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  • Luxury Manchester Waters Completion For HE Simm Group

    The HE Simm Group has successfully completed works on the third block of luxury apartments at X1 Manchester Waters. ‘Block C’ of the Pomona Island development has opened with the state-of-the-art facility offering a selection of stunning Studio, 1, 2 and 3-bedroom apartments across 14 floors. Built by Vermont, for client X1, Manchester Waters will eventually bring together 742 apartments across five residential blocks. The company has now successfully delivered the MEP installation at the first three – a total of 406 apartments. The apartments are part of the Pomona Strand Masterplan, located between the successful Manchester residential neighbourhood of Castlefield and the prestigious Salford Quays development at MediaCityUK. HE Simm Engineering provided Design & Build MEP, with sister company HESIS providing Fire & Security installation. The team became involved from concept, working with a wider design team – including the architect and structural engineers – to ensure a successful outcome across all three buildings. Offering a modern living experience with the added luxury of selected apartments featuring balconies with picturesque waterside views, the development is situated on the thriving Pomona Island, boasting excellent connectivity to the city centre via the tram. HE Simm Group has enjoyed a successful relationship with Vermont and X1 for more than a decade, with this project representing one of the last remaining large scale regeneration opportunities located close to the heart of Manchester. Lee Smith, Operations Manager for the project, said: “With the construction landscape changing, this was at times a challenging project for all involved. That said, it’s testament to the team who collaboratively embraced the challenge and continued in the same vein as the previous two blocks, delivering an excellent, high-quality scheme. “We are both proud and delighted to have completed these works, with the on-site team further enhancing the reputation of HE Simm’s reputation for high quality.” The apartments come fully furnished to a high specification, ensuring that every aspect of living space provides sophistication and functionality, while all white goods are also included. Since being founded in 1948, HE Simm Group has become recognised as a leading player in the design, delivery and installation of MEP, Fire & Security, Maintenance and Offsite Manufacturing capabilities across numerous sectors, for many long-term clients.

  • Croxsons Appoints New Business Development Manager

    Leading glass packaging company, Croxsons, has announced the appointment of Lindsay Martin as the latest addition to its business development team. Lindsay brings an abundance of knowledge and expertise to her new role. Having initially worked in the hospitality sector where she studied for her WSET 1 and 2 programmes (Wine & Spirit Education Trust), she has since spent the last 5 years in the packaging industry, focusing on food and drink categories and a variety of primary packaging types. In her new role at Croxsons, Lindsay aims to foster strong, personal relationships with clients, assisting them across all aspects of their closures needs, from standard options to fully bespoke closures. She will also scrutinise the entire supply chain process to ensure Croxsons delivers efficient, cost-effective and high-quality solutions, covering logistics, warehousing, manufacturing and product development. Lindsay's choice to join Croxsons was influenced by the company's family-oriented culture and its strong commitment to sustainability. She looks forward to contributing to brand development for clients through tailor-made solutions and being an integral part of Croxsons' continued success. Commenting on her appointment, Tim Croxson, Croxsons' CEO, said: "We are thrilled to welcome Lindsay into the Croxsons family." "She comes to us with a wealth of packaging industry experience and is very relationship-led, which fits our team perfectly. We are confident that her contributions will be pivotal in creating added value for our customers.” For more information about Croxsons, visit www.croxsons.com

