Sleep Country Canada rated 6th-best employer
By Furniture Today Staff -- Furniture Today, February 25, 2007
Toronto — Sleep Country Canada again has been named one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada for 2006. The specialty retailer placed sixth among the top 50 in the survey, conducted by consulting firm Hewitt Associates and co-sponsored by the Toronto Globe and Mail's R.O.B. Magazine.
Sleep Country's ranking in the program has improved from 20th in 2004 to 13th in 2005 to sixth in 2006. The 2006 results also include participation for the first time by employees at the company's Dormez-vous banner in Quebec.
"From our founding in 1994, we have focused on maintaining a strong, employee-centered culture through our continued expansion," said Stephen Gunn, chairman and CEO. "We believe our continued improvement in this survey over the last three years, as well as ranking as the top retailer, is evidence of this continued focus."
"We believe in paying for performance and supporting our employees' aspirations wherever possible," said Christine Magee, company president. "A workplace that supports commitment and motivation is one that can consistently produce good results."
The selection process relies primarily on confidential employee responses to a survey that measures the quality of the workplace culture. Hewitt also performs an in-depth analysis of company culture and human resources practices, and surveys top executives.
Among the key traits that distinguish best employers from other survey participants, according to Hewitt:
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The leadership team is aligned with each other and with employees.
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Employees are "intrinsically motivated."
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The basics — core practices such as recognition and employee development — are done well;
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People practices are designed, communicated and executed effectively.
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Employees are connected to the business, understanding its goals and objectives and their roles.
The operating subsidiary of the Sleep Country Canada Income Fund, Sleep Country Canada has 120 stores in eight regional markets in the country, plus 17 stores in Quebec under the Dormez-vous banner. The fund also owns 36-store Sleep America, which is based in Phoenix and was recognized as a top employer in Arizona in 2005.
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08/15/2008Sleep Country Canada sales up 9.4%
08/17/2008Sleep Country Canada rated 6th-best employer
03/01/2007Sleep Country Canada goes private
09/25/2008Sleep Country Canada enjoys 1Q sales surge
04/26/2006
