About
I joined A&J back in 1997 – seven years after the business was formed. I came on board in sales as my older brother’s apprentice. I took a fast-learning track, working long hours and getting involved in anything and everything that was required. An attitude that remains engrained in how we approach work. The passion and pride I have for A&J still burn bright.I am one of 8 brothers and sisters. 6 of these have worked within our team at some point over the past 32 years. I acquired the business in 2012, supported by a great team who have really embraced and adapted to changes within the workplace.
I love developing relevant, suitable solutions to support our team, customers, and suppliers in whatever they need to be efficient and effective. Learning from anyone and everyone in their wants and needs for the workplace so that we have a relevant business for the future.
I get a real buzz out of helping our customers consolidate their supply chain and reduce their carbon footprint with fewer deliveries whilst saving time, energy, and hassle.?
Our mission is to help make workplaces work and continue to be Oxfordshire’s leading workplace solutions provider.
Organisation
Content
Aston & James Wins Dealer of the Year at National Industry...
The BOSS Federation National Industry Awards Since 1905 BOSS has been the authoritative body for the UK business supplies industry, supporting the sector and its people. It is a not-for-profit organisation that concentrates its efforts on playing a strategic role in the support, promotion and protection of the industry. BOSS represents all businesses along the […]
100 Coats for Those Who Are Homeless in Oxfordshire This Winter
Help us donate 100 coats for those who are homeless in Oxfordshire this winter! Many of us enjoy the luxury of heat and shelter when the weather turns, but many people in Oxfordshire don’t have anywhere to call home. When the cold weather commences those in our community desperately need clean warm coats to help […]
Family-Owned Workplace Supplies Business Aston & James named as a Finalist...
The BOSS Federation national industry awards Since 1905 BOSS has been the authoritative body for the UK business supplies industry, supporting the sector and its people. It is a not-for-profit organisation that concentrates its efforts on playing a strategic role in the support, promotion and protection of the industry. BOSS represents all businesses along the […]
5 Tips on How to Brighten Up and Modernise Your Workspace
Here’s how to brighten up and modernise your workspace Your workspace is more than just a place to work; it’s a reflection of your brand, productivity, and creativity. In today’s fast-paced business world, creating a vibrant and modern workspace is key to enhancing employee satisfaction and overall efficiency. At Aston & James, we understand the […]
You’re Invited to Our 34th Anniversary Showcase Event
Following our successful events at Aston & James during the past 2 years, we’re doing it again, but bigger! Why? because it’s our 34th anniversary. We are hosting our Anniversary Showcase event on the 13th of June for our customers, suppliers and Oxfordshire businesses in a relaxed set-up in a marquee located outside Aston & […]
The Aston & James 34th Anniversary Showcase Event
We are hosting our Anniversary Showcase event on the 13th of June In our 34th year of serving you, Aston & James is thrilled to invite you to our anniversary event with a special emphasis on sustainability and workplace well-being. Join us for an enriching experience that blends celebration with commitment. This is a relaxed […]
Aston & James and Oxfordshire Mind Join Forces for Workplace Well-being...
