Ripe named amongst The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026

Ripe has been named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work in 2026 - the second time the Digital MGA has featured on the prestigious list, which is determined by employee feedback. 

The ranking independently surveys employees across six categories: reward and recognition, instilling pride, information sharing, empowerment, wellbeing, and job satisfaction. Being named reflects what colleagues themselves say about working at Ripe. 

Team members reported feeling appreciated and supported through different life stages. Ripe's values - Roll Our Sleeves Up, Stay Curious, and Plan Smart, Move Fast - highlight a culture that encourages ownership, curiosity and smart decision-making at every level. 

A major milestone this year was the move to a new office at One Stockport Exchange, Stockport. Employees were involved in the decision-making process throughout, ensuring the space reflected how they want to work - and the result has been a significant improvement in the working environment for the whole team. 

That people-first approach extends to every aspect of working life at Ripe. Employee feedback directly shapes the benefits on offer, which this year has included enhanced support for colleagues going through fertility treatment or adoption, the launch of a dedicated Menopause Support Network, and the expansion of the Employee Assistance Programme to cover immediate family members. Modern Workplace Apprenticeships have also been introduced to strengthen career progression 

Since private equity investment, Ripe has grown significantly and on top of its organic growth has made three major acquisitions - welcoming new colleagues through a carefully considered integration and onboarding process that has kept engagement high throughout. The business now employs 137 people, and bottling the best parts of its culture as it scales remains a clear priority for the leadership team. 

Alan Thomas, Ripe CEO, commented: “The Sunday Times list is based on feedback from the Ripe team, and that's why it means so much. What makes me proud is everything that sits behind an award like this: a team of people who turn up for one another and know how to build something a bit special. That culture is what drives everything for our customers and ultimately the success of our organisation. We’re thrilled to have been recognised in this way once again.” 

Zoe Thomas, editor of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work, said: 

“In an evolving world of work Britain’s leading employers are helping staff forge careers that count today – and in the future. In turn, the Best Places to Work have the resilience to weather the current economic storms baked in, thanks to engaged workers who go above and beyond with a smile. Our winning employers span sizes and sectors, from tiny charities and specialist law firms to multinational fast-food chains and utility giants, and everywhere in between. The thread joining them is the belief that a happy workforce is a stepping stone to better performance and faster growth.” 

The Sunday Times Best Places to Work is one of the UK's most respected workplace rankings, with inclusion determined by independent employee survey rather than employer nomination.