LAWTEC and businesses throughout the region celebrated the ninth national Investors in People (IiP) week last week.

More than 300 organisations have achieved the accolade in Lancashire Area West and are reaping the benefits the standard brings, including improved staff retention, skilled, motivated and flexible employees, improved company image and increased competitiveness.

Nederman Ltd based at Walton Summit near Chorley achieved the standard earlier this year. Founded in 1978 the company now has 52 employees and a turnover of £10 million.

The company specialises in the sale and distribution of equipment to safeguard employees from hazards such as fumes, dust and noise across a range of industrial sectors.

Managing director David Hull said: "In an increasingly tough industry, we are constantly looking at ways to improve our service and boost productivity."

He said he had seen a marked improvement in the performance of many individuals since achieving the IiP award.