Hitachi Europe increases Flex take up rate to 81%

Hitachi Europe Ltd. introduced flexible benefits to its UK employees in 2001. Benefex, a UK employee benefits and managed services provider took over the flex management of ëHiflexí in 2005 and has been responsible for the scheme design, communication, administration and running the scheme since. Take up rates for the scheme increased by 20% in the first year that ëHiflexí was re-launched to employees.

Renewals for 2006 have once again demonstrated consistent employee engagement with an additional increase to 81% take up rates of benefits. New benefits such as company paid Personal Accident cover were well received by employees with over 40% opting for some level of cover. The scheme is managed online and Hitachi have taken advantage of additional self service since the schemes launch incorporating Total Reward Statements, leave and absence management. This additional self service functionality has encouraged high website usage throughout the year.

At this years renewal Hitachi focused heavily on communication which included engaging with employees at roadshows/focus group sessions. These were conducted across all sites to ensure employees were aware of new benefits and changes in scheme design. Geoff Smith, Human Resources Director for Hitachi Europe commented ìWe are pleased with renewals for 2006 and are keen to keep the scheme fresh every year to sustain employee interest in our benefits. Take up rates were promising this year and it is positive feedback for us that our employees appreciate the benefits available. We look forward to working with Benefex to improve even further in the coming yearsî.