Rockface Remembering our future ROCKFACE ISSUE SEVENTEEN

welcome

Editorial HELLO

Editor: Tim Gibson John Wainwright & Co. Ltd Editorial Consultant: Joni Stoker Moons Hill Quarry, Mendip Road Stoke St Michael, Radstock Design & Print , BA3 5JU

New Century Design 01749 840274 www.newcenturydesign.co.uk [email protected]

2 A NOTE FROM PETER

Remembering our future – our theme for the year

A few months ago, I met one of Wainwright’s longstanding customers. Of course, financial success is only one measure of our health as a The conversation soon turned to why he chooses our business over company. An important focus for this year has been our environmental competition from the larger corporate players in our industry. responsibilities. We’ve established an environmental committee, begun the process of measuring our carbon footprint, and identified His view was simple: “With Wainwright, I receive exceptional and opportunities to mitigate our impact on the planet. seamless service.” These are all vital steps if we are to preserve the future of Wainwright, I feel as proud to write those words as I did to hear them. As a and the landscape of which we are a part. They involve action at a summary of what we do, I believe they are very near the mark. We go corporate and individual level, making the right decisions for the good the extra mile for customers, always striving to do right by them and of our environment. working to the highest standards. At the same time, we need to continue inspiring the next generation I took that conversation as a sign that Wainwright is living up to my to enter our industry and pursue a career with us. That is why I am expectations. It is the company that all of us long for it to be: one where so pleased to see dumper driver Sophie Cotterell on the cover of this people do the right thing, because they recognise that this is the path issue. At the age of 22, Sophie is one of our youngest colleagues, and is to success. already mapping her future with Wainwright.

And what success we can enjoy when we pull together. After the Thanks to activities like our staff surveys and Employee record-breaking performance of 2018-19, we’ve enjoyed another strong Communications Group, we will continue to empower our people to half to the current trading period. With a healthy order book for the shape Wainwright’s culture. They have a direct stake in our success, a winter months ahead, thanks in no small part to high-profile work for sense of ownership over a brand that is now entering its 129th year. the likes of Highways , Council and BANES, and regular night shifts, we’re shaping up for another strong set of As the stories on these pages demonstrate, Wainwright’s is a positive figures in April 2020. story in a fast-changing world. That is the strength of our unique brand: we are inspired by our past, and excited by our future. This is especially encouraging when you consider the tough economic headwinds that many businesses are experiencing. There is a lot of uncertainty in the economy at the moment, and the construction industry is especially vulnerable. But Wainwright appears to be weathering the storm. Our customers are sticking with us, because they know we will stick with them. Peter Barkwill, Chief Executive

3 Supplying vital infrastructure projects for Highways England

For the last year, Wainwright has been a key part of the Highways England supply chain, delivering materials to vital projects throughout the South West.

You may feel as if you’ve seen Wainwright’s “The contractor working on site, lorries with more regularity around major Toppesfield, gave great feedback on the road works in the South West. And the quality of our product and the supply chances are you have. process went really smoothly.”

The company is now a part of the Highways Wainwright’s Technical Director Andy England supply chain on a contract serviced Robinson agrees, saying: “I can’t emphasise by FM Conway, meaning our materials are enough how much of a team effort this has being laid on major resurfacing schemes been for Wainwright. across the region. “Everyone has played an important role After reaching an arrangement with FM in servicing these high-profile contracts, Conway in the autumn of 2018, we supplied including ordering, transport and planning, more than 10,000 tonnes of asphalt to be used the asphalt production teams, weighbridge on Junctions 20 and 21 of the southbound and technical. M5. “By working together, we’ve made a real Since then, the orders have continued to flow, impact on these schemes, and established our making a major contribution to Wainwright’s place in a prestigious supplier community. trading success. It’s making a significant contribution to our business success.” For example, in August and September 2019, Wainwright Asphalt supplied a total of The next opportunity will provide a fresh 1,872.28 tonnes of asphalt for use on the M5 challenge to Wainwright’s people. It involves at Junction 18A near Avonmouth. Then in supplying asphalt to a scheme on the M5 near October 2019, we supplied a further 2,255.92 Worcester: the furthest our materials will have tonnes for use on the A303 at Mere, Wiltshire. been delivered.

“Both of these projects went really well,” You’re likely to see a lot more of Wainwright’s reports Sales Office Supervisor Alicia Short. lorries in the months ahead, and as our geographical reach extends, they will be much further afield.

4

Putting safety onPutting the safety mapon the map

6 Wainwright’s Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) Manager is committed to excellence. Which makes him a perfect fit for our business.

