science, mathematics and technology. Workshop raises mental The MPQC trained Wainwright’s team at the Somerset Earth Science Centre. As part of the process, participants were encouraged to talk health awareness about the challenge and stimulation of their work in the extractives industry. They were also given a chance to try out a number of activities ON TUESDAY, 19 MARCH 2019 WAINWRIGHT own mental health, to look out for signs of mental illness in each other, that can be used to engage students and young people. HELD A MENTAL HEALTH WORKSHOP IN and to take care of the emotional health and mental health as well as THE SOMERSET EARTH SCIENCE CENTRE, their physical wellbeing. Wainwright’s ambassadors come from across the business, reflecting ATTRACTING NEARLY A HALF OF THE the range of roles in the company. The line-up includes operational COMPANY’S WORKFORCE IN THE COURSE OF “The suicide rate for men in construction is three times the national staff, managers, office-based colleagues, and representatives from the THE DAY. average,” said Operations Director Wayne McKeown. “That makes Somerset Earth Science Centre. it vital that we do all we can to support our largely male workforce in feeling comfortable about discussing mental health issues. That The workshop offered interactive quizzes and general information to way, we establish a positive culture in which staff feel supported and “The training was a huge success, and we all learned a huge amount,” raise awareness of mental health. It encouraged staff to talk about their reported Dr Gill Odolphie, Somerset Earth Science Centre Manager. nurtured, even when they are going through difficult times.” “We’re working hard to build relationships with local schools and colleges, and it’s great to have a team of people in Wainwright who can deliver inspiring talks and experiences for the next generation.”

WAINWRIGHT’S STEM AMBASSADOR TEAM

“WE’RE WORKING HARD Jody Bennett, Asphalt Business Manager TO BUILD RELATIONSHIPS Adel Avery, Education Officer, Somerset Earth Science Centre WITH LOCAL SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, AND IT’S GREAT Kirsty Byrne, HR Advisor TO HAVE A TEAM OF PEOPLE Lee Seviour, Contracting Director IN WAINWRIGHT WHO CAN DELIVER INSPIRING TALKS Lisa Saunders, HR Director Viafix round up AND EXPERIENCES FOR THE Dr Gill Odolphie, Manager, Somerset Earth Science Centre NEXT GENERATION.” WAINWRIGHT’S VIAFIX BUSINESS In other news, a heated container has been installed in which CONTINUES TO DEVELOP, WITH DEMAND to warm binder. “Combined with our extension, it doubles our Ian Sweetman, Technical Officer DR GILL ODOLPHIE INCREASING FOR THE INNOVATIVE daily output from 50 tonnes to 100 tonnes,” reported Viafix Manager Peter Thomas. Kevin Saunders, Business Improvement Manager SOMERSET EARTH SCIENCE POTHOLE REPAIR MATERIAL. CENTRE MANAGER Tim May, Sales Coordinator The Viafix production building has recently been extended to In a reflection of the growing stature of the product, Wainwright increase cooling capacity. With two cooling bays, it is easier for has now serviced three orders for export to Australia. “The the team to make materials to more than one specification in the most recent order was on 26 March,” said Peter. “We sent two course of a day. containers of 6mm Viafix, which shows the popularity of the material around the globe.”

34 35 AN UPDATE FROM Somerset Earth Science Centre

THE EARTH SCIENCE CENTRE HAS REACHED OUT TO A WIDER VARIETY OF PEOPLE THAN EVER BEFORE.

HERE ARE SOME HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE LAST YEAR.

