STAFF engagement, wellbeing and career development have all been praised at Halesowen’s Specsavers branch after the opticians was handed a prestigious business award.

The Cornbow Shopping Centre-based company has been externally assessed against five key areas, including recruitment and induction, performance management and learning and development, to receive its ‘Platinum Employer’ status.

Designed and verified by employee engagement specialist Korn Ferry Hay Group, the initiative was to set up to support the recruitment and retention of high-calibre employees.

Shahid Parvez, store director, said: “We’re delighted to announce that we’re now recognised as a Platinum Employer. We’re always looking for ways to improve employee engagement and ensure that the whole team is working towards fulfilling their potential.

“We have a strong team here in Halesowen and every member of staff is intrinsic to the store’s success, so it is important that they feel valued as employees.

“We’re dedicated to encouraging our team to do their best and, without their hard work, we wouldn’t be able to make such a positive difference for our customers.

“This award is a brilliant achievement for the store and adds to the sense of pride we feel working for Specsavers and serving our local community.”