Matt Bishop knows a thing or two about Introducing safety Targeting a healthier, working in a friendly but ambitious quarrying initiatives greener future business. He was an employee of Foster Yeoman for many years, and learned a lot Of course, adding to Wainwright’s trophy As someone who is used to driving change, about the merits of a people-centred company cabinet isn’t the most important measure of Matt has clear ambitions for the coming culture. Matt’s success. That comes from ensuring the months. He wants to develop Wainwright’s safety of our workforce. approach to Risk Management, ensuring that “I worked at Yeoman’s for 17 years, and then every member of the team knows how to spent a further 13 years with Aggregate With that in mind, he has already introduced identify risks and act accordingly. Industries once they took the business over,” a range of initiatives to enhance our he reports. “I always valued the ethos of performance. “This will involve training, workshops and a Foster Yeoman: we were a close-knit team, commitment to shaping employee behaviour,” committed to delivering for the company.” “Our Haulier Inductions are a case in point,” he says. “Everyone in our business needs to he says. “These are a chance to get face to face be aware of their personal and professional It is easy to see why Wainwright appealed to with a key part of our workforce and shape responsibility in managing risk. That’s the Matt, therefore. “I was drawn by the family their habits around safety compliance. They’ve route to a safer, happier and more empowered feel of this business,” he says. “There’s a real been really well received. Not only do they workforce.” warmth to Wainwright, a sense that we’re enhance safety, but they also provide a chance united by a common purpose. At the same to make connections with the hauliers, who In addition, Matt is targeting Dust time, there’s a commitment to excellence and are the public face of our business.” Management as another area of focus. growth, which is exactly how I feel successful “Our quarry has a high silica content, so it’s businesses should operate.” Matt has also started issuing Health and Safety important that we give our workforce the best A practical approach Alerts that inform employees and the wider possible protection from dust inhalation,” supply chain about pressing safety matters. he says. “Our practice in this area is already These take the form of emailed newsletters, good, but I want to make it excellent.” Matt’s is a prosaic approach to the task of detailing areas of concern, development or managing health and safety compliance. A best practice. Finally, Matt has been charged with former Asphalt Plant Manager, he relishes scoping and identifying ways of managing getting out and about in the business and “Communication is an important part of this Wainwright’s Carbon Footprint. He says this forming relationships of mutuality and trust role,” he says. “It’s about informing people is one of the most interesting challenges of with colleagues. of risks and shaping behaviours to mitigate all: “Every business in the UK has got to be them. You have to make connections with proactive when it comes to minimising our Recent months have given him a great people if you’re to keep them out of harm’s impact on the environment. opportunity to establish such relationships, way.” because he’s been acting as Assistant Quarry “It’s great that Wainwright is taking the green Manager alongside his SHE Manager duties. One way of doing this is through Toolbox agenda so seriously, and I’m excited to play a “This has given me a great chance to learn Talks, where Matt and colleagues such as part in helping us shape a brighter future for about Wainwright from the ground up,” he HR Director Lisa Saunders head out to our planet and future generations.” says. “I feel like I’ve got under the skin of the Wainwright’s operational areas and offer company and that’s really helped me form a short workshops for colleagues. “These strategy for our safety management.” exercises allow me to take the temperature of the workforce, as well as imparting crucial One thing that Matt feels proud of is safety advice,” he says. “They’re invaluable in Wainwright’s history in health and safety performing my role successfully.” management. “I remember the company winning the John Crabbe Memorial Trophy for Excellence in Health and Safety some years ago,” he says. “I’ve set us a goal of winning a similar accolade in the months ahead.”

7 Sophie’s World

22-year-old Sophie “I think it would be amazing to control Cotterell isn’t your the excavator,” she says. “There’s such skill involved, and you have to show really good average quarry worker. judgment about where to work. The challenge But she’s blazing a trail of that really appeals to me.” for others to follow, It is clear that Sophie sees herself continuing and loving every minute to progress with Wainwright. “It is a really of pursuing her dreams friendly and caring company to work for,” she says. “I can honestly say that I’d be happy to When we meet Sophie Cotterell in the quarry spend the rest of my working life here. I think canteen at Moons Hill, one thing is obvious. that would be a really good thing to do.” Here is a young woman of considerable initiative, who is already making a mark on That is not to say Sophie lacks ambition, Wainwright with her can-do attitude and mind you. She’s already expressed a desire proactive approach. to develop her skills and says she’d love to work in a supervisory role one day. “I enjoy Such an approach was in evidence before being out in the quarry and hands-on with Sophie even joined the business. A former the rock,” she says. “But a job that keeps me delivery driver for Tuffnells, she’d travelled out here, perhaps helping to manage the around the area frequently and seen workforce, would be really stimulating.” Wainwright’s lorries on the local roads. The beauty of a company like Wainwright is “I have a friend who works in the quarrying that there’s every opportunity for Sophie to industry, and I kept on seeing Wainwright’s realise her ambitions. It’s a business renowned trucks,” Sophie reports. “So I decided to send for long service, where staff relish the culture the company an email to ask if there were any of mutuality and professionalism, and have jobs going.” every opportunity to flourish.

The answer Sophie received caught her by “I’d definitely tell other young women of my surprise. She was invited to an interview for a age to consider a career with Wainwright,” job as a dumper driver in the quarry. All went says Sophie. “Obviously everyone is different, well on the day she visited and Sophie was but if I rewind back to myself at 16, I’d never offered the job without delay. have believed I’d be spending my days driving a dumper around a quarry in the Mendips.” “I couldn’t believe it when I heard the news,” she says. “The quarry is a very male All of which goes to show: there’s a job out environment and I thought they’d worry about there for everyone. And when you find it, as me fitting in. But I was welcomed with open Sophie believes she has, it makes you very arms. Wainwright even installed a ladies’ loo fulfilled indeed. in the workshop for me to use!”

The company’s confidence in Sophie has proved well founded. She started in January 2019 and took to dumper driving like a duck to water. Now, she’s learning how to control a loading shovel, but has already set her sights on piloting the large Volvo excavator.

8 9 Avonmouth secures environmental accreditation The team at Avonmouth Asphalt is celebrating after securing the world’s most recognised accreditation for environmental management

An assessment on Tuesday, 12 November 2019 confirmed that the site has fulfilled all of the requirements for BSI ISO 14001: 2015. This British Standard audits organisations for environmental management systems, helping them develop best practice in areas such as waste, energy use, emissions and water consumption.

Wainwright’s Moons Hill Complex is already accredited to BSI ISO 14001, so Avonmouth’s successful audit further enhances the company’s environmental credentials.

Securing the accreditation has involved a two-year process of internal audits, ensuring every aspect of Avonmouth’s environmental management systems meets the stringent criteria.

“The Avonmouth team has worked really hard to secure 14001 accreditation,” says Operations Director Wayne McKeown. “It’s a major boost for our reputation and will bring us a competitive edge when pitching for work.