36 37 SOMERSET EARTH Mendip Rocks goes Education outreach SCIENCE CENTRE with a swing programme grows

“IT WAS GREAT TO WELCOME SO MANY PEOPLE TO THE EARTH SCIENCE CENTRE AND TO ENGAGE WITH THE LOCAL QUARRY INDUSTRY”

ADEL AVERY EDUCATION OFFICER, SESC ONE OF THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES FOR THE SOMERSET EARTH SCIENCE CENTRE HAS BEEN TO INCREASE ITS ENGAGEMENT WITH LOCAL SECONDARY Highlights from the 2018 festival included a family fun day at SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES. National Nature Reserve near Wells, a day for local schoolchildren at , followed by a family fun Alongside an ongoing focus on offering learning experiences day at which visitors had the chance to make their own piece of for primary age children, the centre is engaging with older limestone rock, and a number of guided walks in which experts pupils and students, who may enter the workforce in the gave a geological commentary about landmarks such as Fairy coming few years. Cave and . “We’ve established a number of valuable relationships with THE ANNUAL MENDIP ROCKS FESTIVAL The biggest event for the Earth Science Centre was an open day, local schools and colleges,” reported Centre Manager Dr TOOK ON A NEW FORMAT FOR 2018, held on Wednesday, 29 August. Around 150 people came to the Gill Odolphie. “In the last 12 months, we’ve run activities ATTRACTING MORE VISITORS THAN EVER. centre to enjoy clay fossil making, craft activities and a guided with providers such as College, Wells Blue School, walk around the woods that recounted the history of the world’s and Norton Hill School. We’ve welcomed students from The annual geology festival is organised by the Somerset Earth geology. The team took more than 60 visitors for a tour of nearby the University of Oxford and Reading Blue Coat School, Science Centre, Mendip Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Whatley Quarry. This helped raise awareness of the important and helped shape a branding project for creative industries and the Mendip Society. Traditionally lasting for the month of work quarry operators do, paying particular attention to their students at UWE Bristol. October, this year’s festival started in August and continued for care of the environment. three months. “In every case, our focus is on informing the next generation “It was great to welcome so many people to the Earth Science about the wealth of opportunities available in quarrying and “The number of people interacting with Mendip Rocks in 2018 Dr Gill Odolphie with a student at Wells Blue School Centre and to engage with the local quarry industry,” said related industries.” was around 4,000,” reported Adel Avery, Education Officer at the Adel. “Events like this are an important part of our outreach on “It’s really important that the Earth Science Centre Earth Science Centre. “That’s the biggest outreach we’ve recorded As well as focusing on school leavers, the Earth Science behalf of the quarry companies who fund us. They make a big contributes to the industry that supports it by inspiring in the festival’s history.” Centre has teamed up with staff at Wainwright to inspire difference to the general public’s perception of what happens in young people to pursue a career in quarrying,” said Lisa young women in particular to consider a career in the quarries.” Saunders. “By establishing strong connections with local One of the standout features of Mendip Rocks is that it provides quarrying. Working alongside HR Director Lisa Saunders visitors with access to locations that are not usually open to the education providers, we’re able to speak directly to students Mendip Rocks came to a close on Sunday, 28 October with and HR Advisor Kirsty Byrne, centre staff have spoken to public. What is more, it offers expert insights into the formation and their teachers, helping raise awareness of our companies a series of talks at the Wells and Mendip Museum. Speakers local students about their own careers in the industry, and and human use of the distinctive Mendips landscapes – giving and show just how stimulating and varied a career with us included experts such as Professor Chris King and Dr Doug given insights into the potential roles available. local people a better understanding of their environment. c an b e .” Robinson who shared their knowledge with local enthusiasts.

38 39 How’s it hanging? SOMERSET EARTH SCIENCE CENTRE

THE EARTH SCIENCE CENTRE ENHANCED LAST SUMMER’S CHEER BY INVITING WAINWRIGHT STAFF OVER FOR A HANGING- BASKET-MAKING SESSION WITH Pupils dig A TWIST: RATHER THAN USING CONVENTIONAL PLANTERS, THE BASKETS WERE UNWANTED HARD VR excavator HATS FROM THE QUARRY!

18 staff participated in the sessions over two lunchtimes in June 2018. The fruits of their labours were displayed around the centre and at Moons Hill, brightening the day for visitors and staff alike.

