UKFast Art in the Workplace

4 September 2009

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Welsh-born Lawrence Jones is an entrepreneur with a passion for art. His business UKFast has grown from two to 100 people in the last 10 years, elevating him to the top floor of Manchester's City Tower. Floor to ceiling windows offer a spectacular panorama of exquisite natural beauty; everything from Wales to the Pennines, and opposite this astonishing view hangs a collection of inspirational artwork.

UKFast's art collection includes pieces by Sheila Meeks, Mary Feddon, Helen Bradley, Oldham-born John Thompson and the pride of Salford - LS Lowry.

"I chose to fill the office with these works of art because they are beautiful and inspirational," says Jones. "My team is encouraged by the paintings rather than having to stare at the same old magnolia walls or bland stock imagery. They represent achievement and a sense of professionalism"

Corporate art is seen as a great way to sponsor talent but it is by no means a new idea. The Royal Bank of Scotland owns a large collection of artwork which used to hang in the great banking halls. Although these halls have long morphed into bars and restaurants the collection remains intact. There has recently been a public outcry regarding whether the art should be displayed and regarded as public property now the bank is owned in the most part by the taxpayer.

Buying artwork has traditionally been portrayed as a great investment which will increase in value in the years to come. But hanging art in the workplace has benefits beyond the financial.

"We choose to support young and local artists," says Jones. "As well as invest in renowned artwork. All our pieces and/or artists have a strong connection with North Wales or the North West of England.

"As a company we're in touch with our responsibilities in the community. We're the main sponsors of Sale Sharks Premiership Rugby Club and support Manchester Camerata as well as other organisations. All of this inspires passion - which is one of our core values as a company."

As a business built on feedback Jones consistently looks to his team for opinions. He took a poll of the UKFast team which found 80 per cent of employees enjoy the artwork in the office and wanted to see more.

"I would encourage other businesses to get involved with purchasing artwork," enthuses Jones. "But don't just buy it and store it in a vault, these are works that deserve to be seen and enjoyed by all."

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