“More importantly, it enshrines our commitment across the business to doing the right thing by the environment. That’s a major focus for Wainwright, and I’m delighted to see Avonmouth playing a crucial part in our quest to burnish our green credentials.”

10 (From left to right): David Rexworthy, Mick Day, Ryan Bartlett (at rear), Robert Hawkings, Joe Robinson.

11 A new face for sales

12 Clare Vigus joins Wainwright with a strong pedigree in sales. She tells us why she’s excited to be a part of our team

“I’ve known Wainwright for a very long time. Joining a strong team It’s a business that always seems friendly, professional and ambitious. So far, it’s more “I feel like I’ve had a long career in and than living up to that reputation.” around this industry,” Clare says, “and Wainwright is such a strong brand that it’s a So says Clare Vigus, Wainwright’s new Field pleasure to be a part of it. I’ve never worked Sales Manager, who joined the company in in such a busy sales environment, and I’m October 2019 after years in the construction so impressed by the skill, dedication and materials industry. knowledge of the team.

“I wasn’t really looking for a change of “We’re supplying a mix of high-profile job,” Clare reports, “but I heard about the contracts such as the Highways England opportunity to join Wainwright and thought schemes [see pp 4–5) and independent it was too good to miss. I’m really looking operators. That makes it vital that we establish forward to being a part of the team here.” strong relationships with all of our customer base, delivering value, quality and service at Years of experience every level.”

Clare’s pedigree in the industry is impressive, Clare is convinced that this commitment to say the least. She joined H. Haeffner & Co. to service marks Wainwright out from its straight from school, working as a pigment competitors. “You really feel as if Wainwright specialist and progressing through its ranks to lives up to its promises,” she remarks. “I become a sales representative on the road. thought that as someone who knew the company from the outside, and now I know it Next, Clare moved to Excel Industries, where to be true from the inside. This is a great team, she oversaw the sale of SMA fibres to the working hard to deliver success.” asphalt industry. She then moved to Francis Flower, where she worked as Sales Manager Building relationships for nearly 12 years, specialising in limestone filler. When not working, Clare is a keen rugby fan, supporting her native Wales. She also has A brief spell in New Zealand finished with a two lively dogs who require regular exercise. job as Technical Sales Rep for BASF NZ and “They certainly keep us fit,” she remarks, “and Clare then returned to Francis Flower’s Sales give a lovely distraction from the pressures of and Marketing Team in the UK. A move to professional life.” OCL Regeneration developed her knowledge of cold-lay asphalt, and it was from here that That said, Clare is relishing getting stuck she joined Wainwright. into life at Wainwright. “My job is all about building relationships,” she concludes. “I’m loving the opportunity to represent such a great company, and work as part of a strong and supportive team. The future feels very exciting indeed.”

13 Wainwright Voices – our people, our company, our future

Laying foundations for success

14 In the first of a new series written by Wainwright’s staff, Contracting Director Lee Seviour recounts a busy year for his division, paying tribute to the people who make it all possible.

I could start my reflections on the past 12 months for Wainwright Sharing success Contracting by drawing attention to the big contracts we have secured with Volker highways in Bath & North East Somerset Council The thing that really inspires me about working for Wainwright is (BANES) and Skanska working for North Somerset District Council. the extent to which we can make a positive contribution to local communities. We work hard to make the company profitable. It is a These contracts have led to some challenging and high profile projects source of considerable satisfaction to share some of that success with in which Wainwright has shown the full extent of our capabilities. worthwhile causes.

But instead, I want to tell the story of our people. The ones who work This year, for example, we’ve been kit sponsors for Collegians hard to ensure Wainwright consistently delivers on its promises. The AFC’s youth and adult teams and supported the Beckington Ball. ones who go the extra mile to help customers and colleagues alike, Thanks in part to our sponsorship, the ball raised £30,000 for the working additional hours, and giving their time and energy to support Forever Friends Appeal, helping to fund a new cancer centre at the worthwhile causes. Royal United Hospitals in Bath.

I couldn’t do my job without the support of these people. Wainwright The community activity I feel most proud of is our connection with Contracting wouldn’t have experienced the growth of the last year Lisa’s Army, a charity set up in honour of a young mother who died without their efforts. And we wouldn’t have been in a position to give from cancer this year. We sponsor the charity and feature its logo on back to our community by sponsoring local sports clubs, donating to one of our pavers. Every time I see it, I am reminded of the positive charity and supporting fundraising events. difference Wainwright makes to the wider community.

A committed team A year of growth

Working for Wainwright is a great privilege. We are a family business, To continue providing such support, we need to continue our growth with the professionalism and aspiration to think big. We deliver as a business. That is why I am pleased to see our company winning with competence and conscientiousness and our clients value our a number of local authority contracts, alongside our work for commitment to doing the right thing. independent companies.

As I look around the growing team at Wainwright Contracting, I Our recent purchase of a road planer brings a new strand to our see these values helping to shape our culture. My colleague Matthew operation, enabling us to remove planings from a road surface and Moore, our Operations Manager – Contracting, is a case in point. He deliver them to Wainwright Asphalt as Recycled Asphalt Planings has years of experience in our industry, working at every level from the (RAPs). The use of these in an asphalt mix reduces consumption of ground up. He treats Wainwright as if it were his own company, always bitumen and enhances our environmental credentials. So as well as looking to drive value for our clients and deliver the very best service. adding another string to Wainwright Contracting’s bow, it helps make the whole company greener and more efficient. Matthew has played an important role in our growth over the last 12 months. He has been instrumental in scoping and delivering the That is the future for our business: to contribute to Wainwright’s high profile schemes we’ve worked on, including Winterstoke Road flourishing and help secure a bright future. It is a future I am proud to in Weston-super-Mare and Phillis Hill in Paulton. We received letters be a part of, and feel inspired by every single day. of thanks and congratulation for both of these projects, because we delivered an efficient service that minimised disruption and provided the best possible value. I pay tribute to Matthew and his team for their role in this.

