Overall winner in 2016, M&S returned to clinch the 2018 award with open and honest reporting that tackles up-front the company’s challenges and their actions taken in response. The judges were especially impressed by the “Facing facts” section acknowledging the issues affecting its recent performance, and the steps taken to refresh and deliver the Plan A 2025 programme.
Lloyds Banking Group won the Building Public Trust Award for Workforce Fairness Reporting in the FTSE350.
Comments from the independent judging panel include: “Lloyds’ reporting shows clearly that the workforce is a critical part of its responsible business strategy, and puts colleague inclusion, wellbeing, learning and human rights at the forefront. They recognise and report on the positive impact that creating a responsible, inclusive and diverse culture has on the customer experience. It was one of the few companies to disclose ethnicity and gender reporting by grade, as well as disability ratios and the year-on-year change in them.”
One judge commented: “The reporting on diversity and training is remarkable and impressive.” The report also highlights the company’s commitment to help local communities become more cohesive by providing vital support for disadvantaged individuals in Britain today.
M&S, and Pearson were also both ‘highly commended’ for ‘Corporate Governance Reporting in the FTSE 350’.