Bidvest Noonan

A market leading provider of facilities services and solutions

sustainability

Training for Emerging Threats: Integrating Risk & Intelligence with Ian Martin

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Security teams need effective training now more than ever. Whether dealing with well-known threats like terrorism and crime or confronting newer challenges like cyber-attacks, the right training makes all the difference. I have found that taking a multi-dimensional approach to training is key to staying ahead of both familiar and emerging threats.

The risks we face are always changing. Terrorism, organised crime, theft, and violence are becoming more complex. Adversaries are constantly adapting, using new tactics and technologies to further their goals. These days, cyber attacks are part of the mix, not just stealing data but also potentially compromising physical safety by disrupting security measures. As threats evolve, security teams need to be prepared to manage both physical and digital risks. Developing strong intelligence frameworks and establishing effective communication mechanisms are crucial. They not only drive operational responses but also help formulate the training requirements needed to mitigate these threats.

The security training we provide has to give teams the tools they need to stay ahead of threats and protect the people, property, and assets in their care. While e-learning programs are great for giving teams the basics and establishing the foundational knowledge security officers need, they are not enough in isolation. Problem-solving is one of the most valuable skills for security teams, especially in high-pressure situations. Real-world problem-solving skills develop best when people are tested in environments that mirror the conditions they will face. Scenario-based training that immerses teams in realistic situations helps build these crucial capabilities.

I want to see broader adoption of scenario-based and hands-on training across the industry. Practical exercises like live drills, tabletop discussions, and crisis simulations prepare teams to make fast, sound decisions under pressure, whether addressing a terrorist incident, a physical security breach, or a digital attack. Technology can be a part of this. We are seeing exciting developments in training technologies. Immersive systems are delivering real value to our teams. In our business, we use virtual reality (VR) and digital twinning platforms to allow our teams to practice responding to high-risk scenarios in a safe, controlled environment. We can simulate anything from terrorist attacks to shoplifting, giving our security teams a chance to rehearse their responses in real-time. As the technology continues to advance, AI will become increasingly important in security training, offering the ability to simulate complex scenarios quickly and inexpensively.

While these technologies offer valuable benefits, I still view them as supplementary tools rather than complete replacements for in-person training. Real-world exercises remain essential. The combination of technology and in-person training provides the most well-rounded preparation for security teams.

Good training is even more effective when combined with the insights of a diverse team. People with different backgrounds bring different perspectives, which can help detect and mitigate threats. For example, on a recent site visit, I met one of our team members who had a customer service background. Her experience in customer service gave her a keen eye for details and the ability to quickly read body language. Following her security training, she developed an amazing ability to identify behavioural cues that could indicate a security risk. The diversity of experience and skills within a team leads to more comprehensive security solutions.

By combining innovative technologies and immersive, challenging programmes with practical experience, we can ensure our teams are prepared for the threats of tomorrow. With the right approach to training, security teams will be well-positioned to handle any challenges they face.

Bidvest Noonan and KeolisAmey Docklands Launches Green Cleaning on the DLR

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Bidvest Noonan is delighted to announce a landmark sustainable cleaning initiative in partnership with KeolisAmey Docklands, the operator of the DLR. We aim to substantially increase the sustainability of cleaning operations by eliminating single-use plastics, reducing packaging by 95%, and cutting product transport-related carbon emissions by 95% across the DLR network.

Bidvest Noonan and KeolisAmey Docklands are introducing a range of innovative cleaning solutions to achieve these ambitious goals. These solutions include pre-dosed formulations supplied in water-soluble sachets. This approach ensures precise usage, reduces waste, and eliminates the risk of chemical overdosing, which can negatively impact the environment.

Our partnership has also transitioned to recyclable packaging with certified compostable pouches, underscoring our commitment to environmentally friendly practices.

Adam Prust, Key Account Director at Bidvest Noonan, remarked, “This initiative is a major step forward in our commitment to sustainability. We are protecting the environment and setting a new standard in our commitment for the reduction of single use of plastics across the DLR contract.”

