At A-Gas, we are on a global journey to drive continuous improvement and create a culture of operational excellence. Following successful launches in the US and the Netherlands, we are excited to introduce our Business Excellence (BEx) programme to our UK operations.
This marks a significant step forward in how we collaborate to deliver even better outcomes for our customers, our people, and our planet.
What is Business Excellence?
Business Excellence is a structured programme designed to embed Lean thinking across our organisation. It focuses on creating consistent, efficient ways of working that remove waste, build capability, and put the customer at the heart of everything we do.
By adopting proven tools and behaviours, our teams are empowered to solve problems, make improvements, and take ownership of delivering great results every day.
Why it Matters for the UK
Launching the BEx programme in the UK means we are building on the great work already underway across the A-Gas Group.
BEx is about standardising best practice, sharing what works, and unlocking even more value across our UK sites.
Building on the learnings from our launches in the US and the Netherlands, we are training teams in Lean fundamentals and continuing our relationship with the Lean Competency System, formerly part of Cardiff University, starting with Lean Thinking: Level 1A throughout our Business Excellence Academy. This helps create a common language and equips our people with practical skills to make meaningful improvements right from day one.
Jay Beresford, Head of Site and Operations, A-Gas in the UK, said: “Since introducing the Business Excellence principles to our operations, we have witnessed remarkable improvements across our site. Productivity and efficiency have increased significantly, and our teams are more engaged than ever.
Business Excellence has given us a clear framework for driving continuous improvement. I am proud of the transformation we have achieved so far and look forward to continuing to embed Business Excellence in how we work moving forward."
Putting People First
One of the most exciting parts of BEx is how it brings people together. Through tools like daily reviews and performance boards, teams are encouraged to collaborate, raise ideas, and celebrate success.
With BEx, leaders are supported to guide, while every individual is given the opportunity to make a difference.
This is not about adding more work — it’s about working smarter, removing barriers, and creating time for what really matters.
Faye Maddocks, Commercial Director, A-Gas in the UK commented: "Adopting Business Excellence has taken our customer focus to new heights and strengthened our position in a competitive market.
It’s not just about internal performance; it’s about creating long-term value for our customers and stakeholders. With a clear roadmap for growth, I’m confident that these principles will continue to drive commercial success and support our strategic ambitions for the future."
What’s Next?
As we roll out BEx in the UK, we’re already seeing the energy and enthusiasm from teams on the ground. From faster turnaround times to improved stock visibility and clearer communication, the benefits are being felt across the business.
This is just the beginning. Business Excellence is a long-term commitment to doing things better — not just for today, but for the future. By investing in our people and processes now, we’re building a stronger, more resilient A-Gas that’s ready to meet the challenges ahead.
We are not just building better processes; we’re building a better A-Gas, aiming for exceptional results by doing what we do, but doing it better!
