A REDDITCH family business has launched a subsidised employee Food Box scheme to help its staff members with the cost-of-living crisis.
The Food Box contents changes monthly to reflect the need of the employees.
Oakland International chief operating officer Lee Whiting said: “Even with the Living Wage increases the cost of living is still going up so as a business we’ve been investigating practical ways to offer help and support to our whole team, and so far, have launched over a dozen initiatives.
“It’s our business to know how to buy and pack food cost effectively, so together with our wonderful supplier partnerships, such as Morrisons, Mission Foods and Smurfit Kappa, we’ve been able to introduce our Food Box scheme which has a retail value of around £20 and has now been delivered to every member of Oakland’s UK Group of businesses free of charge.
“After the initial two months, the Food Boxes will be offered on a heavily subsidised subscription basis of £5 per box and will include basic essential ambient items and produce worth over £20.”
Since introduction, employee feedback has been positive, and they are receiving requests from other businesses who want to offer support to their employees.
Lee added: “There is not a lot of support out there – we all need to look after each other, there is so much more that can be done to support employees rather than just looking at what can be afforded in wages.
“We’re happy to help anyone needing advice on how they can launch a food box scheme or needs packing support, simply get in touch.”