Opposite (clockwise from top left): Supporting Lisa’s Army; Frome Collegians; Lisa’s Army logo on a paver; Handover of cheque from Beckington Ball; Richard Coleman (left) and Matthew Moore.

15 The Future is in our hands

Wainwright takes its responsibility to the planet seriously. As part of our continued pursuit of a green agenda, we’ve established an environmental steering group and are pursuing a number of ecological initiatives. Here’s a run down of our progress.

16 Environment Committee sets vision

Wainwright’s new environment committee has been tasked with establishing a vision for the company’s care of the planet.

It has a wide-ranging brief that looks at every aspect of our operations. To begin with, the focus is on establishing the size of our carbon footprint and finding ways to mitigate it. As a part of this, the committee is analysing factors such as energy use, emissions, business efficiency and company vehicle policies.

The committee consists of Chief Executive Peter Barkwill, Operations Director Wayne McKeown, Contracting Director Lee Seviour, Communications Director Tim Gibson, SHE Manager Matt Bishop and Business Optimisation Manager Kevin A partnership for the planet Saunders. It will draw on expertise and insight from colleagues throughout Wainwright and beyond as the need arises. Wainwright is pleased to announce a deepening of our corporate partnership with Somerset Wildlife Trust (SWT). We have In addition, the committee will engage with the Employee worked with the charity for a number of years, helping enhance Communications Group (ECG) in order to establish a staff-led biodiversity and supporting volunteer days. Now, SWT is environmental policy and instil positive behaviours among the advising Wainwright on steps to minimise carbon emissions and workforce. our impact on the environment. “We all have a responsibility to protect and preserve our planet,” SWT will help Wainwright work out the best way to use its says Peter Barkwill. “There is a certain amount of carbon land to offset and sequester carbon. Examples of initiatives production that comes as part of our core business activities. that help include sowing wildflower meadows (something We therefore need a strategy that mitigates the risk and offsets that Wainwright has already done on the site of its South Tip), our ecologic impact. Establishing a proactive environment planting trees and encouraging wildlife. committee is a part of this process.”

Moreover, Peter Barkwill is spearheading a partnership between So far, the committee has met twice, identifying areas of focus the Mendip Quarry Producers (MQP) to fund a conservation and driving a carbon impact assessment. Matt Bishop and Kevin post that will be administered through SWT. If successful, the Saunders are leading on this process, and believe they are close appointee will help local quarry companies work together to to modelling Wainwright’s carbon footprint for the last financial create “wildlife corridors” that link their landholdings. This will year. help a range of species to thrive, bringing environmental benefits to the whole area. “This model gives us confidence that we can measure our carbon output over a 12-month trading period,” says Kevin. “That means we can identify areas to focus on in reducing and offsetting our carbon emissions, making a positive impact as soon as possible.”

17 18 Innovative heat exchange project gets underway

Work has begun on Wainwright’s innovative project to enhance the efficiency of Avonmouth Asphalt.

Following the successful award of a £56,000 grant from the government, we are leading the way in designing, installing and testing technology that conserves heat from the asphalt-production process and transfers it for use in drying aggregates.

The grant has been paid as part of the Industrial Heat Recovery Support (IHRS) programme and is predicated upon Wainwright sharing any expertise gained as a result of the project.

Business Optimisation Manager Kevin Saunders and Business Consultant Simon Lumkin are leading on the project. Kevin says he expects the installation to be complete by the end of 2019.

“This is an exciting project for Wainwright, which stands to save us money and enhance our care of the environment,” he reports.

“If it proves a success, we may look to roll similar technology out at Moons Hill, and the wider industry will certainly benefit from our learning. It’s a further example of Wainwright leading the way in green technology.”

Electrification strategy picks up pace

A move to adopting electric vehicles has gathered pace thanks to the recent acquisition of Wainwright’s first 100pc electric company car.

From early 2020, Financial Director Brian Rexworthy will take delivery of a Jaguar iPace. This vehicle generates zero local emissions and is widely regarded as one of the best real-world electric vehicles available in the UK.

The Jaguar adds to Wainwright’s fleet of green cars, which includes three Mitsubishi PHEVs and a BMW plug-in hybrid vehicle. In addition, we have recently started a trial of electric vans, with a view to minimising emissions between Moons Hill and Avonmouth.

“Electrification is a smart way forward for our business,” says Brian. “We will be installing more charging points at our premises over the coming months, and encouraging all staff to make green choices when it comes to replacing company vehicles.”

19 Wainwright makes the news

In a reflection of our burgeoning status as an industry leader in environmental care, John Wainwright and Company Ltd has featured in a series of online articles about sustainability, published by The Daily Telegraph.

Welcome back, Ben!

We are pleased to welcome Ben Dormer back to Wainwright, reprising his role as Quarry Manager. Ben left Wainwright earlier in 2019 to The pieces are published on a content hub sponsored by Renault Pro+, join Hanson as Quarry Manager at Renault’s commercial vehicle division. They encourage engagement Whatley. But he has decided to return with electric-vehicle technology, and give businesses advice on the best to Wainwright, valuing its family ethos ways to green their operations. and the challenge and stimulation of working for an independent company. Chief Executive Peter Barkwill and HR Director Lisa Saunders have been quoted in the campaign. They offer advice to other “It’s a great joy to welcome Ben back Wainwright News Wainwright businesspeople about driving a greener future, electrifying a company to our team,” says Operations Director vehicle fleet and building a sustainable brand. Wayne McKeown. “He made a real impression during his first tenure “It’s great to see Wainwright receiving coverage in the mainstream with us, and we feel he can bring the national media,” says Communications Director Tim Gibson, who strategic direction and leadership that also works with Renault and Telegraph Media on the project. “It shows we need to continue developing our a company that’s on the move, leading the way when it comes to quarry operations.” preserving our planet and setting an agenda for the future.”

