News updates written by CIWM’s commercial partners.
| Greyparrot | Greyparrot brings waste intelligence to beauty sector to encourage recoverable cosmetics streams |
| Bucher Municipal | How Intelligent Street Cleaning Is Reducing Risk on Urban Roads |
| Nuclear Waste Services | Rail deliveries of capping material to site begin again |
| Augean | Over 13 years of achieving excellence with Achilles UVDB |
| CONTENUR | CONTENUR and Cyngor Gwynedd Continue Community-Focused Partnership |
| Fleetclear | Middlesbrough uses technology to improve safety, compliance and efficiency |
| Optimo | Compost-It works with Optimo to scale West Yorkshire food-waste service |
| Advetec | Advetec appoints Hart as Customer Operations Director |
| Alfred H Knight | Reflections from NWRF 2026 Conference |
| Washed Aggregates Trade Association | Ed Milliband invited to meet with WATA |
| Beyondly | B Corp environmental consultancy Beyondly celebrates 20 years of always finding a better way |
| Vision Techniques | Vision Techniques marks two years since MBO |
| Plan B | Plan B Awards and Accreditations |
Greyparrot | Greyparrot brings waste intelligence to beauty sector to encourage recoverable cosmetics streams
Greyparrot have announced a partnership with L’Oréal Group, gathering data that the AI developer says will encourage packaging design that is easier for the recycling sector to capture.
At Paris Packaging Week 2026, Greyparrot announced that it is extending Deepnest’s real-world impact by partnering with a major cosmetics and beauty corporation, leveraging its AI-powered waste intelligence to design packaging with recovery facility infrastructure in mind.
Deepnest uses AI to detect the brand of waste objects passing through global MRFs and PRFs, providing insight into how packaging is sorted and recovered once it enters post-consumer waste streams.
The recent integration of L’Oréal Group into this collaborative ecosystem further scales the platform’s impact, adding beauty and cosmetics packaging to Deepnest’s established partnerships with Unilever in personal care, and The Cup Collective, McDonald’s, Costa, and Huhtamaki in food services. Each partnership aims to encourage packaging design that translates to higher recovery rates.
Speaking at the Deepnest launch last June, Suez UK’s Innovation Manager David Wood had this to say about the downstream impact that Deepnest data will have for recovery professionals:
“The data that you’ll feed back to the brands will feed back into packaging design decisions. It’s going up the supply chain, which is where it’s going to really have an effect on where our business fits into the whole ecosystem.
Better designed packaging is easier to sort, if it’s easier to sort it’s easier to capture at higher qualities, and it’s easier to feed back into the circular economy, and back to the producers.”
Today, tracking recyclability is no longer just a sustainability ambition – it is a financial necessity. With EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) and the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), brands must meet stricter design and reporting requirements.
Motivated to lead the cosmetics sector’s embrace of circularity, L’Oréal Group are turning to waste data to understand how their products perform in real-world waste systems tasked with recovery:
“As part of our commitment to circularity, we are continuously looking to better understand the real-world journey of our packaging. This pilot partnership with Greyparrot allows us to investigate how our products interact with actual sorting technologies on the ground. By gathering these field insights, we aim to refine our knowledge and further support our ‘Design for Recycling’ strategy with evidence-based data, ensuring our packaging solutions are compatible with evolving recycling systems.”
– Brice André, Global VP Sustainable Development & Packaging, L’Oréal Group
The announcement is the latest bridge between producers and recyclers, with Deepnest putting the waste sector at the heart of packaging’s post-EPR evolution. Biffa’s Amy Hooper noted that cross-industry collaboration will prove vital for a successful circular transition:
“Tools like this are really helpful when [encouraging] brands and producers to work with waste management companies to design things that are optimally recyclable. That really means that we can then recover more valuable material at better quality – and across a broader range of products and packaging.”
Bucher Municipal | How Intelligent Street Cleaning Is Reducing Risk on Urban Roads
Street cleaning is one of the most visible municipal services, yet it is carried out in some of the most complex and high-risk operating environments.
Operators work in close proximity to traffic, pedestrians and cyclists, often at unsociable hours and under pressure to maintain service standards, manage noise, and minimise disruption. While safety regulations provide an essential baseline, they do not always reflect the realities of working on busy urban streets.
