WJ Group Delivers Over £83 Million in Social Value Through Sustainability, Innovation, and Community Impact

WJ Group, a UK leader in road safety, surface treatments, and line marking, has reported generating more than £83 million in social value during 2023.

This figure, independently verified by sustainability certifier PlanetMark, reflects the company’s commitment to delivering far-reaching environmental, social, and economic benefits alongside its core infrastructure work.

The total social value was calculated across WJ’s contracts with National Highways, Transport Scotland, and local highways authorities, and includes contributions in areas such as carbon reduction, skills development, volunteering, and local employment.

A key driver of WJ’s environmental impact has been the adoption of innovative materials and processes designed to reduce emissions and resource consumption. In particular, the company’s use of bio-based thermoplastic road marking materials led to a reduction of 30,901 tonnes of CO₂ last year alone.

This low-carbon alternative to traditional materials is one of several innovations introduced by WJ to decarbonise highway operations. Other initiatives include the use of hybrid and electric fleet vehicles, energy-efficient line marking systems, and cold-applied materials that reduce the need for high-temperature applications, further cutting emissions and improving operational safety.

Beyond environmental performance, WJ Group has placed significant emphasis on social mobility and community engagement. In 2023, the company offered a wide range of training and employment opportunities, including apprenticeships in engineering, operations, and business administration.

Working with local authorities and education providers, WJ focused on upskilling its workforce and creating new career pathways—particularly in economically disadvantaged areas where employment prospects are limited. These initiatives not only support local economies but also help build a more resilient and skilled workforce for the future.

WJ’s contribution to communities extends beyond employment. Over the past year, staff volunteered more than 1,195 hours on local projects, including the restoration of the historic Spitfire and Walrus monuments on Reginald Mitchell Way in Stoke-on-Trent.

The company also donated materials and labour to support the development and refurbishment of local playgrounds and recreational spaces, ran school-based road safety workshops for children, and supported careers events to inspire the next generation of infrastructure professionals. In addition, WJ has contributed to broader community wellbeing through mental health awareness campaigns, support for local sports teams, and the promotion of diversity and inclusion across its sites.

Paul Aldridge, Sustainability Director at WJ Group, emphasised that social value is a fundamental part of the company’s mission: “Our work improves safety and the quality of journeys across the UK, but we also recognise our wider responsibility to people and the planet. Whether it’s reducing our carbon footprint, supporting community projects, or creating local jobs, every part of our operation is focused on delivering lasting, measurable value for society.”

All reported outcomes were assessed using a rigorous methodology aligned with government best practice and certified by PlanetMark, ensuring full accountability and transparency. As the UK transitions toward a more sustainable and socially responsible infrastructure future, WJ Group continues to demonstrate how innovation, responsibility, and community investment can go hand in hand.