Manchester-based Kingsland Drinks has been awarded the Gold standard by the government’s Investors In People scheme – something achieved by only 7% of businesses in the UK.

Formed in 1991 to help organisations get the best from their people (http://www.investorsinpeople.co.uk), the IIP accreditation is today held by over 15,000 organisations across 75 countries.  Kingsland had previously been awarded the Silver grade, but this has been stepped up to Gold after a recent review.

“Investment in our people has always been as important to Kingsland as investment in our business,” comments Managing Director Andy Sagar, who has worked for the company for 33 years.  “I think the Gold award shows that this is still a priority to us today: the business has seen significant changes over the last five years and this is positive recognition that we continue to head in the right direction.”

Highlights from the report include praise for: the company’s clear vision of where it is going and communicating its strategy for future growth to all personnel; its culture of staff learning and development and the fact that its founding principles and values are still in place; the work undertaken by the Marketing Department, including its Consumer Insight and NPD, to drive the business forward.

Established over 50 years ago, Kingsland are experts in UK filling, packaging, bulk wine shipping, using Consumer Insights (including WinePRO™) to develop exciting retailer and brand propositions –  providing the complete supply chain solution.  The wine portfolio now encompasses luxury Prosecco offerings from Borgo Molino and Sensi, McManis from California and Marisco from New Zealand, as well as newly-formed partnerships with Australia’s Limestone Coast Wines, Brandphoenix and, most recently, Kingsland have partnered with Marks & Spencer.