Across the sector, this is driving a broader conversation about how technology, design and operational thinking can actively reduce risk, support operator wellbeing and improve safety outcomes for the public.
For Bucher Municipal, this thinking is shaping the future of street cleaning. The company is applying intelligent systems, data and engineering expertise to address the practical challenges operators and councils face every day, from cognitive overload in the cab to air quality, noise and the safe deployment of vehicles in dense urban environments.
Compliance and cognitive load
Operating large municipal vehicles in busy urban environments presents significant risks. Drivers must operate heavy machinery whilst monitoring pedestrians, cyclists, traffic and street furniture, often under time pressure. While compliance standards focus on controls and procedures, they may not fully address the cognitive demands placed on operators in the field.
Bucher Municipal’s recent innovation work with its truck mounted sweepers has focused on addressing this challenge directly. By applying artificial intelligence, computer vision and sensor technology, the company is developing systems that act as an advanced driver assistance layer, automating complex sweeping functions, reducing manual interventions and allowing operators to concentrate on situational awareness and safe driving.
By removing the need for constant manual adjustment of suction power and equipment settings, these systems reduce distraction in the cab and help create a calmer, safer working environment. Importantly, the technology is designed to assist, not replace, the operator, reinforcing safety culture rather than undermining it.
Safety beyond the cab
Safety considerations extend beyond vehicle operators. In urban areas, noise, dust and air quality are critical public health concerns, particularly for vulnerable road users and residents.
Modern street sweepers play a role in improving air quality by removing fine particulate matter generated by brake wear, tyre wear and exhaust residue. Bucher’s latest systems combine onboard particulate sensors with intelligent control software to detect pollution levels before and after sweeping, adapting performance to supress dust and reduce noise.
This approach enables street cleaning to be assessed not just on visibility, but on its contribution to cleaner air, providing councils with evidence of environmental impact while supporting wider public-health objectives.
Scheduled activity to requirement-based deployment
Traditional street-cleaning operations are typically schedule-driven, which can result in vehicles servicing areas that are already clean while other locations deteriorate between visits.
By integrating AI analysis, cleanliness scoring, and route data, Bucher Municipal’s innovation strategies are supporting a shift toward requirement-based deployment. This enables fleets to be directed to areas where intervention is most needed, reducing unnecessary vehicle movements and allowing for more responsible resource allocation.
Designed for people and performance
Recognising the human impact of street-cleaning work is an important aspect of safety beyond compliance. Driving large vehicles through city centres can be stressful, and prolonged stress may contribute to fatigue, reduced concentration, and increased incident risk.
Automation of routine tasks, noise reduction, and simplified in-cab operation are among the measures being explored to improve job satisfaction and wellbeing, which are increasingly important for retaining skilled operators in a competitive market.
Looking ahead
As the municipal sector faces rising expectations around safety, sustainability and accountability, innovation is becoming a shared responsibility between manufacturers, operators and authorities.
For Bucher Municipal, the future lies in combining engineering expertise with digital intelligence; creating vehicles that not only meet regulatory standards but actively contribute to safer streets, healthier communities and better working lives.
Safety, in this context, is no longer just about compliance. It is about foresight, design responsibility and using technology to reduce risk before incidents occur.
Nuclear Waste Services | Rail deliveries of capping material to site begin again
The Southern Trench Interim Membrane (STIM) project is taking another step forward.
Nuclear Waste Services (NWS), which manages the disposal of the UK’s low level radioactive waste, is carrying out important work on the final capping of legacy disposal trenches and vaults to permanently dispose of radioactive waste safely.
NWS is currently replacing the protective membrane (liner) over the southern part of the legacy waste disposal trenches at the Repository site. This is known as the Southern Trench Interim Membrane (STIM) project and needs to be done before capping of the northern trenches. The liner will remain in place for up to 100 years.
The project involves bringing a large amount of aggregate materials to site by rail (using our existing rail sidings on the site), and stockpiling the materials ready for use in STIM and the construction of the final engineered cap.
From 27 January until September, NWS is preparing for approximately 200 trains to transport over 175,000 tonnes of aggregate to the Repository site.