Aston & James, in collaboration with Oxfordshire Mind, is proud to announce the launching of their Workplace, Well-being and Wellness Roadshow during Mental Health Awareness Week from the 13th to the 19th of May 2024. This innovative initiative aims to promote mental and physical well-being in the workplace, reaching businesses across Oxfordshire. The Workplace, Well-being […]
Hybrid Working: Seeking The Perfect Balance Between Office and Home
In the era of transformed work dynamics, employees are actively seeking the elusive equilibrium between the traditional office and the comforts of home. As hybrid work gained greater momentum, it brought forth a set of novel challenges. This article delves into the burgeoning trend of flexible office spaces, exploring the intricacies of safeguarding personal belongings, […]
7 Ways to Transform your Office Space with Furniture
Your office is more than a space; it’s a canvas waiting to be adorned with a harmonious blend of functionality and style. Our latest blog post delves into the functionalities of colour, ergonomics, well-being, furniture, and optimising the space in your office. Integrating some or all of the options mentioned, you can transform your office […]
Embrace Sustainability for a Greener Workplace in 2024
A Guide to Making Greener Choices in 2024 As we’re in the new year, there’s no better time to embark on a journey towards a more sustainable and eco-conscious workplace. At Aston & James, we’re committed to helping you make greener choices, and this blog is your roadmap to embracing sustainability in 2024. Understanding the […]
Elevating Your Workspace in 2024: The Future of Office Design
Office Design Trends for 2024 The landscape of office spaces has undergone a transformative shift driven by evolving workplace strategies. In 2024, the focus is on delivering high-quality office environments with pleasing aesthetics in today’s workplaces to align with the changing expectations of businesses. Premium Workspace Demands: As companies explore reducing office footprints, the emphasis remains […]
Aston & James Wins at National Industry Awards
Industry Celebration of 2023 Aston & James are delighted to have won the New Dealer of the Year award at The Office Friendly Awards 2023. The Office Friendly national industry awards Office Friendly was founded in 1994 when independent business supply resellers teamed up to achieve exclusive trading arrangements. They realised that the more you […]
100 Coats for Those Who Are Homeless in Oxfordshire This Winter
Help us donate #100 coats for those who are homeless in Oxfordshire this winter! Whilst many of us enjoy the luxury of heat and shelter when the weather turns, many people in Oxfordshire don’t have anywhere to call home. When the cold weather commences people who are homeless in our community desperately need clean, warm […]
Study Finds Solutions to Enhance Worker Productivity, Health, and Creativity
The study presents clear evidence of the positive effect of workplace initiatives on employee satisfaction across various characteristics. Compared to non-certified spaces, offices with health and wellness initiatives showed greater levels of satisfaction in the following key areas… In today’s rapidly evolving work landscape, the quest to create workspaces that enhance both productivity and […]
Single-Use Plastic Ban in England
Embracing Sustainability: England’s single-use plastics ban A Step Towards a Greener Future In a historic move towards a greener future, England has implemented a ban on specific single-use plastic items, effective from October the 1st, 2023. This progressive step is a response to the global call for reducing plastic pollution and fostering a more sustainable […]
Top Reasons Aesthetic Office Design is Key in the Modern Workplace
In the contemporary business landscape, aesthetic office design has risen to prominence as a fundamental element shaping the modern workplace. It plays a pivotal role in moulding employee experiences, driving productivity, and ultimately influencing overall business success. Amidst the backdrop of rapid technological advancements, hybrid work structures, and evolving employee expectations, creating an attractive and […]
Unlocking the Advantages of a Standing Desk: Why Make the Switch?
What are the benefits of a standing desk? A standing desk not only allows you to stand while you’re working, but you also have the option to sit using a high stool. The desktop can also be lowered and used with a chair. There are many reasons for looking at a sit-stand desk solution. Uncover […]
Remote Work vs In-Office: The Battle Goes On in Today’s Workplace
The modern workplace landscape has been forever altered by the rise of remote work. As technology advances and employee preferences shift, the debate between remote work and in-office work continues to be a hot topic. Both options offer distinct advantages and challenges, raising important questions about productivity, collaboration, work-life balance, and company culture. In this blog, […]
What is a DSE Assessment?
Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessments are essential for ensuring the health and well-being of employees who use computers and other display screen equipment at work. As an employer, you must protect your workers from the health risks of working with display screen equipment, such as PCs, laptops, tablets and smartphones. In this article we will […]
Mastering Ergonomics: From Head to Toe – Tips for a Healthy...
