Given the year we have just had , surviving was objective number one for many businesses . For those that managed to manoeuvre through fairly unscathed , the goal is now to try and improve their market share . With every business having its own unique USPs , it is difficult for decision makers and consumers to ascertain which products and services are actually the best . So , how can a brand or company standout in today ’ s marketplace ? For me , certifications are a really strong place to start sorting through the pack . They allow a product , service and company to be judged purely on its quality , safety , morals , values and efficiency . This external recognition provides buyers with greater reassurance in an organisation and equips installers , showrooms and resellers with more USPs that can be called upon when trying to finalise a sale .

Unbiased Sources

When making expensive purchases for the home , trust is a crucial word for buyers . Can they trust this business ? Do they trust what they are being told ? Even when the answer is yes , one can never be 100 percent sure . There

is always a sale on the line . This is where accreditations have a big role to play . They provide hard facts and can show a company ’ s commitment to excellence or demonstrate its moral and ethical compass . These are all elements that get assessed before a major buying decision is made .

As consumers , we all welcome hearing third party recommendations . They are an unbiased source , so we put much more weight on what they say . Accreditations have the same impact .

Sustainably Conscious

ISO 14001 is a highly valued accreditation that demonstrates that a business has met with high environmental standards and is continuously managing and minimising how its operations impact the environment . We often hear other manufacturers talking about their ‘ environmental record ’, yet when it comes to proof , they have nothing to show for it . Being certified puts that all important stamp of approval on it , giving added reassurance to buyers ..

As a business , being seen as being ‘ green ’ is important because sustainability credentials have a significant impact on the tender process , annual reports and winning big contracts . Even the smallest of changes , like switching to the right supplier who is as environmentally aware as you , can be a change for good that supports your own sustainability drive .

At Origin , our environmental management system means we are ISO 14001 accredited because of the control we have and our record of reduction , reusing and recycling of materials

. Just as architects , contractors and specifiers need to choose the right supplier , we expect our suppliers to uphold the same quality , health and safety , and environmental standards as we do .

Collaboration

Certifications are often the culmination of a business ’ collective hard work , and they need every employee to buy into the culture and processes for it to truly succeed .

Buyers understand this . At Origin , we are ISO 14001 ( environmental ), 9001 ( quality ) and 45001 ( health and safety ) accredited , and are very proud to hold all three of these certifications . It helps us stand out from the crowd in an increasingly busy marketplace , and gives our Partners an even greater ability to sell our products . Plus , striving for better and being the best version of ourselves is something

that Origin prides itself on , and is something that our Partners and consumers like about us as a brand .

In summary

Those businesses that have historically overlooked certifications need to think again . They act as a guide on the standards to aim for , meaning you can identify areas in need of improvement , and then use the stamp of approval as part of the selling process . They enhance a business ’ reputation and bottom line . For Origin , they also give our Partners and installers even greater confidence and trust in us , which is vital if we want Origin products to be installed in homes up and down the country , transforming the way families enjoy their home – from inside to out .

For more information about Origin , please visit www . origin-global . com