  • The British Young Horse Championships Have Moved To Hickstead

    British Showjumping has selected the All England Jumping Course at Hickstead as the new host venue for the British Young Horse Championships (9-12 August 2024). The show, which boasts a total prize fund of nearly £80,000, will take place on the all-weather arenas and will host qualifiers and finals for four-, five, six- and seven-year-old horses. There will be additional prizes, sponsored by British Showjumping, for the breeders of the top five British Bred horses in their respective Finals, as well as generous bonuses for horses jumping clear throughout the week. The Finals will also act as the UK qualifier for the prestigious World Breeding Championship for Young Horses in Lanaken in Belgium, which takes place each year in September. Hickstead Director Lizzie Bunn said: “We are really pleased to be the new hosts of this prestigious championships, which will be a showcase for the very best of young showjumping horses in this country. While there are a few other Open classes at this show, ranging from 1.10m up to a 1.40m Grand Prix, the focus is very much on our young horse classes and celebrating the up-and-coming equine talent in this country.” Riders in the Prestige Italia Six Year Old Championship will compete for the Big Star Trophy, awarded in honour of Nick Skelton’s 2016 Olympic gold medal winner. Any horse jumping a treble clear in one of the four Big Star qualifiers held between May and July will automatically be eligible for the £1,000 Big Star Bonus, which will be awarded in the Final. Iain Graham, Chief Executive of British Showjumping said: “The Prestige Italia Six Year Old Championship is one of the most important championships in this country for young equine stars. We are delighted that the final will form part of the British Young Horse Championships in its new home at Hickstead.” William Funnell, who has won countless Hickstead titles over the years, has agreed to sponsor the Billy Stud Auction Five Year Old Championship as well as putting forward two special £5,000 prizes for the highest-placed horse bought in a Billy Stud Auction in both the four- and five-year-old championships. “As a breeder, shows like the Hickstead Young Horse Championships are invaluable for producing young horses and highlighting their abilities. Having chaired the committee that established and spearheaded these Championships 15 years ago, I think the move to Hickstead is an excellent choice.” Al Shira’aa, already a major sponsor of Hickstead including the iconic Al Shira’aa Derby, has taken naming rights for the Four-Year-Old final. “We are happy to support the Four Year Old Championship at the first ever young horse championships at Hickstead. We at Al Shira'aa thoroughly enjoy the production of young horses and look forward to being a part of this event,” said Alicia MacDonald, Director of Al Shira’aa Farms. Hickstead-based Breen Equestrian has also taken on sponsorship of one of the young horse finals. Chloe Breen says: "Breeding future superstars has always been the goal of Breen Equestrian, and as such we are delighted to sponsor the British Seven Year Old Championship at its new home, here at Hickstead.” Spectator admission and parking is free of charge for the duration of the show, with competitor entries opening in July. For more information, visit here. Photo Credit: Elli Birch/Boots and Hooves Photography

