June 2025
Written by Jane Howkins, Head of Talent & Resourcing at Moto Hospitality and Emma James, Head of Employee Experience Solutions at WorkL.
Creating a workplace where colleagues feel valued, supported, and mentally healthy is no small feat especially in a fast-paced industry like retail and hospitality. Yet, Moto Hospitality, the UK’s largest motorway service operator, has achieved just that. Through a thoughtful approach to wellbeing, Moto has successfully embedded a culture of care across its 6,200-strong workforce, leading to happier teams, a stronger sense of belonging, and an overall boost in wellbeing.
At the heart of this success are Moto’s core values: Do the Right Thing, Us Before Me, Give Back, Think Customer, Revel in What We Do and Set the Bar High. These values guide the company’s commitment to creating a workplace where wellbeing is a priority, ensuring that every initiative aligns with a culture of care and responsibility.
A Thoughtful Approach to Wellbeing
Moto recognised that a thriving workforce requires more than just competitive pay and benefits. The company set out to create a wellbeing strategy that covered mental, physical, social and financial health. This approach has not only improved colleague wellbeing but also contributed to a more positive and engaged workplace, as seen through improved colleague survey results, increased Glassdoor scores, and reduced labour turnover.
To support colleague listening and continuous improvement, Moto uses WorkL for Business to gather feedback through colleague surveys. This ensures that wellbeing initiatives are shaped by real experiences and evolving needs. As a testament to its commitment to creating a positive workplace, Moto was recognised as one of the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024.
Key Steps in Moto’s Wellbeing Journey
1. Partnering with Mind and SAMH and Raising over £1M for Mental Health
Moto made a significant commitment to mental health by partnering with Mind and SAMH, both leading mental health charities. Over recent years, the company has raised and donated over £1 million to support mental health initiatives. This partnership has also provided Moto colleagues with expert advice and guidance, reinforcing the company’s dedication to mental wellbeing.
2. Launching a Network of 600 Wellbeing Champions
To make sure support is available at every level, Moto trained and launched approximately 600 Wellbeing Champions across its business. These colleagues act as peer supporters, offering a listening ear and encouragement to those who may be facing personal or work-related challenges. By having champions throughout the organisation, Moto has created a culture where people feel comfortable opening up and seeking help.
3. 24/7 Access to an Online Wellbeing Hub
Through its colleague app, LOOP, Moto created an Online Wellbeing Hub that provides round-the-clock access to wellbeing resources. Covering social, physical, mental, and financial wellbeing, the hub ensures that colleagues always have the information and support they need, no matter where they are or what shift they’re working.
4. Encouraging Open Conversations Through ‘Let’s Talk About the Hard Stuff’ Webinars
Breaking down the stigma around mental health starts with honest conversations. Moto introduced a series of internal webinars titled ‘Let’s Talk About the Hard Stuff,’ where colleagues share their personal experiences on topics that can be difficult to discuss—such as baby loss, suicide, and eating disorders. By encouraging open dialogue, Moto has helped to create a workplace where people feel heard and supported.
5. Improving Workplace Environments for Colleague Wellbeing
Recognising the importance of a comfortable and welcoming space, Moto has been updating colleague areas across its sites. These refreshed spaces provide a vibrant and inviting place where colleagues can take a break, enjoy a meal, and connect with each other. These improvements help to foster a sense of belonging and ensure that everyone has a space where they can relax during their shifts.
The Impact: A Happier, Healthier, and More Engaged Team
Moto’s efforts have had a real impact. Colleague happiness and wellbeing scores from colleague surveys have gone up, Glassdoor ratings have improved, and time to hire for new recruits has reduced. This all points to a more engaged and fulfilled workforce.
Moto Hospitality’s journey shows that prioritising wellbeing isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s also a great way to build a stronger, more connected team. By embedding wellbeing into its culture, listening to colleagues through WorkL for Business, and staying true to its values, Moto has set a fantastic example for others in retail and hospitality. Recognition as one of the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024 further cements its position as a leader in workplace wellbeing.
This article was originally featured in the May 2025 edition of WorkLife Business News which you can view here!
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