Driving down cost, enhancing efficiency

As part of our continuing effort to enhance efficiency and reduce cost, Wainwright has negotiated two significant supply contracts over recent months.

Business Optimisation Manager Kevin Saunders has taken a lead in negotiating a new energy contract, helping to drive down a substantial cost for the business.

In addition, he has set up a new work wear contract, including a regular replacement cycle that ensures operational staff are kept safe and properly attired.

“These two contracts will save Wainwright tens of thousands of pounds a year,” says Kevin. “In addition to other cost-cutting measures such as the use of solar energy and an ongoing commitment to using recycled materials in asphalt production, we are helping cut costs across our business.”

20 Estates team at the ready

Wainwright’s Estates Department has worked hard over recent months to complete a number of high profile projects.

Foremost among these has been construction of the bunds around our new tips. A condition of our planning permission was to create attractive mounds that shield the landscape and minimise noise pollution. The first phase of this project is complete, and the bunds have been sown with grass to help bind the soil.

In addition, the team has constructed additional rights of way on Wainwright’s land holdings, helped the Somerset Earth Science Centre prepare for educational visits, carried out routine maintenance, and even participated in an archaeological dig.

“It is far to say Andrew Open and his team have worked really hard to improve Wainwright’s environment for our workforce, visitors and neighbours,” says Operations Director Wayne McKeown. “I pay tribute to their efforts, and want to express my gratitude for their commitment and conscientiousness.”

Andrew Open, Estates Manager

Congratulations to our Wayne McKeown with Non-Executive new Executive Director Directors (left to right) Christopher Saunders, Philip Percival (Chairman) and John Luff. Operations Director Wayne McKeown has joined the Board of Wainwright as an Executive Director. The appointment follows a period in which Wayne attended Board meetings but was not a full member.

Wayne has been with Wainwright since 2006, joining as Safety, Health, Environment and Quality (SHEQ) Manager and holding a variety of positions since, including Quarry Manager. He was made Operations Director in 2016 and has recently overseen the sales operation, working closely with Technical Director Andy Robinson. Wayne has a postgraduate qualification in safety and risk management from Strathclyde University. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Quarrying and started his career as an office clerk at McAlpine’s in 1979.

“We are pleased to welcome Wayne to the Board,” says Wainwright’s Chairman, Philip Percival. “He has proved himself to be a good strategic thinker and an adept people manager. We look forward to benefiting from his contributions in the months and years ahead.”

21 Casting a vision for our company

Autumn’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) attracted a large number of In addition to reviewing the preceding trading period, Peter gave a shareholders, who celebrated a record year of success for the company sense of his vision for the future of the company. This includes an and heard a presentation from Chief Executive Peter Barkwill. ongoing commitment to growth and optimisation, as well as a renewed concern for the environment. Peter used his talk to review a trading year of highs and lows for Wainwright, which started with a significant slowdown in business and “We are building a future that continues Wainwright’s legacy for future ended with record turnover and profits. generations,” he says. “It’s important for our shareholders to see the strength of our conviction that we can make the world a better place “It was certainly a year of contrasts,” he says, “and I was keen to convey while continuing to pursue our commercial goals.” the extent to which Wainwright’s people turned things around. To emerge from 2018-19 with record figures is a major achievement – testament to the hard work and dedication of our people.”

22 Wainwright: a values-driven business

A new project has been initiated to uncover, celebrate all that makes it special and cast a vision for our future.” articulate and enshrine Wainwright’s As well as helping Wainwright uncover and communicate its values, distinctive corporate ethos. the project will help drive employee engagement and be used in staff inductions. Peter Barkwill believes it will shape the company’s culture Chief Executive Peter Barkwill and HR for many years to come. Director Lisa Saunders are spearheading the project, with support from Communications “Our last vision and values process took place around 10 years ago,” he Director Tim Gibson, the senior team and an says. “By initiating an update, we’re able to reflect on where Wainwright external creative and branding agency. has come in the intervening period, and develop a clearer sense of what we stand for as we embark upon a future of growth, optimism and Following consultation with Wainwright’s ongoing social and environmental responsibility.” workforce and a variety of customers and suppliers, a values statement will be produced that captures Wainwright’s essence.

“The values project is a way of expressing exactly what Wainwright stands for as a business,” says Tim Gibson. “It’s a chance to stand back and reflect on our company, to

23 Avonmouth open day draws in the crowds

Wainwright has always been renowned for its popular open days, and recently these have focused on Avonmouth Asphalt as part of the Bristol Open Doors Event.

Here are some photographs from the 2019 event, which attracted more than 600 visitors. Staff from across the business helped out with the event, with all of Avonmouth Asphalt’s team on hand to conduct tours and explain the workings of the cutting-edge plant.

In addition, members of Wainwright Contracting displayed items of their kit and told visitors how roads are made. Dr Gill Odolphie and Adel Avery from the Somerset Earth Science Centre were also available with workshops and activities that kept visitors of all ages inspired and amused.

