Bombardier has relaunched its flexible benefits scheme and moved it completely online in a bid to increase staff take-up.

The train manufacturer has also added carbon offsetting as a benefits option, as well as moving its share purchase plan and share incentive scheme on to the flexible benefits platform.
Bombardier’s 3,600 employees can also access their total reward statements online for the first time. Previously they were sent paper statements.

The company switched providers to Thomsons Online Benefits before the relaunch, which was communicated to staff using posters featuring photographs of Bombardier employees. A leaflet was also posted to home addresses outlining the perks available.

Most staff have limited access to the internet at work, so computers were made available at all the firm’s sites, as well as a helpline and walk-in clinics to guide people through the process.

Existing benefits in the flex scheme include childcare vouchers, a cycle-to-work scheme and private medical insurance. Staff were able to register for flex during May and the selections will be effective as of July.
Victoria Stewart, UK benefits adviser, said: “The challenge in a manufacturing environment is inspiring employees to take time to make their selections. We have had a great response so far, with the percentage of employees making benefits choices increasing from 76% to 81%.”

David Woods