TO AVOID A mad rush for bargains, sales of samples are carefully organised by staff at Gratterpalm. The advertising agency in Leeds lets employees have samples left over from photoshoots in return for a donation to charity; last year, this raised more than £1,000 for Wheatfields hospice. The agency lists Asda, Greggs and B&Q among its clients so there are plenty of samples to go around — and there's no danger of sharp elbows at the sales ruining the atmosphere. It is brimming with team spirit, scoring 90% positive for My Team, in 13th place on this survey. Colleagues go out of their way to help (91%, eighth) and care about each other (92%). The staff of 141 included 42 new joiners last year, so the focus has been on team-building. The mood in the company is upbeat, reflecting its rise from 51st place in 2011 to 30th in our list this year. Gratterpalm has moved to the “greenest” office in Leeds, with rainwater from the roof used to flush the lavatories. Anyone can add to the office's music playlist, and everyone looks forward to the managing director's doughnut trolley run.