  • The Importance Of Understanding Financial Information

    What do you need to know before deciding whether to join the family business? We know that family businesses are great at taking a longer-term outlook and that extends to helping their potential successors to learn about all the various aspects of the business operations. But what we’ve also heard from those in the Next Generation considering whether to join the board is that understanding how to read and interpret the financial information may not receive quite the same level of attention. We’ve heard of newly appointed directors being asked to vote on crucial and potentially big number decisions but without having had much help understanding what the financial reports or projections actually mean. For example, understanding the Balance Sheet, Profit or Loss Statement, and Cashflow Statement, and what a ‘good’ set of financial statements looks like. And yet this is vital in order to make relevant and informed decisions, to understand the competition, as well as ensuring that your family business remains financially ‘healthy’. In the words of one of the FBU champion’s at last year’s conference, “Keep close to the numbers.” Deciding whether to take over the family firm involves careful consideration of various financial indicators to assess the company's current health and future potential. In additional to the annual financial reports, these are some of the key financial indicators to bear in mind: Profitability: how much money is the business making? Gross Profit Margin: Indicates the percentage of revenue that exceeds the cost of goods sold. A higher margin suggests better efficiency in production or service delivery. Net Profit Margin: Measures the percentage of revenue that remains as profit after all expenses, including taxes and interest. It reflects the company's overall profitability. Liquidity & cash flow: how much cash is the business generating? Is there a cash flow problem? Current Ratio: Compares current assets to current liabilities, indicating the company's ability to cover short-term obligations. The higher the ratio, the better! Working Capital: Current assets less current liabilities. This indicates the business’s available funds to finance day-to-day operations. Operating Cash Flow: Evaluates the cash generated from the company's core business operations. Positive operating cash flow indicates the company can both sustain and grow its day-to-day operations. Leverage Ratios: how much debt is there is in the business? How much financial flexibility is there? Debt-to-Equity Ratio: Measures the proportion of debt financing relative to equity. High debt levels can indicate financial risk, while low levels may suggest stability but could also mean missed growth opportunities. This is often a condition of any bank loan borrowing. Interest Coverage Ratio: Indicates the company's ability to cover interest expenses with operating income. A higher ratio indicates a better capacity to meet debt obligations as they fall due. Growth Indicators: how quickly is the business growing? Earnings Per Share (EPS) Growth: Reflects the growth in earnings available to shareholders over time. Positive EPS growth suggests improving profitability. Market Valuation: how much is the business worth? Price-to-Earnings (P/E) Ratio: Indicates the company's valuation relative to its earnings. A lower ratio may suggest undervaluation, while a higher ratio could indicate strong performance but also overvaluation. This is often used as a relative value comparison tool. What about EBITDA? Definition - EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortisation) is a widely used financial metric that applies to both public and private companies, including family-owned businesses. EBITDA is a measure of the business’s ability to generate income, often used as a proxy for operating cash flow and is particularly relevant in the context of assessing a company's profitability and financial performance. EBITDA can be valuable when evaluating the operational efficiency and profitability of a business because it focuses solely on the core operating performance, excluding the effects of different financing decisions, accounting methods, and tax environments. Here's how EBITDA can be relevant when considering taking over a family business: Profitability Assessment: EBITDA provides a clear picture of a company's ability to generate profits from its core operations before considering the impact of interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation. This metric allows for a more straightforward comparison of profitability against direct competitors. Cash Flow Measurement: EBITDA represents cash flow generated by ongoing operations, and so is useful for assessing a company's ability to generate cash to cover operating expenses, capital expenditures, and debt obligations. Valuation: EBITDA is often used as a basis for valuation multiples in mergers and acquisitions. It can help potential buyers or investors determine the company's worth by applying a multiple to its EBITDA. Financial Health: EBITDA can indicate the financial health and stability of a company, as higher EBITDA margins suggest stronger operational efficiency and profitability, particularly if there is growth year-on-year. While EBITDA can be a useful metric, it also has its limitations. EBITDA does not reflect capital expenditures necessary to maintain or grow the business, nor does it permit consideration of changes in working capital requirements. Therefore, it's important that EBITDA is considered along with those other financial indicators held to be key for that particular family business. Spending time with the business’ accountants and other trusted advisers as well as conducting thorough due diligence, where necessary, are also essential steps in the decision-making process. Lastly, it is imperative to note that assessing financial indicators alongside identifying qualitative factors such as industry trends, competitive landscape, potential strengths/weaknesses, and the company's strategic objectives will provide a more comprehensive understanding how the family business is performing and will better inform all decisions. Furthermore, understanding and planning for the likely impact of the individual family business dynamic, those unique personal relationships, and so potential points of friction can help the Next Generation successfully navigate the future, and help align both the business’ strategy and acknowledges the personal ambitions of the incoming individual(s). About the Author - Charlotte Tong is a Partner and member of the family business team at Goodman Jones. If you are a potential successor and would like to get a better understanding of your management accounts, annual financial statements, audit obligations, financial budgets or cashflow projections please email familybusiness@goodmanjones.com

