MERCHANT FOCUS: ALSFORD
ALSFORD A
VISION ON AT
A three-day tour around the branches was how one timber merchant shared its aims for the future with colleagues, as BMJ finds out.
lsford, the South-East based independent timber and builder’s merchant, embarked on a three- day Vision Tour across their
19-branch estate, earlier this Spring, engaging directly with team members about their core values, mission, and vision for the next five years.
Traveling by coach with hospitality provided for all team members, the four Alsford directors were able to meet with all colleagues to discuss and share the strategic direction, and key initiatives, that will shape the company’s future.
The Vision Tour highlighted to colleagues Alsford’s unwavering commitment to enhancing Wellbeing at work, advancing IT infrastructure, and expanding services for our customers. These pillars form the backbone of the Alsford strategy, reflecting their dedication to both employee wellbeing and service excellence for all.
Investment in Wellbeing: The company is currently in the process of attaining the National Accreditation for Psychological Safety through the Dharma
Centre for Wellbeing, encouraging open discussion of ideas, concerns, questions or mistakes without fear. With just under 250 employees, Alsford want to be able to draw from the different backgrounds and experiences within the business, so it is vital that everyone feels they can have their say and that they are listened to.
Through consultation with teams in 2023, Alsford decided to become the first merchant to attain this accreditation, which focuses on supporting our colleagues both in and outside of work, covering the six elements of wellbeing; Physical, Professional, Mental and Emotional, Social, and Financial, and Alsford will be introducing specific programs and initiatives designed to ensure all team members feel more settled and confident in themselves, in both their personal and professional lives. Alsford expect to gain accreditation during Q1 2025.
Advancements in IT:
In its pursuit of operational excellence, Alsford is also underway with key investment into their IT infrastructure and took the time to update colleagues on the benefits and influence this will have on their working days.
The investments include upgrading current IT infrastructure, including a move to Epicor Bistrack Global, and continuing to enhance cybersecurity. These advancements are aimed at improving efficiency, facilitating seamless communication internally and externally, and providing teams with the tools they need to excel in their roles.
Expansion of Treatment As part of their mission to deliver outstanding service, Alsford are also expanding their services facilities through its continued investment into their fleet (which already benefited from a £3 million investment in 2023), and the expansion of services offered by its new CNC Machine Epicon 713 installed in late 2023, which can produce door linings, crosscut and end return window board, and machine doors.
In 2024 Alsford are adding to this the introduction of a treatment tank at their mill in Erith, Kent. Changing the profile of its inhouse services previously sourced through third party suppliers and increasing the flexibility and service level Alsford can offer its customer base.
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www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net July 2024
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