Scottish Leather Group selects Standard Life for pensions
Scottish Leather Group has moved its employees into Standard Life’s contract-based defined contribution scheme, the Group Flexible Retirement Plan, following a competitive tender process. The transition is complete, with the manufacturer appointing Standard Life as its workplace pension provider after working with adviser Broadstone to review options.
The company sought a provider that could handle the move efficiently while offering strong governance, member support, and digital tools. As part of the transition, Standard Life delivered a dedicated employer microsite and a programme of member communications. Two direct offer transfer value exercises were also completed, helping members consolidate pension savings and increase engagement with their retirement planning.
A provider chosen for member engagement
Scottish Leather Group, which supplies sustainable leather to the aviation, automotive, rail, and luxury goods industries, ran a full review of potential providers. The goal was to improve on a long-established scheme and find a partner that could support long-term ambitions for employee financial wellbeing.
“Throughout the selection process, Standard Life demonstrated a strong understanding of our business and our people, with a clear focus on helping members engage with their pensions and plan for the future,” said Lesley Chalk, company secretary at Scottish Leather Group.
“Their combination of personal service, digital capabilities and high-quality support gave us confidence they were the right partner, and our experience of working with the team since appointing them has only reinforced our decision.”
Related: Many adults anxious about pension choices
Many mid-sized employers are reassessing whether their existing pension arrangements still fit the needs of a modern workforce. Contract-based schemes like the one chosen here shift the responsibility for investment choices to the individual member, which makes communication and digital access a bigger part of the equation than it used to be. Many adults are anxious about pension choices, and the shift to member-led decision-making can heighten that concern.
How the transition was managed
Broadstone, which advised Scottish Leather Group throughout the process, said the review examined a range of providers and propositions. The focus was on service, governance, implementation capability, and ongoing support rather than cost alone.
“Standard Life demonstrated a clear focus and commitment to member outcomes whilst understanding Scottish Leather Group’s objectives,” said David Pye, head of client development at Broadstone. “We’re pleased to have supported Scottish Leather Group through the selection process and transition to this new partnership.”
Emma Furlonger, Standard Life’s managing director of workplace and retail intermediary, said the positive engagement from members reflected the collaborative approach taken by both teams. She added that the firm looks forward to strengthening the relationship and supporting employees throughout their retirement savings journey.
The completed transfer covers all members of the previous arrangement. Standard Life will now administer the scheme, with the employer microsite remaining in place as a resource for staff.
