subject: Encourage Your Staff To Cycle With Bike Shelters [print this page] With Britons becoming increasingly conscious of the need to stay physically active in order to keep fit and slim, it makes sense that a growing number of people are looking to get more exercise. In recent years, more and more commuters have opted to leave the car at home and get off public transport in favour of pedalling to and from work each day.
The more shrewd employers have already paid close attention to the possible benefits they could observe, which is why so many are choosing to install bike shelters for their employees to use.
The governments Cycle to Work scheme, launched in 1999, has proven particularly popular with workers and businesses alike and is now Britains most sought-after and fastest growing employee benefit. The initiative offers a discount of up to 42 per cent on new cycling equipment, as well as providing savings on National Insurance contributions.
In addition, encouraging more members of staff to get on their bikes can allow businesses to cut back on their organisational carbon footprint which is a key concern for many in these environmentally-conscious times. However, firms that fail to provide adequate cycling-related facilities may find it difficult to tempt people to abandon their motor vehicles and this is something that managers need to be aware of.
In addition, staff retention is a particularly important issue for many businesses in the current climate. More and more people are feeling the squeeze in terms of their finances, which may tempt them to seek pastures new. However, there are steps bosses can take to hang on to top talent and offering employee benefits may persuade valued workers to stay in their current role.
One of the numerous benefits of cycling to work is that its considerably cheaper than running a car or taking the train, so the financial argument is one of the most convincing when it comes to switching to a different mode of transport. By installing a bike shelter at your premises, you can give your staff another reason not to leave as well as helping them save money, which is particularly important with fuel prices persistently high and public transport fares expected to rise again.
Another potential benefit to employers is the positive impact cycling can have on workers physical condition. As well as improving general fitness, pedalling to work every morning can be the ideal way to start the day, helping them get into the right frame of mind ahead of the daily routine. This is why so many companies are doing all they can to coax staff out of their cars and on to their bikes.