To date, by using 161 trains instead of lorries, 7,037 lorry journeys and 914,781 road miles have been avoided, reducing traffic and minimising disruption for the local community. As the third round of deliveries gets underway – scheduled to finish in September 2026 – this number is set to increase again.
Christine Bradley, Interim Head of Repository Site Project Delivery, said:
“The restart of the rail deliveries marks the next phase of the STIM project and builds on the strong safety and delivery performance and successes achieved during previous rail campaigns.
“This is an example of a shared commitment to coordinated delivery and close collaboration between our delivery partners NWS, Nuclear Transport Solutions (NTS), GRAHAM, SLR (our construction quality assurance contractor, previously known as Wardell Armstrong) and Breedon’s Quarry.
“I’m really looking forward to another great year of making safe progress, hitting delivery milestones and quality standards, and getting that bit closer to successfully capping the Repository.”
Over the four-year contract, a total of 280,000 tonnes of aggregate will be delivered to the Repository – a huge logistical achievement made possible through close collaboration with GRAHAM, specialist transport provider NTS and SLR.
Collaboration with NTS’ rail division has played a pivotal role, with the launch of a new rail service for this project yielding significant environmental benefits.
Augean | Over 13 years of achieving excellence with Achilles UVDB
For over 13 years, Augean has been a proud member of Achilles UVDB, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to operational excellence and industry standards.
We are delighted to share the results of our recent Achilles Utility Vendor DataBase (UVDB) audit at the East Northants Resource Management Facility (ENRMF), conducted on 21–22 January 2026.
This comprehensive assessment evaluated critical aspects of our operations, including quality management, health and safety, environmental practices, sustainability initiatives, business continuity, employment standards, training programs, and overall site management.
We are pleased to report that we achieved an outstanding overall score of 100%, with full compliance across all categories. No critical, major, or minor non-compliances were identified, reaffirming the strength and effectiveness of our management systems and controls at both corporate and site levels.
The audit confirmed that our certified management systems – ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 – are well embedded and supported by strong leadership, skilled personnel, effective risk management, and a positive safety culture.
This independent audit further validates that Augean’s operations meet the rigorous standards of Achilles UVDB, along with relevant regulatory and industry requirements. This achievement underscores our unwavering dedication to operational excellence, safety, and sustainability, reinforcing the confidence our clients and partners place in us.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our dedicated team for their continuous efforts in maintaining these high standards and driving our success.
CONTENUR | CONTENUR and Cyngor Gwynedd Continue Community-Focused Partnership
CONTENUR has continued its strong social value partnership with Cyngor Gwynedd by engaging directly with local community organisations and supporting their vital work through charitable donations.
As part of its ongoing commitment to delivering meaningful social value outcomes, CONTENUR representatives recently visited Freshfields Animal Rescue Wales and Care & Repair Gwynedd, accompanied by representatives from Cyngor Gwynedd. The visits provided an opportunity to see first-hand the positive impact both organisations have on the local community.
During the visits, CONTENUR proudly donated £517.07 to each charity to support their work across Gwynedd.
Freshfields Animal Rescue Wales has a long-standing reputation for rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in need across the region. The team shared insights into their daily operations and the breadth of care they provide to animals of all kinds. The visit offered CONTENUR staff and Cyngor Gwynedd representatives a deeper understanding of the shelter’s work, as well as memorable interactions with some of the animals currently being cared for.
Care & Repair Gwynedd delivers crucial support to older and vulnerable residents through practical home adaptations, repairs, and advice services. Their work helps individuals remain safe and independent in their own homes, enhancing wellbeing and reducing social isolation.
CONTENUR’s social value strategy continues to focus on local engagement, support for voluntary and community sector partners, and delivering measurable outcomes that align with the priorities of the communities it serves.
Fleetclear | Middlesbrough uses technology to improve safety, compliance and efficiency
Like many public sector fleet operators, Middlesbrough Borough Council was struggling to meet constantly changing government regulations while operating under ever-tighter budgetary restrictions.
However, the council has risen to the challenge thanks to the impact of telematics, tracking and vehicle safety technology from Fleetclear.
