Better for staff and customers
Page 26
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
ALTHOUGH the management team of the National Freight Consortium is substantially the same as in the days of national ownership, "customers now know we don't behave like a state-owned company," says Peter Thompson, chairman and chief executive. Extensive experience on both sides of the fence convinces him that privately financed companies give better service.
An additional spur to endeavour is the consortium's ownership by the employees. Although he cannot prove it, Peter believes that those with a stake in the business work more effectively than those without one.
Employees who bought shares are certainly getting a quick and ample return, with 12 per cent dividends in eight months (against a forecast of 71/2 per cent) on shares already doubled in value, a further interim dividend to be proposed at the annual general meeting in Birmingham on February Sand a one-for-one scrip issue.
Special arrangements for transport to the meeting are being made for the staff and the directors hope for a big turnout. Brian Hayward, head of the National Services Group, will certainly be doing his bit. Ten members of his family hold shares and will be present in force.