What is Ergonomic Office Furniture & Why is it Important? Ergonomics: Adopting the Right Posture The modern workplace has undergone significant changes in recent years, with many organisations shifting to hybrid working. This has led to an increase in health issues such as back pain, neck pain, and other musculoskeletal disorders. As a result, […]
Understanding the Importance of Safety and Health at Work: A Comprehensive...
Employers have legal obligations and regulations to maintain safety & health at work and to implement a safe and healthy work environment. The following strategies can be followed to protect employees from injuries and illnesses, which can be costly for both employees and employers. A safe and healt… Safety and health at work are […]
Local Workplace Supplies Aston & James Named as a Finalist in...
The Oxfordshire Business Awards Since its establishment in 1994, the Awards have recognised the achievements of numerous businesses in Oxfordshire, including recognition for business entrepreneurs, technology excellence, and innovation. The Awards are organised and supported by 15 of the county’s leading organisations to acknowledge, reward, and promote the excellence of businesses and organisations based in […]
You’re Invited to The Aston & James Adapting to the Changing...
Following our successful event held last year, we continue to adapt our range and services to bring together the latest insights and innovations in workplace facilities, products, and services Pop by anytime between 10am-3pm on May 11th to join us at our Adapting to the Changing Workplace Event, where we will showcase our products and […]
5 Simple Steps to Achieve a Sustainable Office Washroom by Reducing...
The issue of plastic waste has become a major environmental concern in recent years. According to research, over 8 million tonnes of plastic waste enters the world’s oceans every year, and this has a devastating impact on marine life and the ecosystem. As such, reducing plastic waste has become a critical priority for businesses, increased […]
Celebrating National Pencil Day – A Tribute to the Writing Tool...
National Pencil Day is a celebration of one of the most ubiquitous writing instruments in history. It is observed every year on March 30th and is a time to appreciate the significance of the pencil and its contributions to the world of art, literature, and education. An essential tool used by millions of people around […]
Top 10 reasons why you should consider sticking local to support...
Supporting locally-owned businesses can have numerous benefits for both individuals and the community as a whole. Here are ten top reasons why you should consider sticking local and supporting your local businesses: Boost your local economyWhen you purchase from locally-owned businesses, you are contributing to the local economy by keeping money within the community. This […]
Fairtrade: Empowering Communities and Ethical Consumerism
What is Fairtrade? Fairtrade is a global movement that aims to promote better working conditions, fair prices, and sustainable practices for farmers and workers in developing countries. Fairtrade organisations work directly with farmers and workers to ensure that they receive fair wages, safe working conditions, and access to resources and training that can help improve […]
Catering Supplies and Equipment Right on Your Doorstep
Welfare in the workplace There isn’t a lot that an employer needs to legally provide. In fact, all that is necessary is drinking water. This may be clean tap water, from a water dispenser or bottled. *Alongside free clean water, an employer must make available clean seating facilities for resting and breaks with adequate washroom […]
Tips to create a more eco-conscious workplace
Tips to create a more eco-conscious workplace With the environmental topic becoming more of a significant focus to implement in a business it can seem to be a mammoth task. So where do you start? Check out 5 simple ways to create a more sustainable workplace: More and more businesses are adapting to sustainability practices […]
Super-Deduction Tax Breaks on Office Furniture – What Is It and...
As businesses migrate back into their offices, the UK government is working to make this shift more appealing. New super-deduction tax relief was introduced last year to encourage businesses to invest in productivity-enhancing plant and machinery assets to promote growth and development, helping to make offices more appealing and comfortable places to work. Plant and […]
How to Ensure Your Hybrid Workers Are GDPR Compliant
As more employees opt for hybrid working arrangements, businesses are faced with new challenges There’s been a shift from working at home post-pandemic to hybrid working now, where employees share their working time between the office and on the go or at home. While some workers are keen to migrate back into the office environment, […]
Office Design Trends for 2023
No one could predict what the impact of the last three years would have on workplaces. From a 9 to 5 in the office to remote working and now hybrid working, the pandemic has redefined the use of the office. This evolution of the workplace has caused companies worldwide to rethink and […]
Aston & James Wins Campaign of the Year at National Industry...