“We are thrilled to partner with KeolisAmey Docklands on this initiative,” said Keith Middleton, Managing Director at Bidvest Noonan. “This collaboration reflects our shared vision of creating a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable environment for commuters and staff alike. The new solutions make it easier and safer for our teams to perform their duties efficiently.”

The DLR, the busiest light railway in the UK, serves 100 million passenger journeys per year across its 40 km-long network. By implementing these sustainable practices, Bidvest Noonan and KeolisAmey Docklands are enhancing operational efficiency and significantly contributing to the sustainability of one of the UK’s most vital transport systems.

Bidvest Noonan and KeolisAmey Docklands Launches Green Cleaning on the DLR

by

Bidvest Noonan is delighted to announce a landmark sustainable cleaning initiative in partnership with KeolisAmey Docklands, the operator of the DLR. We aim to substantially increase the sustainability of cleaning operations by eliminating single-use plastics, reducing packaging by 95%, and cutting product transport-related carbon emissions by 95% across the DLR network.

Bidvest Noonan and KeolisAmey Docklands are introducing a range of innovative cleaning solutions to achieve these ambitious goals. These solutions include pre-dosed formulations supplied in water-soluble sachets. This approach ensures precise usage, reduces waste, and eliminates the risk of chemical overdosing, which can negatively impact the environment.

Our partnership has also transitioned to recyclable packaging with certified compostable pouches, underscoring our commitment to environmentally friendly practices.

Adam Prust, Key Account Director at Bidvest Noonan, remarked, “This initiative is a major step forward in our commitment to sustainability. We are protecting the environment and setting a new standard in our commitment for the reduction of single use of plastics across the DLR contract.”

“We are thrilled to partner with KeolisAmey Docklands on this initiative,” said Keith Middleton, Managing Director at Bidvest Noonan. “This collaboration reflects our shared vision of creating a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable environment for commuters and staff alike. The new solutions make it easier and safer for our teams to perform their duties efficiently.”

The DLR, the busiest light railway in the UK, serves 100 million passenger journeys per year across its 40 km-long network. By implementing these sustainable practices, Bidvest Noonan and KeolisAmey Docklands are enhancing operational efficiency and significantly contributing to the sustainability of one of the UK’s most vital transport systems.

Bidvest Noonan Achieves Milestone with First Comprehensive Carbon Footprint Assessment

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We are delighted to announce the completion of our first comprehensive carbon footprint assessment. This landmark achievement underscores our commitment to sustainability and our mission to create safer and healthier communities.

“Our first full carbon footprint assessment is a testament to our transparency and accountability,” said John King, ESG Director of Bidvest Noonan. “Our footprint demonstrates the work we have done in recent years. Understanding our emissions allows us to take meaningful steps to reduce our environmental impact and provide sustainable solutions for our clients.”

The assessment adheres to the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol and the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) standards.

The process involved a detailed analysis of emissions from the supply chain, employee commuting, fleet operations, and more. By engaging with suppliers and various departments, we identified key impact areas and opportunities for emission reductions.

“For customers, this signifies that Bidvest Noonan offers not only market-leading services but also environmentally conscious solutions, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable practices,” added John King.

Key findings showed that the supply chain and employee commuting are primary contributors to emissions, accounting for the vast majority of our footprint. Our business, which has adopted an electric-first policy for our fleet, has also implemented local recruitment policies, cycle-to-work schemes, and public transport initiatives to promote sustainable commuting for our 27,000 people. Additionally, we are working collaboratively with supply chain partners to further reduce scope 3 emissions.

Andrew Doyle, Procurement Director, commented on our efforts to assist the supply chain in becoming more sustainable: “We are actively working with our suppliers to enhance their sustainability practices. By collaborating closely and sharing best practices, we aim to reduce the overall environmental impact of our supply chain.”

Driving Forward with Our Carbon Reduction Plan

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In 2021, we launched our Carbon Reduction Plan, with the “Electric First” strategy at its core. Since then, we’ve made remarkable progress on this journey. 🔌🔋

Over the past year, more than 93% of our vehicle purchases have been electric, adding 135 electric vehicles to our fleet. To support this transition, we’ve enhanced of our offices with additional charging facilities for our colleagues.

