Background

Launched in 1998, Bradford-based Applelec Group manufactures bespoke signage, displays and architectural lighting. The company has expanded greatly over the past quarter of a century and today serves big-name clients in the UK and exports globally to key markets including the Middle East. Applelec operates from a six-acre business park and employs around 60 people.

The challenge

Applelec is transitioning from a traditional director-owned model to an employee ownership trust that will protect jobs and make the business more sustainable. This new structure has re-invigorated the business and staff, influencing a new mindset and cultural transformation that is positively impacting the business and ensuring a bright and exciting future for everyone. Such a fundamental shift requires a major operational and cultural transformation, so the company was looking for expert help.  

The solution

Through our Innovation service, we awarded the firm a grant of £1,100 to implement a bespoke cultural strategy. This would help employees recognise and embrace internal difference and create a unified, motivated workforce focused on continuous growth.

We connected Applelec with consultant Gary Sifleet from Educe Learning, who helped shape the cultural change programme and provided one-to-one coaching to ensure it was fully embedded.

Taking part in our Innovation service also unlocks access to our Leadership programme. Through this, our partner Leeds Beckett University provided Applelec with training for leadership, culture and managing high-performing teams at The Leadership Centre.  

Another of our partners, Sustainable X, carried out a decarbonisation audit to support the company’s move towards a greener future.    

The impact

West Yorkshire Business Boost has enabled Applelec to re-evaluate and realign its values, mission and purpose. The senior leadership team now has a clear pathway to implement cultural changes and a year-long transformation programme is underway. This will empower the company to successfully embed the employee-owner trust model, expand headcount from 64 to 80 and increase turnover by 22% within three years.

“The support we’ve received has accelerated our plan and provided additional stability to a project that’s crucial both for the company’s future and our workforce. With a renewed focus we’re excited about what’s to come and the collective success of our employee ownership trust. We’re very grateful for all the help to make this happen.” Rachel Gould, Marketing Manager

Learn more about our Innovation service

If you have a business based in West Yorkshire and are interested in working with our expert team of Innovation & Leadership Managers, express your interest in our programme here.