DS Smith creates employee ‘stars’

The UK packaging business of DS Smith has launched a company-wide employee reward and recognition programme following an employee engagement survey amongst its 3,000 staff. As a result of the feedback received, the company explored ways to encourage a culture of praise and recognition that reflects the style within its business.

A three-tier scheme has been developed with Red Letter Days for Business to provide instant recognition of employee behaviours. Called ‘Stars’ – Spontaneous Thanks and Reward Scheme – it allows thank you cards to be handed or sent to employees, who can also be nominated to receive £25 reward vouchers. The Stars scheme is one of a number of initiatives at DS Smith that are designed to develop a culture of engagement, including a health and wellbeing programme in conjunction with charity Heart Research UK.

Bill Alexander, CEO at Red Letter Days for Business, said:

‘Our latest engagement report shows that 80% of highly engaged staff receive some form of reward or recognition for work well done, compared to just 35% of those who have no engagement. The power of a thank-you from peers, managers and directors should never be underestimated. The STARS scheme is a fantastic campaign and will make DS Smith’s employees feel even more valued by their employer.’