A dealership group which runs two Nissan outlets in Somerset has provided extra financial help for its staff as the cost of living crisis continues to cause issues for communities across the UK.
FJ Chalke, which operates Nissan dealerships in Yeovil and Wincanton, provided all its employees with a £600 winter support payment on top of their normal November salary.
Branch director George Chalke said: ‘‘As a long-established family business, we recognise that our staff make us what we are and consider them all part of the family. We run a profit share scheme to reward the loyalty of our team and were delighted to have made our largest loyalty payment to date back in the summer.
‘‘Full-time staff received almost £3,000 each and part-time employees were paid an equal share on a pro-rata basis. The payment was thoroughly deserved and recognition of the wonderful work of all our colleagues.
‘‘Despite this, it’s hard to ignore the current financial crisis. To help support our staff, we made the decision to pay all full-time employees a £600 winter support payment in their November salary. Part-time staff received payment on a pro-rata basis once again. We hope this will help relieve some stress and pressure for our staff as we head towards Christmas.’’
Leo Taylor, a service manager with FJ Chalke, was among those delighted by the company’s thoughtfulness and generosity.
He said: ‘‘To see a support payment of this size come in just before Christmas is nothing short of amazing. The effect it’s had on the team has been brilliant. It really is rewarding to know the company cares deeply about its staff.’’
FJ Chalke has a history of excellent staff relations – with many colleagues proving exceptionally loyal to the business.
One of its master technicians has worked for the company for 42 years, while other workshop and bodyshop technicians can boast 30, 26 and 19 years’ service, with several having started as apprentices.
The service reception team includes colleagues who have been with the firm for 35, 15 and nine years. One of its parts managers has completed 26 years’ service, while two sales executives have completed periods of service of 30 and 17 years.
FJ Chalke celebrated its 90th birthday in 2019. As well as Nissan, the company represents brands including Kia, Abarth, Fiat, Jeep, Suzuki and Maxus.