Summit on Business & Environment 2008:
Climate Change Opportunities

A half-day conference and networking event

2pm to 7pm, Monday 14th April 2008 – The Saïd Business School, Oxford University

Oxford Saïd logo
GBE

Speakers

Ella Heeks
Ethical Businesswoman of the Year 2007
Director
Abel & Cole

Abel & Cole is the UK's leading organic food company, with over 50,000 regular customers. Abel & Cole are pioneers of responsible business, with exemplary practices on everything from packaging and water conservation to employee representation and welfare.

Ella Heeks joined Abel & Cole in 2000, straight from Oxford University where she read PPE. When Heeks joined, Abel & Cole had 20 staff, a turnover of £500,000, and was struggling to cover costs. Nonetheless, Heeks saw the potential for a food business that could be truly healthy - not just for its customers, but also for its suppliers, staff and the environment. Heeks' first move was to get Abel & Cole's marketing moving on a shoestring budget. Heeks then gave increasing attention to the operations of the business, ensuring that it kept up with demand without compromising on quality or principles.

Today, Abel & Cole employs 350 people, turnover stands at £28 million and it is recognised as a model of sustainable business. Abel & Cole's success has attracted a string of awards, most notably:

  • The Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development, 2005
  • Great Places To Work 2006 – top 20 UK workplaces; top 100 in Europe
  • Fast Track 100 list 2007 and Fast Track 100 Green Award
  • Triodos Ethical Businesswoman of the Year 2007

Ella Heeks
Ella Heeks
Director
Abel & Cole