A HYTHE-based furniture manufacturer has received Investors in People Award.

Gopak Ltd, which employs 48 people, and is based in Grange Road, was presented with the award at a ceremony at Leeds Castle last week.

Andrew Fieldwick, joint managing director of Gopak, said: "We are a furniture manufacturer that recognised a problem with increased absenteeism and low staff moral.

"We saw IIP as the perfect vehicle to address this area and saw real benefits within six months.

"We now have clearer communication channels and staff understand the role they play in our company objectives."

Claire Coday, chief executive of Business Link Kent, which supervises the IIP standard in Kent and Medway, said: "The IIP programme requires organisations to focus on the links between staff training and realising business goals.

"It is clear that Gopak has demonstrated a great deal of drive and determination in achieving the award.

"Gaining the IIP award gives organisations a crucial competitive edge.

"Staff development is key to success and we are delighted that so many companies in Kent have now achieved the IIP standard."