Nearly 100 local business leaders got a taste of the philosophy behind the success of Suffolk-based Stokes Sauces at an networking event staged by the Suffolk and Ipswich chambers of commerce at Seckford Hall, Woodbridge.

Stokes Sauces founder Rich Sheepshanks spoke about how his approach to life has helped shape the company’s growth since it was launched 12 years ago,

Mr Sheepshanks said: “I wanted to talk about what motivates and inspires me. I honestly believe that we must live our lives to the full and the same goes for being in business.

“I want to makes Stokes a ‘love mark’, one that is both respected and loved. To do so we put an emphasis on building really good relationships with our staff, with our customers and with our suppliers. We try to treat others as we’d like to be treated”.

He highlighted the particular importance the company places on involving and motivating its staff, including salaries at least as good as comparable firms in the sector, a guaranteed 30 hours of training per year and an extra day off for birthdays.

“All of this is an expression of my belief that making work fun and satisfying is both right in itself and a good way of building trust and commitment”, he added.

“We are all about making the best sauces money can buy and Stokes will be an international brand. So Heinz – watch out!”