A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN WAINWRIGHT, THE SOMERSET EARTH SCIENCE CENTRE AND THE MINERAL Wildlife watch PRODUCTS QUALIFICATIONS COUNCIL (MPQC) HAS LED TO A VIRTUAL REALITY (VR) EXCAVATOR MAKING ITS “IT’S A REALLY ABSORBING, inspires youngsters WAY TO MOONS HILL. MULTI-SENSORY EXPERIENCE THAT IS SURE TO APPEAL TO The simulator uses the latest technology to give users a real- PEOPLE OF ALL AGES.” world experience of driving a piece of heavy plant. Linked to a flat-screen TV and a full VR headset with realistic TIM GIBSON controls, the system mimics the experience of loading a dumper truck with materials from an excavated site. COMMUNICATIONS ADVISOR

“We’re taking the simulator out to local schools and colleges as part of our careers programme,” explained Wainwright’s HR Director Lisa Saunders. “The idea is to inspire young people by giving them a chance to get hands-on with a piece of high-tech kit. So far, the reaction from all users has been really positive.” A FAMILY WILDLIFE WATCH GROUP MEETS AT When not on tour, the simulator will be available for use in THE EARTH SCIENCE CENTRE EACH MONTH, the Earth Science Centre, where it has already garnered the OFFERING A CHANCE TO INSPIRE YOUNG PEOPLE attention of visitors. WITH A LOVE OF THE NATURAL WORLD.

Speaking about his experience on the VR excavator, The group, which is organised by the Somerset Wildlife Trust and the Wainwright’s Communications Advisor Tim Gibson said: centre team, pursues a variety of activities, including wildlife spotting, “It’s a really absorbing, multi-sensory experience that is quarry tours, wildflower planting and nature walks. A particular highlight sure to appeal to people of all ages. It’s great that the MPQC of last year’s programme was the sight of two Peregrine Falcons swooping should release the technology for use locally. I think it will over Westbury Sub Mendip Quarry during a tour led by local councillor, greatly enhance the work Wainwright and the Earth Science and former quarry manager, Nigel Taylor. Centre are doing with local education providers.”

40 41 WAINWRIGHT FUTURES ST ALDHELM’S PRIMARY FOUNDATION SCHOOL, Outdoor classroom

COLEFORD FLOWER AND BUMBLEBEE CRAFT SHOW CONSERVATION TRUST

SOMERSET EARTH PROJECTS AND ORGANISATIONS SCIENCE CENTRE MENDIP BUSINESS AWARDS SUPPORTED BY THE WAINWRIGHT FUTURES FOUNDATION. FAIRFIELD COLLEGE 2018-19 SPLOTT ALBION FC

Securing the future, CRANMORE CRICKET CLUB MID SOMERSET sharing success AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY

MENDIP ROCKS SINCE BEING ESTABLISHED IN 2016 TO MARK WAINWRIGHT’S 125TH THE WAINWRIGHT FUTURES FOUNDATION: A GUIDE ANNIVERSARY, THE WAINWRIGHT FUTURES FOUNDATION HAS DONATED SHEPTON MALLET The Wainwright Futures Foundation was established MANY THOUSANDS OF POUNDS TO ROTARY CLUB in 2016 CAUSES AND CHARITIES LOCATED NEAR FIREWORKS ITS OPERATIONS IN STOKE ST MICHAEL The Foundation receives 2p per tonne of aggregate sold by Wainwright AND AVONMOUTH. It also receives 100 per cent of the income from The Foundation provides a way for the company to share its Wainwright’s anniversary book, Our Story: One success and build on the legacy of good works and philanthropy Hundred and Twenty Five Years of Quarrying (2016) established by its founders in the nineteenth century. STOKE ST MICHAEL The Foundation supports local causes that contribute “I’m proud of the contribution of the Futures Foundation,” FOOTBALL PAVILION to community flourishing or enhance the environment commented Peter Barkwill. “It is gratifying to see local

causes benefiting from Wainwright’s support. It enshrines The committee has four members: Peter Barkwill, our commitment to the communities of which we are a part Brian Rexworthy, John Squier and Tim Gibson and shows the positive contribution we can make to both the SHEPTON MALLET

natural and the human environment in our vicinity.” SHOWGROUND Applications for grants should be directed to Joni Stoker: [email protected]

42 43