🎙️ In this episode, we hear from Darren Aston, who runs Aston and James, a family business that has spent 35 years helping organisations make their workplaces work.
Darren talks to Ned Wells and Ruth Davis about how the company has evolved since Covid, shifting from a traditional office supplies provider into a more consultative, flexible partner for clients.
♻️ We dive into what responsible business looks like in a product-heavy world: eco delivery days, reducing van journeys, thoughtful product sourcing, and schemes for reuse and recycling. Darren also explains how Aston and James encourages customers to buy smarter, recycle more, and think carefully about waste.
⚖️ There’s honesty about the challenges too: working with suppliers, balancing cost and sustainability, and keeping momentum in a smaller business. Aston and James’ ‘Green Council’ helps turn intentions into action across the company, from recycled tape to closed-loop furniture schemes.
✅ A practical episode about supply chains, family values, and making steady, meaningful progress.
Ruth Davis
As the Strategic Engagement & Impact Lead and Co-Founder at Oxygen, I specialise in building strong partnerships, leading high-impact projects, and guiding organisations on how to embed sustainability into their communications and strategy. With a Master’s degree in Sustainable Development and a background in strategic and digital communications, I’ve worked with a wide range of organisations – from climate-focused startups and B Corps to membership bodies and community development charities. My experience spans brand development, messaging and strategy, and website projects, all with a clear focus on purpose and impact. At the core of my approach is collaboration. I’m passionate about aligning big ideas with practical action, helping teams turn values into value and purpose into progress.
