Going the extra mile for its customers proved worthwhile for Framtrade Ltd, which reached the finals of Calor Gas’s ‘Challenge Direct’

The wholly-owned subsidiary of farming co-op Fram Farmers, based at Framlingham, was among about 170 gas dealers and retailers from all over the UK which took part in the competition.

The top 50 dealers who reached set business targets by the end of March 2014 were awarded an all-expense paid trip to Malaga.

The Calor Gas Challenge Direct incentive recognises the efforts of the staff members across the UK network of Calor dealers who go above and beyond the call-of-duty to deliver vital services to homes and businesses. It helps celebrate the vital contribution of front line and back office staff, acknowledging the teams and rewarding the unsung heroes.

After six months of hard work and commitment, Framtrade Ltd was named a finalist of the Calor Gas “Challenge Direct” and rewarded at a gala dinner and awards presentation at Malaga Museo del Automovil, held at the end of June.

Framtrade Ltd MD Gary Pleasance said: “We are delighted and overwhelmed to be finalists of the Calor Gas Challenge Direct scheme. It’s such an honour and recognises the value we play on customers.

“This acknowledgment reflects both the dedication of the staff members and the ongoing support that Calor Gas provides that helps us maintain our leadership position in our industry.”

Stephen Rennie, managing director for Calor Gas, said: “In a competitive market place, every sale counts. With increased choice for customers comes increased pressure on sales teams to go that extra mile. The Calor Challenge Direct incentive has helped transform the sales operation across the board and kept the sales teams motivated and selling.

“Not only has the scheme helped improve Calor product knowledge and confidence of the sales teams, its helped unite a team towards a common goal.”

Framtrade has an annual turnover of over £3.75m with its primary products being bulk and bottled gas, liquid fuels, heaters, bird scaring devices and Calor equipment.