Dale Metcalfe, Waste, Recycling and Enforcement Manager for the council, oversees the day-to-day delivery of waste services, paid-for services and the council’s enforcement arm. He explains:
“Like many fleet operators, we were facing increasing pressure around health and safety and compliance. Fleetclear has enabled us to stay up to date with any changes, and the technology has also improved how we operate by helping us run our waste management fleet as efficiently as possible. For example, the telematics functionality ensures we use the right routes and that all drivers follow the required legislation when on the road.”
Middlesbrough Borough Council’s refuse, recycling and van fleet is equipped with DVR Live camera systems, vehicle tracking, telematics and anti-rollaway technology. Data from all the equipment is consolidated via the Fleetclear Connect software platform, giving the team visibility across every aspect of fleet operations.
Dale added: “The onboard camera systems provide drivers with a 360° view around the vehicle, which is particularly valuable when manoeuvring large vehicles in busy or hard-to-access areas. It also means drivers can see where operatives are at all times during collection rounds.”
The council describes the transition and installation process as “very smooth”. Ahead of the introduction of mandatory food waste collections this March, a new fleet of food waste collection vehicles, along with seven new recycling vehicles, are due to arrive in Middlesbrough in the coming weeks. All the vehicles will arrive equipped with safety technology, fully configured and ready for work.
Council supervisors have access to a web-based, customisable dashboard, allowing them to view detailed information about each vehicle as well as individual driver performance.
Dale concluded: “We are also considering trialling a new Live Lane Information System (LLIS) from Fleetclear on some of our refuse collection vehicles. It uses AI to detect live traffic in adjacent lanes and activates a sign at the rear of the vehicle to alert crew members to approaching traffic.”
Why Fleetclear?
With over 15 years of expertise delivering credible solutions proven in the field, Fleetclear helps fleets operate safely, efficiently and responsibly. With fully qualified in-house engineers, leading after-sales support and comprehensive warranties, Fleetclear is your fleet safety partner.
Optimo | Compost-It works with Optimo to scale West Yorkshire food-waste service
Optimo worked with West Yorkshire’s food-waste recycler Compost‑It, who has accelerated its growth plans, strengthening its service model to move beyond trial phase and set the gold standard for food-waste recovery for both household and commercial clients across Leeds and Bradford, while the UK prepares for the 2026 “Simpler Recycling” mandate.
The work helped Compost-It to plan their move from a visionary social-impact initiative into a scalable commercial offering.
Founded by university graduates, Compost-It originally collected food-waste on foot from households as a social-enterprise project. Today the business offers both household and business food-waste collection across West Yorkshire, using an electric van fleet and offering tailored bin solutions. Its services to businesses have include free month-trial offers, flexible bin-sizes and weekly/bi-weekly collections, with a focus on avoiding landfill by diverting material to anaerobic digestion.
Optimo helped Compost-It to design robust operational foundations, helping the start-up to plan its transition from solo operator to a scaling business, by working with the Founder to build on what was already working well and tackle their immediate pain points with practical solutions.
- Staff Time Tracking & Data Systems – creating straightforward processes for tracking staff time and ensuring data collection was accurate enough for billing. No complicated software – just systems that work.
- CRM Setup – Starting with an agile mechanism that they could use to track contacts and pipeline progress, but most importantly, keeping this data safe and secure too.
- Simple Reporting – Helping them pull together data from different sources into basic reports so they could track progress against funding they’d received to date in the business and see how things are really going.
Optimo’s services are designed for businesses with environmental and social innovation solutions at all stages of business growth – from start up and scale up, to those growing organically, to more established organisations managing regular business change.
- In waste management we help clients with nudging customer behaviour change and reducing operating costs
- In Greentech businesses we help clients to design target operating models which will provide resilience as they grow
- In design agencies we help clients to create efficient resource management and capacity planning processes, implement AI and collect data to monitor profitability.
- In sustainable housing development we help clients to create processes which support high quality customer experiences
- In Universities we help clients to plan strategic execution roadmaps, manage projects and improve processes.
“The Optimo team bring a real sense of business partnering and collaboration, something that genuinely contributed to the success and delivery of our City Centre campus and also influenced how quickly new or changing business processes were adopted and embedded by the teams at the University” COO, Leeds Trinity University
If you’re looking for operational clarity, resilience, or structure for scalable impact head to Optimo’s website for more information about their services or book a no-obligation consultation call with danielle@optimobusiness.co.uk.
