Sharp Skips awarded Gold FORS accreditation

Sharp Skips, an Essex-based waste management company with over 40 years in the business, has achieved the prestigious FORS Gold accreditation. This achievement has significantly boosted its competitiveness in a crowded marketplace, where many contractors now require at least FORS Silver accreditation to consider doing business. According to Ryan Jones, Head of Sales at Sharp Skips, this Gold status has been instrumental in securing high-profile clients, reducing operational costs, and reinforcing the company’s commitment to safety and environmental standards.

The company’s FORS journey began in 2013, and since then, Sharp Skips has consistently seen operational improvements. These include increased fuel efficiency through FORS’ driver training initiatives, designed to enhance driving styles across their fleet of nearly 40 vehicles. The fleet has also been upgraded with cameras to improve driver awareness and reduce safety risks, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Regarding sustainability, FORS has been a catalyst for Sharp Skips’ environmental efforts. In 2022, the company reported an 88% recycling rate, preventing over 76 cubic yards of waste from going to landfill. Additionally, they have significantly reduced CO2 emissions, thanks to the advanced technology in their modern fleet and a closed-loop recycling system that minimises their environmental footprint.

Sharp Skips is also dedicated to community engagement. The company regularly organises charitable activities, such as a 140-mile sponsored cycle ride to Ypres to support Homeless Veterans UK, which raised over GBP5,000. They also work with local schools to promote sustainability through educational workshops on waste management and recycling.

Jones encourages other operators to join FORS, emphasising that it improves operations and enhances industry reputation, preparing businesses for future challenges.