The industry celebration of 2022 Aston & James are delighted to have won the Campaign of the Year award at The BOSS Awards 2022. The BOSS Federation national industry awards Since 1905 BOSS has been the authoritative body for the UK business supplies industry, supporting the sector and its people. It is a not-for-profit organisation […]
Why Your Workspace Environment Is Key to Better Productivity
Imagine: Modern Workplaces If you think back to the days when you imagined what you thought your working life would look like, the chances are that you thought of a sleek office and a smart suit. What were you doing, how did you feel and where were you? That vision compared to the place you […]
Sustainability In the Workplace: why it’s important
Green products are becoming a must! We only get one planet and taking proper care of it has become a top priority of today’s consumers. In a global survey from IBM, 51% of respondents said that environmental sustainability is more important to them today than in previous years. Many are practicing what they preach, with […]
Local Workplace Supplies Business Aston & James named as a Finalist...
The BOSS Federation national industry awards Since 1905 BOSS has been the authoritative body for the UK business supplies industry, supporting the sector and its people. It is a not-for-profit organisation which concentrates its efforts on playing a strategic role in the support, promotion and protection of the industry. BOSS represents all businesses along the […]
10 Office Recycling Ideas
Be a Go-Green Hero with these tips Going green around the workplace, protecting the planet, recycling, developing a (CSR) corporate social responsibility strategy – the message is finally been acted on, and businesses are making conscious decisions to make changes. Some of these take time, including fundamental policy alterations, but there are many small changes […]
Introducing Our Exhibition-Style Mobile Wellbeing Pop-up
Helping You Create Workplaces That Are Fit for Work, Fit for Purpose, Fit for Life Our office furniture showroom in Witney displays a range of products that supports workplace wellness, but we recognise that not everyone may be able to visit us. That’s why we have created an exhibition-style mobile pop-up so we can go out on […]
How to Recognise Eco-Friendly Products
How to Recognise Eco-Friendly Products How do you know if products are eco-friendly? Going green is a way of life nowadays that can have a huge impact on the world we live in. Whether you run your own company and want to reduce your business’s footprint or you are just trying to reduce your […]
What Makes a Successful Hybrid Worker and How to Implement This
Hybrid working solutions The recent pandemic has increased employee demand for flexible working practices, although hybrid working isn’t feasible for all businesses, many management teams who can support the scheme remain sceptical about the arrangements of the hybrid option. However, incorporating this into a workplace can improve work-life balance, boost motivation and productivity, and contribute […]
The New Plastic Packaging Tax Explained
When does this take effect? Effective from the 1st of April 2022 HMRC introduced a new tax on plastic packaging (NPPT) that contains less than 30% recycled content. From April 1st, the tax will be added to all plastic packaging that doesn’t include a minimum of 30% recycled content and will be presented as an uplift in […]
The Keep It Local Week Campaign Is for Everyone
It’s ‘Keep It Local Week’ between 9-15th May 2022 We’re all familiar with the saying ‘Actions Speak Louder Than Words’, yet it’s so easy to support a cause without actually taking any action. The idea of buying local is strongly agreed to be a good thing… but too often we default back to the easier […]
Aston & James Showcase Event
We are hosting our Workplace Event on May the 12th where we’ll be showcasing our products & services to support you wherever you work.
How to Donate Your Unwanted Office Furniture & Supplies
Make a difference in your workplace Taking time to be more conscious of our environment is more prominent than ever nowadays. As you know, Aston & James are committed to sustainability. We offer an award-winning ink and toner collection service, and paper collections for recycling. One new way we are reducing waste is through our […]
What Is the Difference Between FSC and PEFC?
