The Co-operative Financial Services named Company of the Year

The Co-operative Financial Services was named as Business in the Community’s company of the year 2008 yesterday, at a glittering awards event in London. They were recognised for making sustainable development a top priority, from how they operate, to the products and services offered to their customers.

These businesses know that building a successful business depends above all on creating a sustainable business and getting the best out of people. They are truly leading the way in delivering the two biggest challenges facing businesses in the UK today – tackling climate change and unlocking the talents of individuals to remain competitive on the global stage.

Gavin Patterson, Group Managing Director of Consumer, BT said: “The Co-operative Financial Services have a maintained and sustained commitment to responsible business, regularly using their customer base to refresh their position and values.  Their approach is hardwired throughout the business.Their campaigning activities clearly demonstrate their passion and authenticity, and they aren’t afraid to make difficult decisions or change business processes to achieve their aims."

The companies winning Business in the Community awards this year are demonstrating the best and most innovative examples of how businesses are addressing the most pressing social and environmental challenges.

Airport operator BAA Heathrow, won the new BT Total Talent award for developing a retail academy to get unemployed residents from neighbouring communities into supervisory and managerial positions with the airport retailers.

The Prince of Wales, via video message, named Chris Hyman of Serco and Stanley Fink of Man Group as his Ambassadors for 2008. Philippa Foster Back was awarded the Marks & Spencer Sieff Award .

A full list of the 2008 winners can be found on the Business in the Community Awards pages

The Financial Times ran a special report on the Awards for Excellence.