Sumitomo

The issue

In 2012 Sumitomo launched INDICATE the company's employee benefits package which included childcare vouchers, healthcare and holiday benefits. The scheme was successful with 77% of eligible employees purchasing a taxable benefit from the scheme.

Sumitomo wanted to continue with the INDICATE scheme but adding additional products for 2013 to recruit and retain employees.

The resolution

Activa introduced Optimizer, an exciting low cost employee tax efficient car scheme. The employees have a one stop shop to acquire a brand new vehicle delivered to their door in exchange for a monthly salary deduction.

Sumitomo decided to offer the scheme to their employees in addition to the car allowance package. The scheme went live on 1st April.

Activa carried out several employee workshops at the various company sites throughout the UK, demonstrating the driver website and looking at the vehicle selection process. Activa were also able to illustrate the cost savings and benefits to employees should they wish to join the scheme.

The impact

We had a very positive response from the employees with great interest and questions raised. By meeting the employees face to face we were able to reassure them about committing to the scheme and outlining all of the benefits.

Since the introduction of the scheme in April we received our first orders within a matter of weeks. Both the management and staff at Sumitomo are delighted with Optimizer which has added the final touch to their already enhanced employee benefits scheme.