More than 50 colleagues came together for an event focused on Sustainability, Quality, Product & Technical (SQPT).

The number of delegates was almost double the number who attended a previous gathering two years ago and included directors and senior management.

Colleagues came from all parts of the UM Group, and the wider W&R Barnett Group – UM’s holding company - including UK & Ireland, Asia, Europe and Trinidad.

After an informal get-together on the first evening, delegates then took part in a packed day, comprising of a dozen presentations, with a local etc. venue close to our London head office hosting us.

Dr Nigel Jones, UM Group's Sustainability, Quality & Technical Manager, organised the day with colleague Louisa Brown, an administrator with UM.

Nigel said: “When we started planning the day, the focus was around sustainability, but it gradually evolved into a much broader remit.

“This included our charitable activities, cyber security, health and safety and the opportunity for colleagues from around the Group to share knowledge about some of the specialist products they market.

“From a sustainability perspective, it was great to get so many colleagues together to showcase what we have done to date and where we are planning to go over the next couple of years.

“We were able to discuss why we undertake various initiatives, such as reducing our energy usage, and the important role colleagues have in supporting this work.

“There was also the opportunity to celebrate the success of the UM Green Fund, which has proved hugely popular since it was launched.

“Sustainability is such an integral part of our business and we are passionate about ensuring it embedded into our strategy, culture and values.”

The charitable section of the day included a presentation by Gale Sergeant, from W&R Barnett, who talked about the organisation’s corporate match-funding scheme and the volunteer grant scheme.

There was also discussion about extending the scope of the Group’s charitable support to potentially include colleagues taking part in challenges outside of the UK & Ireland. Supporting personal growth and making a positive impact to society are an integral part of our commitment to our people and charities.

The day culminated with a lovely dinner and drinks at our local Gaucho restaurant.

Louisa said: “We were delighted to build on the success of the first event a couple of years ago and bring together colleagues from every part of the Group. I’d like to say a special thank you to all our speakers.

“It was an invaluable opportunity to share knowledge while also socialising and learning more about the varied and fascinating work being undertaken in different parts of the world.”