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Encouraging DIY learning and development

Giving L&D a new lease of life at the UK's largest distributor of building materials. 
Industry Sector
Retail
Solution
Content Library

The Challenge

Travis Perkins is the UK's largest distributor of materials for building, construction and home improvement. Its 30,000-plus staff work from more than 2,000 branches, stores and sites around Britain.

The organization wanted to update its L&D framework to create an inclusive, accessible learning toolkit that people could engage with. That way, employees could develop themselves.

Becky, L&D Manager (Digital Learning & Support Functions) says:

"Our learning management system was just seen as being for compliance training and mandatory training. We’re builders’ merchants, so we need to provide something easy to use."

The new learning solution had to:

  • Increase engagement with a personalized learning experience
  • Be easy to use and accessible for all employees
  • Offer opportunities to progress and unlock potential
  • Help foster a culture of learning and development
Our audience is typically from the older generation; they really struggle to understand where their development is coming from. So, we wanted to be able to offer them some easy-to-use resources that would help them in their own development and their career.
Becky Witkin
L&D Manager (Digital Learning & Support Functions) Travis Perkins Plc

The Solution

We worked with Travis Perkins to create online learning resources that staff can access any time, any place.

Many learners weren’t tech savvy, so digital tools had to be easy to pick up and use.

Our team of subject matter experts create and curate resources. They include articles, audio and videos on topics such as stress management, problem-solving and communication skills.

Now, learners can explore topics in the moment, or set time aside to develop further. And learning doesn’t have to eat into the working day. Employees can listen to podcasts on the morning commute, or watch animations in the evening at home. With one link, all staff can access content on giving or receiving feedback, for example. Or setting goals.

Becky says:

“Mind Tool is easy to use. It’s full of learning for any level. And there are so many different areas for people to develop in.”

Along with workshops and mentorship, our toolkit is an essential part of Travis Perkins' apprentice program. It helps candidates fast track careers and gain a Master's degree in their field. So far, the program has generated an extra £1.3 million profit from successful recruits.

The Results

Since the toolkit launched, user engagement has soared.

Positive feedback reveals that employees now take charge of their own development. They learn in their own time and pick up skills to grow their careers and themselves. They also report better wellbeing, and feel more comfortable and confident in their role.

Proof points

  • 13,890 visits to Mind Tools per year
  • Customized pages achieve highest hits
  • 24% of page views outside 9-5 working hours