24 25 Staff changes

Welcome

Matt Bishop – SHE Manager Debbie Brooks – Receptionist Rich Coleman – Contracts Manager Ryan Cook – Quarry Operative Tanya Cox – Cleaner Grant Daniels – Contracting Operative Ben Dormer – Quarry Manager Simone Hamilton – Sales Co-ordinator Sophie Handover – SESC Administrator Jason Knight – Planer Operative Clinton Martin – Contracting Operative Louise Sumbler – casual Education Officer Clare Vigus – Field Sales Manager Errol Walsh – Asphalt plant operative – Avonmouth

Farewell

Lee Phillips – Surfacing Operative Juliet Lawn – Educational Officer Sherree Phelps – Cleaner Darren Mackrell – Tractor Driver Paul Cooper – Workshop Fitter Nelson Scott – Assistant Quarry Manager Andrew Seal – Sales Coordinator Oliver Ashton – Quarry Manager Phil Garness – Contracts Manager Karen Haines – Admin Jordan Riddle – Excavator Operator Susan Whittock – Cleaner Lauren Russ – Receptionist

26 A word from our HR Director

The HR Department works hard to enshrine a culture of care, diligence and professionalism at Wainwright. We value every member of our team. We give them all the best possible chance to succeed, and realise their true potential.

As a company, we are committed to developing talent. We are proud of our apprenticeship programme, which is preparing the next generation of people for a career in the quarrying industry. We are also pleased to work with local schools and colleges in educational and careers outreach.

In these ways, we’ll inspire young people to pursue a career in an industry that offers so many stimulating opportunities for growth. Combined with our existing people, this lays foundations for a flourishing future, in which Wainwright continues to build on its ethos of professionalism, personal service and doing the right thing.

Lisa Saunders, HR Director

27 Autumn staff party proves spooktacular fun

The Autumn Party was a huge success, attracting Sue Brown triumphed in the carving competition, with Ian Sweetman staff across the business who came with their coming in second place. Staff children came in earlier in the day to partners for an evening of Halloween-themed carve pumpkins, and Sue’s daughter Jasmine won this competition – entertainment showing that creativity clearly runs in the family!

The party was held on Saturday, 26 October in a marquee outside the “The party was a very happy occasion for us all,” says HR Director Somerset Earth Science Centre. Food was courtesy of a hog roast, Lisa Saunders. “It’s a lovely chance to show the team how much accompanied by salads, rolls and an array of delicious puddings. A live they’re appreciated, and to foster friendship and solidarity across the brand provided the music, and further entertainment came in the form workforce.” of fire pits and a pumpkin-carving competition.

28 29 30 Wainwright News helps work them smarter, safer and more productively. from across business the can advantage take of training that staffwithout access to acomputer. Thismeans colleagues Computer terminals are available canteen quarry inthe for andhealth wellbeing and management. time a range of topics, including Health and Safety, e-safety, mental and test knowledge. their The suite of courses available covers using acomputer to terminal work through course materials E-learning enables stafftraining to undertake at anytime, staffthe training provisionthroughout Wainwright. A varietyof electronic learning materials is helping enhance E-learning suiteexpands makes animpact Communications Group Employee including staff indecision making.” to company the shows positive the effect of Wainwright,” says Marcia. “Our contribution “It’s great shaping ECG the to see initiatives at working patterns. days, thereby giving greater flexibilitytheir in days of additional holiday, or three to sell holidays. This enables staff to buy upthree to introduction sacrifice pilot for of asalary A recent impact from group the is the Beeching. minutes by taken Administrator Marcia staff members chairthe discussions with of company the section is represented, and put forward by Wainwright’s staff.Each groupThe meets regularly issuesto discuss Wainwright’s culture. continues(ECG) to have an impact in shaping The EmployeeCommunications Group Elvys, in the summer. inthe Elvys, company after her maternity leave. Kirsty gave baby to a birth girl, training. We are looking forward to welcoming her back to the Wainwright to support pleased has been Kirsty through her ongoing (CIPD). Member of Chartered the Institute of Personnel and Development Kirsty completed her degreeof as part her process of becoming a England, Bristol. in Human Resource Management from University the of West the of HR Advisor Kirsty Byrne has recently graduated with aMasters Degree Congratulaions, Kisy! helping to foster employees. between links evencloser November. More than 50colleagues enjoyed aday of paintballing, groupThe role:social hasalso a it organised its firststaff outing in report.” and how things have moved on since last the clear picture of how we’re doing as an employer, findingsthe early in 2020, we should have a our values proposition. By we time the analyse previous and includes also on survey afocus Saunders. “It builds on questions the of the of workingaspect for Wainwright,” reports Lisa among staff, all insightseeks and aboutevery new questionnaire“The distributedbeen has progress of from January last the survey 2018. Wainwright’s management team to assess launched, been has staffA new enabling survey goes live Staff survey2019 Left to right: Rory Bishop, Lily Chant, Matt Lukins and Matt Bishop

Inspiring the next generation Overall, Wainwright’s apprenticeship programme is in evolution, with HR Director Lisa Saunders and Apprentice Mentor Adrian Schreiber- A successful apprenticeship programme is at the heart of a thriving Green exploring a variety of training partners. company like Wainwright, and we’re proud of the strides we’ve made in this area over recent years. “I would like us to form a lasting relationship with a training provider to deliver bespoke apprenticeship pathways in the quarrying business A number of our apprentices have now completed their training and in the South West,” says Lisa Saunders. are bringing value to Wainwright’s operations in asphalt production, the quarry and HR. “To make that happen, we need to build on our industry-wide cooperation and find a suitable education partner. Once we achieve Now, we are putting a further group of staff through NVQs, which are that, I believe we’ll have a programme that adds value for the sector the equivalent of apprenticeship schemes, up skilling them and laying and establishes a clear career pathway for people who want to pursue a foundations for their future. career in quarrying, extractives and asphalt production.”

Mental Health workshops

A series of mental health workshops has been held for all Wainwright’s staff at the Somerset Earth Science Centre.

