Staples - Platts Global Energy Awards Winner2

As I watched Bob Valair accept the Platts Global Energy Award on behalf of Staples as the winner in the “Corporate Social Responsibility” category, I couldn’t be more proud of all that Bob and the Staples team have accomplished over the year.  Staples is now a two-time winner of the Platts Global award, winning the award for “Energy Efficiency Program of the Year – Commercial End-User” in 2011.  I have a couple reflections on the characteristics of the Staples’ program that I believe has made them worthy of such awards:

Tireless Pursuit of Goals:  The Staples’ energy and sustainability programs exemplify what it means to continually seek new ways to improve company performance in many different business climates and multiple evolutions of technology, never believing that there is not more to be achieved.  This also comes through in the nomination process and Staples’ diligence in sharing their accomplishments to make this type of recognition possible.  Taking the time to document program accomplishments and nominate for the awards annually helps motivate the team to continue to dig deeper.

Building a True Team:  The members of the Staples’ energy and sustainability teams encompass a broad group of internal team members and external partners, who include consulting companies, technology suppliers, utilities, and energy suppliers.  In many cases, companies who may compete for business with other clients, work collaboratively on behalf of Staples, bringing their best solution to bear and challenging each other to continue innovating.

Sharing the Recognition:  Bob has done a fantastic job of making the awards that Staples has achieved something that not only he can be proud of, but takes every opportunity to extend the recognition on to team members who contribute.  I know this is a key determinant in allowing the Staples program to continue to achieve new heights annually.

Congratulations again to Bob Valair and Staples on your award!!