This initiative is crucial, as vehicle emissions account for over 90% of our Scope 1 and 2 emissions. We are steadfast in our commitment to becoming fully electric in the coming years.

Our efforts extend beyond vehicles. We have also made significant progress in transitioning our machinery to electric alternatives, further supporting our sustainability goals.

Together, we’re driving towards a greener future.

Ethical Procurement and Sustainability: A Q&A with Gurjeet Parmar, Group Procurement Manager at Bidvest Noonan

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We sat down with Gurjeet Parmar, our Group Procurement Manager, who joined us in 2023 and is based in our London office. Since joining, Gurjeet has made a significant impact and today she is an integral part of our excellent procurement team.
Gurjeet brings a wealth of experience to her role, having worked with a diverse range of companies, including large, well-known multinationals. We were keen to hear about how she incorporates Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and promotes diversity within our supply chain, alongside her contributions to our thriving procurement team.

What does ethical procurement mean to you, and why is it important for companies?

Ethical procurement is fundamentally about ensuring that the goods and services we purchase are sourced in a way that respects human rights, supports fair labour practices, and protects the environment. It’s a holistic approach that integrates social, economic, and environmental considerations into our procurement decisions.
For companies in the UK and Ireland, it’s more than a legal obligation; it’s also a moral one. It’s about avoiding harm and actively contributing to positive change.
We need to make sure that our supply chains are free from exploitation and that we’re supporting practices that contribute to a better world. Beyond preventing the exploitation of people, we also have to ensure that we prevent the exploitation of the planet to protect the environments we all depend on.
It’s the right thing to do and it’s good for business. It enhances our reputation and builds trust with customers and stakeholders, who increasingly demand that businesses operate responsibly and ethically.

You mentioned preventing the exploitation of both people and the planet. How can we ensure that child labour and modern slavery don’t exist in our supply chains?

We take a very proactive approach. First, we conduct thorough due diligence and regular audits of our suppliers. This helps us to identify and address any risks of child labour or modern slavery. We also do random checks and have very strict onboarding processes to make sure our suppliers know what’s expected of them. Beyond preventing the exploitation of people, we also have to ensure that we prevent the exploitation of the planet to protect the environments we all depend on. This means advocating for sustainable practices throughout our supply chain.

Can you share some of the new or ongoing initiatives that you’re working on to make your procurement more sustainable?

There are so many exciting initiatives happening across our business, its on everyone’s agenda and the pace of positive change is truly incredible. To mention just a few, we’ve introduced a range of products like biodegradable detergents and hand towels made from recycled materials. We’re also reducing our carbon footprint by designing smaller packaging, which allows us to transport more products in fewer shipments. I’m sure many people know about the amazing technologies our innovation team has helped us introduce that enable us to reduce emissions and cut our consumption of resources such as energy and water.
Another significant initiative is our programme for recycling old uniforms. We partner with suppliers to convert these uniforms into usable materials, preventing waste and supporting our commitment to sustainability. These efforts are just a glimpse of the many ways we’re working to minimise our environmental impact and promote responsible resource use throughout our operations.


How do you encourage diversity and inclusion among your suppliers?

A diverse supply chain is crucial for fostering innovation and ensuring fairness. Our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) team has done outstanding work in driving this initiative forward. We’re hosting Diversity Supplier Days to engage with suppliers from various backgrounds, including those owned by women, minorities, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities. We’ve set specific targets to increase the number of diverse suppliers we work with, and we’re committed to supporting them long-term. It’s about creating an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and valued.

Finally, what advice would you give to other companies looking to begin their journey to ethical procurement practices?

My advice would be to start with clear policies and standards, and make sure everyone in your supply chain understands and adheres to them. Regular audits and open communication are key to maintaining these standards. Also, look for ways to support sustainability and diversity in your procurement practices. It’s not just good for business but also for the community and the planet. And remember, it’s an ongoing process—there’s always room for improvement.