What does it mean if a product is PEFC or FSC certified? These two key certification schemes are most widely used when explaining sustainable office paper: The programmes ensure that forest management and responsible harvesting take place and the paper that comes from the managed forests is fully traceable to its original place. Programme for […]
10 Top Reasons to Support Locally Owned Businesses
Topics such as climate change, Brexit, the global pandemic and even war now offer real challenges to businesses and heighten the need for us to reconsider our buying choices. One choice you can make that will provide measurable value is buying from a local company. See more of the real reasons why supporting your local […]
Love Your Workspace With 14% Off
The importance of wellbeing is key now with more people working from home. Almost all of us have had to change the way we work, whether our future is office or home-based, or even both. It’s been a key priority for Aston & James to align themselves with the changing workplace wherever you choose to […]
Collecting coats for Oxford Homeless Movement
Do you have coats in your wardrobe that could help people more in need?
Fit for Work, Fit for Purpose, Fit for Life
The importance of wellbeing has increased with people working from home. Almost all of us had to change the way we work and contemplate what the future looks like. It’s been a key priority for Aston & James to align themselves with the changing workplace wherever you choose to work.
Aston & James November Newsletter
It’s been a while. A Warm welcome to our Latest newsletter…. We have seen and experienced a fair bit of change over the last 18 months. The pandemic has impacted all of us, changing / challenging the way we work, either in the home or on the go. We have had to evolve and pivot […]
B4 Workplace Wellbeing Special
In this episode of the B4 Podcast we’ll be discussing the increasingly important topic of Workplace Wellbeing with B4 Members, each offering their own unique perspective.
Sustainable life away from home
Today, people spend more and more of their time in environments away from home – in workplaces, hotels, schools, restaurants and airports. This means that the demand for solutions to make life away from home more sustainable increases.
What will your workplace look like when employees start to return...
People are no longer being asked to work from home now restrictions have been lifted in England.
The ‘5 Pillars’ Principle | The Real Meaning of Business
Many people still hold the belief that the purpose of business is profit above all else. For a small minority it never has been, although historically, for most it has.
The ‘5 Pillars’ Principle | The Real Meaning of Business
On this episode of The Real Meaning of Business we illustrate the ‘5 pillars’ principle and how this framework can help members understand the context of what they might already be doing, as well as the opportunities and benefits of evolving and improving their business models.
The Home Office of the Future: A Checklist
If you’re not doing it all of the time, you’ll be doing it some of the time and if you’re not doing it at all you’ll be the envy of many who don’t have a choice. ‘Working from home’ sounds great and it was always the ultimate working blag… “yeah, sure you are”.
What are the biggest threats to your business?
As the world limps on and businesses in the UK contend with the challenges of another period of lockdown, B4 members representing the Business Services, IT & Communications Hub marked Data Protection Day on Thursday 28th January 2021 by discussing what the major threats were to their businesses. With thanks to Darren Aston (Aston & James), Neill Lawson-Smith (CIS Ltd), Paul Ballinger (STL Communications), Salim Benadel (Storm Internet) and Kellie Peters (Databasix).
B4 Sustainable Business Day
It’s B4 Sustainability Day at B4. So we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so.
Workplace Wellbeing Day
It’s Workplace Wellbeing Day at B4. So we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so.
Clean the air we share
The rapid spread of Covid-19 has increased the urgency to protect ourselves and each other now more than ever. Aston & James provide some helpful information and solutions for office safety.
We should all strive to be more socially and environmentally conscious...
You may have heard quite a bit about Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). It’s all about creating a sustainable, environmentally conscious business; one which takes appropriate steps to reduce your carbon footprint, as well as tackling waste, encouraging employee development and caring about the community you live and work in.
B4 One: The Connection Between Wellbeing and Work Performance with Darren...
B4 One invited Darren Aston of Aston & James along to talk all things office and how it can motivate staff.
Personal protection equipment at the core Aston & James workplace supplies
Aston & James has always worked to understand the needs of businesses to stay relevant and to ensure that the range of products we deliver is appropriate for you in supporting your business.
