TEAM SPIRIT IS a racing cert at LDF, where the workforce of 126 people has a day at Chester races every summer with a free bet on the first race and an all-day bar. This new entry earns a 76% positive score overall for its Fair Deal. Sales consultants at this commercial finance broker, specialising in securing loans for the professions and asset and vehicle finance, make about £52,500 a year before performance-related pay and profit bonuses. People are happy with their pay and benefits (81%). A working week from 38 to 45 hours is not considered too much by staff in Ewloe, north Wales (73%). The firm says: "We are proud of the fact that at 5.30pm, 95% of employees leave for the night. We finish early on a Friday — a small but incredibly popular perk." More than half of the staff has a company car but the broker is trying to be greener by using mugs rather than throwaway cups, hand dryers and recycled paper (87%, a top 10 score). Staff say managers at all levels listen rather than simply telling them what to do (81% for managers; 80% for senior bosses). Half a million pounds a year is spent on training and hard work is appreciated. After good first-half results last year, the firm closed the office for an afternoon, gave everyone sweets and hired a private cinema. Staff are not itching to leave (89%). www.ldf.co.uk
