Top‐to‐bottom training fuels growth at Commercial Utility Brokers : More qualified employees transform micro‐business into a major player

Purpose – The article aims to describe how award‐winning training for all levels of staff fuelled significant growth at Commercial Utility Brokers (UK) Ltd, which offers a brokerage and management service for businesses looking for low‐cost energy, telecommunications and other utilities. Design/methodology/approach – The article explains the reasons for the training, the form it has taken and the results it has achieved. Findings – After CUB invested £5,000 in employee training it increased its turnover by almost £400,000, changing in the process from a micro‐business into a major player. Practical implications – Other rewards the training has reaped, including a more confident, competent workforce that has significantly improved working practices and generated fresh business thinking, are revealed. Also, a track to growth that other small companies could emulate is outlined. Originality/value – The article quantifies the significant returns that investment in training can bring.