  • Good News For JCB Academy As Latest Ofsted Report Issued

    One of the UK's most over-subscribed school, The JCB Academy, has achieved top-class results in its latest Ofsted report. The Academy achieved a ‘Good’ rating from Government inspectors who visited the Rocester-based school at the end of January, citing its excellent connections with industry and the outstanding employability skills of learners. The report maintains the JCB Academy’s unbroken record of ‘Good’ ratings from Ofsted since its first in May 2014. The specialist engineering and business Academy, which is sponsored by digger giant JCB, was praised for its teaching in close collaboration with prestigious employer partners such as JCB, Toyota, Bosch Rexroth, Rolls-Royce, National Grid, and Harper Adams University. Chair of Governors and JCB Group HR Director, Max Jeffery, said: "The educational experience at The JCB Academy is second to none and provides an outstanding platform for students to not only excel academically but also prepare for their future careers. This report reflects the Academy's unwavering commitment to providing a nurturing and supportive learning environment, alongside a rigorous and ambitious curriculum tailored to meet the needs of all learners.” The JCB Academy Principal Jim Bailey, said: "We are immensely proud of our learners, staff, and the strong support from our industry partners." "This report is a testament to our collective hard work and dedication to not only meet, but exceed, the educational standards expected of us." Hydraulic Training Manager at Bosch Rexroth Limited, Jim Malin added: “The Ofsted rating is no surprise, and a well-deserved recognition of overall excellence." "Learners' readiness for the industry is a testament to the Academy's high standard of teaching and the employability skills instilled in learners.” Based in a historic 18th Century former cotton mill, the Academy is a non-selective school for 13-to-18-year-olds within an 18-mile radius – with its 810 students travelling from the Staffordshire Moorlands, Burton, Derby, Ashbourne, Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford and Stone. For Years 9 and 10, 645 applicants applied for the 210 places on offer, indicating the Academy will again become the most over-subscribed educational establishment in both Staffordshire and Derbyshire. For more information on The JCB Academy visit www.jcbacademy.com .

  • GDP Growth Must Not Turn Into Another False Dawn

    With the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics showing that GDP rose by 0.2% in January 2024 compared with the previous month, Tina McKenzie, Policy Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), shares her thoughts but raises concerns as this needs to be the platform for further growth in order the small businesses, many of them family owned, do not see this limited growth turned into another false dawn. As Tina explains, “An increase in GDP is an encouraging start to the year, and one small firms will be relieved to see, as it raises hopes that we may be pulling out of the shallow recession declared following low levels of negative growth through the second half of 2023." “It’s too early to celebrate with any great level of vigour, however, as small firms are certainly finding the going tough at the moment." “The recent Budget contained some help for small firms, notably the raising of the VAT threshold from £85,000 to £90,000 and the cut to National Insurance contributions, but small firms hoped for more help with day-to-day costs." “This isn’t just about existing businesses starting to turn to growth in 2024; this is about creating the conditions for people to set up in business for the very first time, the next generation of start-ups who will make up the ground we lost during the Covid years when the UK small business population contracted by 500,000, losing one in 10 of them." “Our Small Business Index research has found particular cause for concern among hospitality and retail firms, which are trailing far behind the overall average in terms of confidence levels. Indeed, one in eight firms in the hospitality sector expect to close entirely in the next 12 months, nearly four times the rate for all businesses, which should be a huge wake-up call to the Government about the dangers facing many thousands of small businesses." “Small businesses contribute an enormous amount to the economy, and a sustainable recovery will be built on their success and growth. Today’s news must be built on if it is not to turn into another false dawn for small firms.”

  • Businesses Planning AI Adoption In Next Two Years

    More than half of businesses plan to adopt AI within the next two years according to the latest research findings with leading cybersecurity expert claiming that adoption of AI in businesses is both exciting and concerning. Key Findings: 57% of organisations plan to implement AI solutions. Two-thirds (66%) of organizations said that their total IT budget will be increasing in 2024. Purchase of cybersecurity solutions/services/apps (61%), were the most popular IT investments among businesses in 2023. Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly transitioned from a science fictional concept to a technology that is reshaping businesses worldwide. Organizations are embracing AI because of its potential to drive efficiency and enhance decision-making processes. According to the 2024 State of IT survey by Spiceworks, 57% of organizations have concrete plans to implement AI solutions in the near future. Notably, a quarter of these businesses are already integrating AI into their operations, while 32% are preparing to do so within the next two years. “The adoption of AI technology across industries is both exciting and concerning from a cybersecurity perspective. While AI can revolutionise business operations and drive efficiency, it also introduces new attack vectors and risks that organizations must be prepared to address,” says Carlos Salas, a cybersecurity expert at NordLayer. Investment In Cybersecurity The 2024 State of IT survey also asked businesses about their IT budget. Two-thirds (66%) of organizations said that their total IT budget will be increasing in 2024 compared to last year. Interestingly, 4% decided to lower their IT budgets since the previous year, and 30% of businesses plan no change. For more than half (52%) of organizations, leading reasons for IT budget increase are a need to upgrade outdated IT infrastructure and increased priority on IT projects. Another major factor for 48% of businesses is increased security concerns. NordLayer’s research from 2023 also looked into how businesses spend their IT and cybersecurity budget. Purchase of cybersecurity solutions/services/apps (61%) as well as cybersecurity training for employees (56%) were the most popular IT investments among businesses last year. The research showed that a third of companies (35%) prepared to allocate up to a quarter of their organisational budget for IT needs last year. Another 32% of respondents planned to invest up to half of their budget. Only 3% of businesses said they didn’t plan to invest in cybersecurity in 2023, out of which the majority are small companies. "The fact that two-thirds of organisations are boosting their IT budgets for 2024 is an encouraging sign that businesses recognise the role technology plays in driving innovation and competitiveness." As AI adoption accelerates, allocating adequate resources for cybersecurity will be crucial to safeguarding these cutting-edge technologies and the sensitive data they process,” says Salas.

