Penrith software development company Penrillian has received the Small Employers Award from Cumbria Chamber of Commerce. Sponsored by the Work-Based Learning Provider Forum, the award recognises Penrillian's commitment to training and development, and their focus on whole-organisational learning.

Companies from all over Cumbria were nominated for the award by their customers, suppliers or staff. Penrillian was nominated for its 'continuous improvement' policy, now in its fourth year. This has been at the heart of a culture change within Penrillian that has seen the adoption of a new, ’agile’ way of working. Employees are encouraged to suggest improvements, many of which have been adopted.

“Our new approach has helped us to retain both customers and employees. Companies such as T-Mobile have chosen to work with us, because we are easy to do business with. This award is further recognition of the value of investing in your team and thinking carefully about your working practices.” Charles Weir, Managing Director

The award ceremony took place at Rheged, on Thursday 14 May 2009. The event was organised by The Chamber of Commerce, with guest speaker Richard Farleigh, of Dragons Den giving out the awards. Full details of the night are available at www.cumbriachamber.co.uk.