A ‘small business mentality with a big business approach’ was how judges summed up Hickory’s Smokehouse’s ethos, praising its strong sense of culture and connection with almost 2,500 team members, whatever level or role they hold.
Although acquired by Greene King in 2022, Hickory’s Smokehouse has very much retained its identity, continuing to take pride in extending that famously warm southern hospitality to its team as well as its guests.
Strong training network
Aside from providing individual training and development plans through a strong training network, and immediate benefits – from free barbecue and drinks on shift, to a birthday meal - there was praise for Hickory’s supportive culture, no doubt behind its impressively low 40% staff turnover rate.
From offering help in areas like finance and neurodiversity via practical workshops and webinar and regular welfare chats with Wellbeing Champions, to holding innovative ‘parents evenings’ for parents of its employees aged 16-18, judges thought Hickory’s responsibility as an employer, especially to those entering the industry – and the world of work - was impressive.
Employee consideration
There was also admiration for the way the senior leadership team, led by managing director John Welsh, acted on feedback it sought via yearly roadshows where the views of every employee were considered.
Finally, with imminent plans to open a new, larger HQ outside Chester designed around its staff – with training rooms, development kitchens and free parking among its main features – it was clear that Hickory’s Smokehouse continues to hold its people in the highest regard.