Advetec | Advetec appoints Hart as Customer Operations Director
Biotechnology business Advetec has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Kate Hart as Customer Operations Director, marking a new phase in the company’s growth.
Kate brings a blend of energy‑sector expertise and operational intelligence to the role, spanning customer experience, proposition development, people development and market insight.
In her new role, Kate will accelerate Advetec’s project delivery and expand operational capacity, building next‑generation solutions that elevate the waste sector’s transition to a smarter, cleaner future.
Kate will champion operational excellence, helping waste producers and handlers tackle complex, hard‑to‑process waste streams with more efficiency, insight, and environmental impact.
Advetec’s CEO Lee Knott said: “Kate’s depth of operational and customer‑centric expertise positions us perfectly for our next phase of growth. Her leadership will be instrumental in scaling our technology and supporting customers to radically improve recycling, reduce emissions and cut costs, all while staying aligned with evolving legislation and sustainable innovation.”
Kate joins Advetec after six years at Drax Group, where she held strategic leadership roles including HR Strategic Project Support Lead and BECCS Market Strategy. Prior to that, she spent 17 years at British Gas, heading up non‑contract services, customer propositions and product innovation.
Speaking about the new role, Kate said: “I’m excited to work with Advetec’s customers and stakeholders to scale solutions that push the waste sector forward. With a shared responsibility to protect the planet, Advetec’s biotechnology will be a defining force in strengthening the circular economy, reducing landfill, cutting reliance on virgin materials, and accelerating more sustainable resource cycles. I’m proud to play a part in that mission.”
Kate’s appointment follows the arrival of Dr Denise Cysneiros, recently named Advetec’s first Director of Product and Innovation.
Alfred H Knight | Reflections from NWRF 2026 Conference
The NWRF Annual Conference 2026 brought together voices from across the UK’s waste and resource sector for a day of shared insight, collaboration and engaging discussion.
Hosted at the Jodrell Bank Observatory in Cheshire, UK, the event created a space for local authorities, waste processors and community organisations to explore the evolving challenges shaping modern waste management.
NWRF is a conference that goes beyond the standard, offering a unique blend of technical insight, operational experience, and regulatory advisement. This combination helps to create a more informed, confident, and future-ready waste and resource sector.
A theme throughout the conference was the importance of data-led decision-making. As regulatory frameworks become more complex and operational pressures intensify, organisations are seeking clarity on what’s really happening within their waste streams.
The topic of conversations surrounded the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) and the impact it will have on the sector. Alfred H Knight’s Energy Services Technical Manager, Carl Wilson, delivered a session titled ‘Fossil vs. Biogenic: The Hidden Bill in Your Waste Navigating ETS for Local Authorities’, which explored how accurate composition data, robust modelling and trusted analytical insight help organisations better understand their waste streams, reduce uncertainty, and manage both costs and regulatory compliance.
Through representative sampling and UKAS-accredited RDF analysis, Alfred H Knight helps waste operators build reliable analytical datasets for their alternative fuels.
Sector-wide benefits:
- Confidence in RDF quality backed by representative data
- Stronger evidence for customers and regulators
- A clearer understanding of process performance and material flows
- Customer assurance supported by transparent, verifiable results
- Compliance aligned with current ISO/CEN standards
With over 140 years’ worth of knowledge in materials analysis and a portfolio of work with major clients in the waste management sector, we are well-placed to help you build an accurate and reliable profile of your waste streams and get the most from your alternative fuels. Read our blog to see how you can prepare for the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).
Washed Aggregates Trade Association | Ed Milliband invited to meet with WATA
Gower MP Tonia Antoniazzi has written to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero Ed Milliband to ask for more Government support for the washed aggregates sector.
The MP has requested a meeting with the Secretary of State on behalf of the Washed Aggregates Trade Association (WATA) because she has a washed aggregates recycling company, Griffiths Recycling, in her constituency.
Andy Hill, CEO of WATA said the trade body was extremely grateful to her for her support of the sector.
