Associated Asphalt has celebrated its second year as one of the UK's top medium-sized companies to work for in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026.
Published by the national newspaper in partnership with WorkL, the survey recognised over 500 of the UK's top employers in a variety of sectors, honouring organisations that are leaders in creating outstanding workplaces and those offering exceptional wellbeing support.
Associated Asphalt, founded in 2014, secured its place on the list following an independent survey that assessed employee engagement, wellbeing and discretionary effort, the results of which highlighted the company's ‘progressive leadership culture' along with a ‘strong commitment to employee wellbeing', as reflected in its 90% happiness score.
The survey also found that 94% of employees said they are proud to work for the company, with the same percentage of people stating that the business ‘genuinely cares about their wellbeing'.
As a sector, the survey found an average employee flight risk score of 41%, but Associated Asphalt achieved a score of 2%, far below the national benchmark.
Nick Denning, managing director at Associated Asphalt, said: ‘We are thrilled to once again be recognised as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work. With a turnover of £135m and a team now of over 130 people, we've worked hard to build a supportive and collaborative culture where people from all backgrounds and stages feel valued, listened to, and empowered to grow and do truly groundbreaking things.
‘That's why it's fantastic to see that recognised. Our people are at the heart of our business, and this award is a credit to them all.'
Zoe Thomas, editor of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work, commented: ‘Our winning employers span sizes and sectors – from tiny charities and specialist law firms, to multinational fast-food chains and utility giants, and everywhere in between. The thread joining them is the belief that a happy workforce is a stepping stone to better performance, faster growth, and bigger profits. More than that, there's a collective instinct that a contented rank-and-file is a worthwhile business goal in and of itself.'
Lord Mark Price, founder of WorkL, added: ‘I am delighted that more companies than ever entered this year's Best Places to Work awards and more have been given winner's medals. The scores are higher than last year showing a greater focus being put on how employees feel. All our research at WorkL clearly shows that happier workforces drive better commercial performance.'