How to protect staff & customers during social distancing
As we prepare for the next level of control over the prevention and spread of Covid-19, many businesses will start to re-open but with strict social distancing measures in place.
What does the future of workplace wellbeing look like? With Darren...
What does the future of workplace wellbeing look like… there are many factors here to consider. From a workspace point of view we all have a duty of care to ourselves and others, physically and mentally, at home and in the corporate office.
The Future Of Workplace Wellness – Take Our Quick Survey
As we all look to find a way forward, what does the future of workplace wellbeing look like?
Helping you keep your Distance with Aston and James: Social Distancing...
As much as we don’t like it and it feels very unnatural, it looks like social distancing will be sticking around for a while, at least the next twelve months.
Here to help you whilst at work and at home –...
In light of the uncertainty with the outbreak of COVID-19 (coronavirus), we want to reassure all our customers that we are taking all necessary steps to follow the World Health Organisation and local authorities’ guidelines. Our priority is the safety of our customers and team.
Working from Home? Our Top Tips for Employers
Did You Know? Did you know the number of people working at home reached an all-time high of 4.2 million in 2014? According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), this is about 13.9% of the population with approximately 74% of these home workers classified as managers, professionals or skilled trades.
Talent Spotter: How to attract and retain Millennials in your workplace
We’ve all said it ‘‘doesn’t that policeman/solicitor/doctor look young’’. A sure sign that we’re all getting older. And the fact is, that we are getting older, and for every year that passes in our working lives, another wave of young, fresh, technologically advanced employees enters the workforce, bringing with them fresh ideas, new ways of working, and high levels of expectations.
Be Super at Reducing your Carbon Footprint
It will come as no surprise that the effect that we as humans are having on our environment is becoming increasingly more important. Through our actions, we are exploiting our natural resources, destroying habitats and polluting our seas, which poses a huge threat for future generations.
A Company that Cares
Improving your Company’s CSR Start Small. Even if your business is small, you can still make changes to improve your CSR. Not every change needs to be drastic. Sometimes the simplest changes can have the biggest impact. Simple steps such as choosing to source from companies that have a CSR policy, buying recycled paper and sustainable products, sponsoring local events or putting volunteers forwards to support local causes can help improve the external perception of your business and your company’s CSR.
Wellbeing in the Workplace
If you are struggling to motivate your workforce, it’s probably time to make some changes
Facilities Management
If you are looking to save money and enhance the service levels you are currently receiving, then use the local choice, Aston and James.
U-Turn on Remote Working: Is Collaborative Working the New Norm?
One of the biggest trends we saw in 2018 was the drop off in remote working. Big tech companies have been recalling their remote working teams including most famously IBM last year, and the focus now is on collaborative working.
Workplace Wellbeing
If you are looking to save money and enhance the service levels you are currently receiving, then use the local choice, Aston and James.
Ergonomics
If you are looking to save money and enhance the service levels you are currently receiving, then use the local choice, Aston and James.
Help The Environment & Raise Money For A Local Charity
What do you do with your old cartridges? If you’re not currently involved in a collection or recycle scheme, why not consider Aston & James’s free ink and toner recycling service? You’ll help the environment and raise funds for local charity SeeSaw who offer vital grief support for young people and their families in Oxfordshire.
Love your workplace
Local business Aston and James are running a 3-month awareness campaign to educate local businesses on the importance of active movement in the workplace to encourage wellbeing.
Aston & James: Your Local Choice
If you are looking to save money and enhance the service levels you are currently receiving, then use the local choice, Aston and James.
Confident Shredding
Don’t lure identity theft towards your business… Your company stores information which could be a huge risk to your business in the wrong hands. According to the BBC Money Programme, the cost of identity theft in the UK is approximately £1.7bn and increasing at the phenomenal rate of 500% a year.