Blacks and Millets given Silver Defence Employer Recognition Scheme award

JD Sports Group’s leading outdoors fashion and equipment retailers Blacks and Millets have both received a Silver Defence Employer Recognition Scheme award by the Ministry of Defence.

The award recognises organisations which employ and support those who serve, as well as veterans and their families.

Part of the JD Sports Group, which employs over 1,300 people at its head office in Greater Manchester and 2,400 within the main distribution warehouse in Rochdale, the two outdoor chains operate over 150 stores, employing service personnel throughout the UK.

As part of their application, the outdoors retailers demonstrated that service personnel and the armed forces community are not unfairly disadvantaged as part of their recruiting and selection processes. They also actively ensure that their workforce is aware of their positive policies towards defence peoples’ issues.

Partnerships Manager for Blacks Outdoor Retail Limited, Marie Stewart, commented: “As a business we recognise that those who serve or have served in the armed forces bring valuable skillsets and experience to our team, playing an integral part in our continued success.

“We are proud that the efforts of Blacks and Millets in supporting this community have been acknowledged with the Silver Defence Employer Recognition Scheme award and would like to thank our armed forces community for supporting us in this achievement.

“I am personally delighted to have been able share news of our silver award with colleagues at our head office in Greater Manchester and throughout the business. We are confident our approach will continue to bring benefits to our defence community employees and the business as a whole, as we strive towards achieving the gold award.”

Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Leo Docherty, said: “I would like to thank all the organisations who have proven their support for the defence community during such unprecedented and challenging times.

“The vast range of those recognised this year demonstrates how employing the armed forces community makes a truly positive and beneficial impact for all employers, regardless of size, sector or location.”

Blacks and Millets also offer all members of the armed forces, spouses and partners, veterans and the defence community 15% off purchases on all camping equipment and outdoor apparel and footwear made in-store and online.