The workshops provided a chance to share best practice and de- stigmatise mental illness. The construction and quarrying industries report higher-than-average rates of mental illness among employees, making it especially important to help staff identify symptoms and seek help when necessary.

The workshops included input on recognising the signs of stress and mental breakdown, and finding appropriate treatments. They also helped colleagues manage their anxiety levels and find ways to achieve a positive work-life balance.

31 Reaching out through education

We all know that education changes lives. That’s why Wainwright is committed to engaging with local schools and colleges, helping inspire a generation for a career in quarrying

Education, education, education. This phrase may live in your memory Whatever the nature of their input, these Ambassadors make a as the campaign slogan for Tony Blair’s New Labour in the late 1990s, profound contribution to improving the life chances of children and but it continues to resonate today. young people in the region. They show that quarrying remains one of the largest employers, offering the chance for stimulating career Without inspiring education, our young people won’t be empowered progression without the need to move miles away from home. to pursue the career of their dreams. They won’t find their ambition nurtured or their skills developed. And they won’t have a sense of the What is more, the scheme identifies the range of career opportunities great opportunities the future can hold. available in the industry, including operational roles, finance, HR, communications, and education and training. It is already helping That is why Wainwright is committed to a programme of educational generate applications for employment in the company, with some of and careers outreach. We want to show young people in the local Wainwright’s recent trainees and apprentices such as Lily Chant and area how stimulating and rewarding a career in quarrying and related Rory Bishop being drawn from local schools. industries can be. So we have a team of STEM Ambassadors who are trained to go into schools and colleges and talk about the industry, It all goes to show: deliver inspirational insight into a local industry casting a vision of a bright future in which young people can pursue and you’ll empower the next generation to join, grow and drive that their ambitions and realise their full potential. industry to a brighter future.

This programme is delivered in conjunction with other quarrying companies, including Hanson, Aggregate Industries, Morris and Perry, and Tarmac. Coordinated by Wainwright’s HR Director Lisa Saunders and the team at the Somerset Earth Science Centre, the STEM Ambassadors regularly undertake speaking and workshop duties in schools throughout the region.

Sometimes they talk about their own careers, showing how they have progressed through hard work, dedication and ongoing training. On other occasions, they talk about the work of the quarrying industry, showing footage of live blasts or explaining production processes.

32 STEM Ambassador activities in 2019

• Engagement with pupils and students at local schools and colleges including Norton Hill, Wells Blue School, Frome College and the Crispin School in Street • Dragon’s Den-style pitching workshops, in which industry professionals listen to presentations from aspiring entrepreneurs • Mock interviews in which students develop their skills in readiness for job applications • CV-writing workshops • Quarry tours and presentations from the Somerset Earth Science Centre team • Careers sessions, including input from Wainwright’s apprentices about their career pathway • Q&A sessions about quarrying and careers 34 Somerset Earth Science Centre round up industry. CentreScience summer inthe to about learn careers quarrying inthe Seventeen Year 10students from Norton Hillcame School to Earth the Carees wokshop Adel Avery, Business Manager Manager Odolphie, Education Dr Gill stimulating. a career that isrewarding fulfilling, and out to young people to inspire for them and natural the environment, and reach educate people about local our industry communities and landscapes, help positive impact on of quarrying missionOur is simple: to show the environment. help visitors engage with local their workshops and community events to and conferences and anumber run of We provide also avenue for meetings programme pp 36-7). (see to STEM successful the Ambassador interestlocal groups and contribute and college students, engage with opportunities for schoolchildren Producers (MQP), we provide learning Funded by Mendip the Quarry industry. quarrying local contribution to reputation the of the continues to make an important CentreScience SomersetEarth The months activiies inhepassix provide anoverviewofcoe profile ofvisitor,isaff engage withanever-ide Science Centrecontinueso As theSomerseEarth School. like afterlandscape restoration andScience a STEM Fair Selwood at a competition to show what Hanson’s should Whatleylook Quarry that activities Other formed of apart Enthuse the project included abouttalk measurements, and engineering.” scale vehicles,” says Greg Banton, coordinated who project. the “We could workshop.to aquarry children “The gotright some up to close massive A standout feature visits was access the of children quarry these gained maythem employees evenbecome quarry one day.” point instudying future,” inthe them says Odolphie. DrGill “Some of alive, give acontext them a and children see the hopefully then will visits and “Through quarry experimentsrock we these topicsbring subjects. Atotal of 200pupils were involved. technology, engineering and maths are dynamic and exciting real-life Its aim was to encourage eight and nine year olds that to see science, This project was deliveredthroughout six Fromeschools. primary Partnership on “Enthuse the project”, by funded STEM. In early the of part 2019,we worked with Frome the Learning The Enthuseprojec mock interviews with Wainwright’smock interviews staff. inourinstalled classroom and underwent reality virtual excavatorMPQC currently In addition, students enjoyed sessions on the roles available. introduction and to varietyof the quarrying on apprenticeship programmes and ageneral offered tours, Saunderstalk Lisa aby quarry day-long their During visit to Centre, the we rangethe of opportunities on offer. many young local people donot know about employers school’s inthe catchment area, isAlthough one quarrying of largest the 35 Making connections

Local schools careers officers came to Moons Hill Quarry in the autumn for a tour of the complex and a talk about the range of opportunities available in the industry.

Staff from Wainwright and the Earth Science Centre worked together to host the visit. It included a presentation by Contracting Director Lee Seviour and a visit to the Loading Control Room, including a demonstration of a dumper truck being loaded.

