Lindum Group is joining organisations nationwide in celebrating the benefits of employee ownership as part of this year’s national Employee Ownership Day (EO Day).
To mark the occasion, Lindum is reflecting on its journey as an employee-owned business, celebrating the role its share scheme plays in fostering a strong, collaborative culture and a shared sense of purpose among its workforce.
This year’s EO Day theme, #eoSmile, highlights the pride and motivation that come from being more than just employees – something many at Lindum say they experience through their involvement in the share scheme.
Lindum became employee-owned in 1994 and now employs more than 600 people across offices in Lincoln, York, and Peterborough. The construction company sees employee ownership as central to its culture, collaboration and long-term success.
Co-Chairman Freddie Chambers said: “Employee ownership is at the heart of Lindum. By making shares available for our employees to buy, we try to create a culture where everyone feels invested. Sharing success if part of that because everyone’s efforts really do make a difference to how we do.
“We hope it makes our colleagues feel valued, empowered and proud to be part of something bigger. When the business does well, it’s because of their hard work – and it’s only right that they share in the rewards.”
Quantity surveyor Tom Hollands, who has worked at Lindum for ten years, said: “The share scheme makes you feel part of the success, a small owner of the company in some ways. Every year when we hear the results at the AGM – the share price and dividend– it gives you a real sense of achievement.
“I’d advise new employees not to wait to join. The earlier you start saving, the better. The year-on-year growth has proven that the scheme is a success.”
While many Lindum shareholders have been with the company for a long time, the benefits of joining the Save As You Earn (SAYE) scheme remain attractive to new starters and younger employees.
Technical trainee Matthew Willert said: “I think there’s a general sense of pride knowing that all our dedication can be invested in, and we’re able to see what it produces.”
Charlotte Nairn, who marked her third work anniversary at Lindum York in June, said: “It is nice to be part of the business in a more meaningful way. You don’t really notice the difference in your wages, so there’s no harm in joining – especially if you’re planning to stay with Lindum long-term.”
New starter Finn Bennett, who joined Lindum less than a year ago, agreed: “It was mainly due to the SAYE tax saving and the chance to put money into something with good growth potential. Just do it. It doesn’t matter how much you put in – it’s a great saving tool.”
Employee Ownership Day is coordinated by the Employee Ownership Association (EOA), and this year’s event is being supported by thousands of employee owners and businesses across the country.
The number of UK employee-owned businesses has risen to more than 2,250, contributing £32 – £41 billion to the UK economy annually. Research shows that EO businesses are more productive, foster innovation, and improve employee wellbeing.
Read more about the history of Lindum’s share scheme here