“Tonia is an incredible support for us and really understands the work we are trying to do on behalf of washed aggregate operators in the UK,” said Andy. “We are very grateful to her.”
In 2023 the UK’s washed aggregates sector diverted nearly one million tonnes of waste soil from landfill, a figure which is growing year-on-year. It also delivers over 23,000 tonnes of annual carbon savings.
WATA is calling for the Government to mandate a minimum requirement of 35% of washed recycled aggregates to be used in all publicly-funded infrastructure projects. This would reduce reliance on primary extraction, cut carbon emissions and demonstrate the Government’s commitment to building a circular economy in practice, not just policy.
WATA is also asking Government to target investment incentives and capital grants for wash plant operators which would allow sites to upgrade technology, improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Furthermore the Association would like to see washed and recycled aggregates explicitly recognised within national frameworks including Net Zero strategies, the Resources and Waste Strategy and the Circular Economy Strategy so that recycled materials are viewed as primary contributors to the UK’s low-carbon infrastructure ambitions.
And finally it wants the Government to advocate funding to support training and workforce development for the sector, helping to meet rising demand for skilled technicians, plant operators and environmental specialists in recycling and wash plant operations.
The request follows WATA’s MP open event, hosted by Ms Antoniazzi at Parliament last November. At the event members of WATA’s exec board spoke to cross party MPs about the sector’s contribution to cutting carbon emissions and supporting Net Zero ambitions, as well as highlighting where the Government could make a difference to the sector.
“We hope to be able to discuss these opportunities in more detail with the Secretary of State and to explore how Government and industry can work together to support a resilient, low-carbon construction supply chain,” added Andy.
Beyondly | B Corp environmental consultancy Beyondly celebrates 20 years of always finding a better way
Since 2006, Beyondly (formerly Comply Direct) has delivered customer-centric environmental compliance and sustainability solutions, driven by an ethos of always finding a better way to create a sustainable world for all.
Founded on 2nd February 2006 in Skipton, North Yorkshire, Beyondly was established to address a gap in the market for a customer-focused environmental compliance scheme. Since then, the company has achieved consistent, sustainable growth, evolving to provide a full-circle of environmental solutions across compliance and sustainability, positioned in the UK’s three largest compliance schemes.
To mark its 20-year anniversary, Beyondly is celebrating the defining moments and achievements that have shaped their legacy, hosting commemorative events locally and nationally throughout 2026 to foster further connections and celebrate with key stakeholders.
Beyondly’s journey so far is defined by helping businesses seamlessly navigate environmental legislation and projects, alongside positive impact and continuous development. This is reflected in various accreditation achievements, including B Corp and EcoVadis, industry award success, and year-on-year growth across its team, customer base, and services. This progress is matched by meaningful contributions to the planet and local communities through the company’s Fund for Change initiative.
Jessica Aldersley, Managing Director at Beyondly, has been with the business since its inception and remains a cornerstone of its foundations. Reflecting on the company’s journey to date and its ambitions for the future, she said:
“I am delighted to be celebrating this business and career milestone; I have had the pleasure of fulfilling many roles and responsibilities at the company over the past 20 years and I’m proud to be leading the company into this anniversary year with exciting plans ahead to mark this milestone.
I look forward to our 20-year anniversary enabling more in-person connections, as we bring together our key customers, partners and suppliers to celebrate and share knowledge as we collectively navigate our ever-evolving industry and strive to create a better world for all.
Beyondly has always had the ethos to continually strive for a better way, and this has undoubtedly been pivotal to our growth and evolution as a purpose-driven business. As we look forward to the next 20 years, Beyondly will continue to grow and adapt to environmental and regulatory change with agility, but this strong ethos will continue to underpin all we do.”
Discover Beyondly’s 20 moments for 20 years timeline, highlighting significant environmental milestones and positive global headlines that ran parallel to their growth, marking historic moments and reflecting the progress made across the globe over the past two decades – https://www.beyond.ly/about/20-moments-for-20-years/
Connect with Beyondly on social media to follow along with all their upcoming 20-year celebrations across 2026 – LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook.
Vision Techniques | Vision Techniques marks two years since MBO
February marked two years since commercial vehicle safety and security specialist, Vision Techniques, completed a management buyout (MBO), and the company continues to go from strength to strength.