Quarry visits Recent visits include We continue to welcome a wide variety of All of these visitors have one thing in • A group of landscape architects visitors to local quarries, conducting tours common: a genuine interest in the local learning about quarry restoration and providing talks and workshops about the landscape and geology, and a desire to • Curators from Bristol Museum industry. understand more about the role of quarrying • Sixth formers from Frome College in our communities. • Local congregation members from Visitors in the last year range from seven- Frome Methodist Church year-old school pupils to a group of elderly Everyone is welcome to come for a visit to • A variety of local primary school gentlemen from Frome Methodist Church – the Centre. To find out more, email info@ pupils one of whom was well into his nineties! earthsciencecentre.org.

Mendip Rocks: highlights

The annual Mendip rocks festival runs from August to October and is organised by Somerset Earth Science Centre, the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and the Mendip Society.

This year’s festival attracted more visitors than ever. Here are Young Farmers some of the highlights. come a-calling It’s a Blast A group of 18 local Young Farmers, aged between 14 and 21, came to the Earth Science at Westbury Quarry Centre in the summer for a tour of Moons Hill Quarry. This event kicked off the festival, and included a prize draw to assist former quarry manager Accustomed as they are to farm machinery, Nigel Taylor in blowing up a scrap car. the young visitors were very impressed by More than 150 visitors came on the day and the size and scale of quarry plant. Many enjoyed botany and geology walks, as well as also expressed an interest in the range of an insight into an archaeological dig that has apprenticeships on offer with a company like uncovered the bones of early mammals. Wainwright.

36 event to aMendipRocks 1,500 peolecame In all,morethan preserving the landscape. the preserving efforts Wainwright to in goes restoring and about realities the and of of quarrying, the provided achance to tell visitors more into Moons for atour. Hill Quarry This OdolphieDr Gill took more than 60people bythat collected late their had been father. donatedalso avarietyof rocks and minerals Hardy. residents Local Val and Roger Probert Mendip fossils collector from DrPeter local A highlightof day the was ashowcase of August, attracting visitors of ages. all annualOur open day was on Wednesday, 21 SESC openday Mendip Producers (MQP) Quarry for support with publicity costs. many more thanks to thousands Our the media. engaged social via In more all, than 1,500people came to aMendip event, Rocks and Gully Cave. Natural England and Professor Danielle Schreve with fossil bones from AONB, The MendipSociety, National South Trust, West Heritage, more than 300people and supported by SESC the team, Mendip Hills The camefestival glorious eventto a special finale a with attended by Gorge, of giving asense how water travels from “rock to tap”. We visited also source the of Cheddar’s water supply inCheddar Mike Sumbler Bristol the to see Water treatment works at Stoke. Chew Doug Robinson Hill and to Beacon Tor Hill inWells and atour with highlightsofOther Mendip include Rocks with Dr walks geological Other highlights event. enabling guests to enjoy acelebratory afternoon part as thetea of Business Manager Adel Avery birthday cake, aspecial baked fromAnna Exeter Losiak University. Bristol, Professor Anthony Watts from Oxford University, and Dr Speakers included Professor Mike Benton from University the of than 60people. daywith of aspecial lectures geological that was attended by more Science was 10in SomersetEarth The August 2019. We celebrated Our 10thannivesay Art exhibition attended opening. the Hills AONB and Wainwright’s senior team annual open day. VIPguests from Mendip the attended andday final the coincidedwith our Somerset’s geology. More than 200people work were artists by who local inspired by Centre Science inAugust,Earth showcasing We hosted our firstever exhibition art the at

37 Somerset Earth Science Centre round up Why the Wainwright Futures Foundation makes a difference

Futures Foundation committee member and Wainwright Communications Director Tim Gibson reflects on what makes the grant-giving body so special

When Peter Barkwill said in 2016 that he wanted to formalise Thus the Wainwright Futures Foundation was born, to mark the 125th Wainwright’s charitable activities, it was clear that he had a specific year of our company’s existence. Taking a donation for every tonne idea in mind. of material sold by the business, and the proceeds from our history book, it gives us around £30,000 per year to distribute in response to Wainwright has always given generously to local causes. In the decade applications from local causes. or so that I’ve known the company, it’s donated to charities, projects and schemes that have one thing in common: they all contribute to the The committee meetings at which applications are considered are wellbeing of communities and the environment. always a stimulating and satisfying experience. They’re a chance to see the difference Wainwright makes to the local area, to find out With this in mind, it became easy to establish the goals of Wainwright’s about the variety of projects and programmes that our friends and charity. It would support activities that make a positive contribution neighbours are involved in, making this a vibrant area to live and to the villages and towns of which we are a part, and to the local work. landscape and ecology. In the past six months alone, the Futures Foundation has supported local playing fields, church repairs, community events, primary schools and sports clubs. It has helped children with special needs and enhanced natural landscapes by partnering with wildlife and conservation projects.

38 Everyone involved in Wainwright can be proud of this contribution. We’re making a tangible difference to the communities of which we are a part, contributing to their flourishing and improving the natural Our support environment. Since May 2019, the Wainwright Futures As Wainwright prepares for our 130th year of trading in 2021, it is Foundation has supported the following local striking to consider how much of an impact we’ve had on the local causes: area. The Futures Foundation is a natural progression of something that has always been at the heart of the business: doing the right thing, • Holcombe Playing Field improving the world, making a difference. • Glastonbury & District Mencap Society That is what Wainwright stands for. It is what marks us out as a company proud of our heritage, and inspired by our future. • Stoke Village Play Park • St Bartholomew’s Church • Stoke St Michael School • Stoke St Michael Community Events Group • Mendip School • United Charities • Shepton Mallet Rotary Club • Cranmore Sports Club • Divoky Riding Club • Splott Albion Football Club • Whitstone School Academy • Stoke St Michael Village Hall • Somerset County Council • Clevedon Learning Trust