On February 8, 2024, Vision Techniques entered a new era of leadership and innovation following the successful execution of its MBO, signalling a transition in leadership and a renewed commitment to its long term vision and values.
Dave Smith stepped into the role of Managing Director, with Sarah Wood appointed as Finance Director.
As the company begins its third year post MBO, the leadership team is proud to reflect on a period of sustained growth, product innovation and operational development.
Dave and Sarah said: “The last two years have flown by and what an incredible journey it has been so far.
“It hasn’t always been without its challenges, we have experienced some ups and downs, but overall it has been a hugely rewarding time, filled with many significant achievements.
“We have continued to grow the business, launch innovative safety and security systems, enhanced existing systems to meet evolving industry needs, secured major contracts, expanded our team and celebrated record-breaking sales months.
“We are incredibly proud of our team and everyone who is part of the Vision Techniques family. We truly couldn’t do it without them.
“Thank you as well to all of our loyal customers for your continued support. We are so excited to see what the next year brings.”
Since the MBO, Vision Techniques has introduced cutting-edge solutions designed to meet the changing demands of modern fleets, while continuing to expand its workforce and customer base.
The company extends its sincere thanks to its customers for their ongoing support and looks forward to continuing to deliver industry-leading safety and security solutions in the years ahead.
To find out more about Vision Techniques products go to https://www.vision-techniques.com/.
Plan B | Plan B Awards and Accreditations
It has been a busy few months for Plan B Management Solutions (Plan B) having been awarded a Bronze award by the Fair Payment Code, a Bronze award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme and achieved re-accreditation for the Silver Investors in People Award.
Fair Payment Code
Plan B has been recognised with a Bronze award by the Fair Payment Code, which encourages businesses across the UK to pay invoices fairly and quickly.
The scheme is run by the Office of the Small Business Commissioner on behalf of the UK Government. The Code promotes an approach that is exactly how Plan B want to do business: clear, fair, and collaborative with our suppliers, partners, employees, and clients.
“Plan B Management Solutions is delighted to achieve a Bronze award for the Fair Payment Code” says Craig Cutajar, Materials Director at Plan B. “We applied to join as we view our suppliers as partners and believe that prompt payment is a key part of supporting them and their continued success. As a rapidly growing SME, we understand the importance of prompt payment and would encourage businesses to join the Fair Payment Code to support SMEs and the wider UK economy. Whilst we are delighted to achieve the Bronze award, we see this as just the start, and look forward to progressing to the Gold award in the near future.”
Every business granted an award agrees to abide by the Code’s principles of being clear, fair and collaborative with their suppliers. Since launching in December 2024 more than 450 businesses of all sizes and across a range of industries have become code awardees.
Defence Employer Recognition Scheme
Plan B has also been recognised with a Bronze award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.
The scheme recognises businesses and organisations that pledge support for the Armed Forces community, and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant, which promises to ensure that those who serve are treated with fairness and respect in their communities, including access to services, such as healthcare, and opportunities, such as employment.
The three-tier award – Bronze, Silver, and Gold – recognises the commitment provided by employers, and we’re delighted to be one of the 12,400 organisations who have pledged support and become part of the recognition scheme.
Investors in People Award
Finally Plan B is delighted to announce that it’s achieved re-accreditation for the Silver Investors in People Award.
This recognition reflects the continued commitment to investing in its people, strengthening its culture, and ensuring Plan B remains a place where every individual can grow, thrive, and succeed.
Since the last assessment in 2022, the business has grown from 19 to 147 employees – an incredible milestone that demonstrates the dedication of the teams across the organisation. At the heart of the success are Plan B’s core values, which shape the way staff work every day:
- Partnerships – Working collaboratively with clients, built on trust
- Listening – Understanding client needs, ensuring we deliver beyond expectations
- Achievement – We are doers who thrive on delivering high-quality work
- No Secrets – Openness and transparency in everything we do
- Belief – Passion for our company, our customers, our teams, and each other
Plan B would like to say a huge thank you to every member of the team for living these values and contributing to this achievement. Here’s to the next chapter of growth, collaboration, and success!