  • New Business Development Manager At Central Foods

    Frozen food distributor Central Foods has appointed a new business development manager. Brad Turner has extensive experience of the UK food service market and has been appointed to support Central Foods as the company continues to grow and expand. Originally from South Africa, Brad has worked in the UK food service sector for more than 20 years, with positions at Allied Bakeries, Costa Express, Aryzta Food Solutions and Handmade Speciality & Propermaid Cakes in that time, to name a few manufacturers. MD for Central Foods, Gordon Lauder, said: “Brad has worked with a number of our key frozen food wholesaler customers already, as well as building relationships with large end-user catering groups so will be hitting the road running as he joins us here at Central Foods." “We are very pleased to have him on board as we continue to grow, offering our foodservice customers a unique one-stop option for buying quality frozen food." “Brad’s experience and enthusiasm makes him perfectly placed to support our vision as we move forward, and we are delighted that he has joined our team.” Central Foods, based at Collingtree near Northampton, is one of the UK’s leading frozen food distributors, and was recently listed as number ten in the ‘ones to watch’ fastest growing category for Northamptonshire businesses. It was also featured in the top 50 businesses in the county in a list compiled by accountants Grant Thornton and law firm Howes Percival. Brad said: “I am excited to have joined Central Foods as business development manager. The company is well known in the frozen food service sector, and I am looking forward to supporting the business as it continues its journey, supplying a wide range of top quality frozen food to food service professionals across the UK.” Central Foods currently sells to over 180 independent wholesalers, as well as larger national and regional wholesalers. Central Foods is proud to be a catering partner across the whole food service sector, supplying to hotels, restaurants, bars, universities, schools, pubs, care homes, garden centres, leisure outlets and more. For more information, visit www.centralfoods.co.uk.

  • HMG & Aston Martin Back On The World Circuit

    Manchester based HMG Paints’ range of coatings will once again be taking to the track on race circuits across the world. But this year it’ll be on the spectacular new Aston Martin Vantage GT3. As Technical Partners with Prodrive, one of the world’s largest and most successful motorsport and technology businesses, HMG will provide its paints for a number of cars throughout the upcoming season. Key Points: The Aston Martin Vantage GT3 was unveiled to the world alongside new Vantage road car The Vantage GT3 will contest the world’s greatest GT series, including the FIA World Endurance Championship, IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and the Fanatec GT World Challenge The Vantage LMGT3 FIA World Endurance Championship contender follows the ultra-successful Vantage GTE, which scored a remarkable 52 class wins and 11 world titles between 2012 and 2023 HMG Paints have worked with Prodrive for over 10 years to supply paints and coatings for a number of race cars with Prodrive being a world leading motorsport and advanced technology business. The Vantage GT3 is a comprehensive evolution of the ultra-successful and recently retired Vantage GTE and GT3 cars, which made their debuts in 2018. Sharing their mechanical architecture – and that of the new Vantage road car – the Vantage GT3 is built around Aston Martin’s proven bonded aluminium chassis structure and powered by its fearsome twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine. Boasting a dramatic, all-new nose-to-tail aerodynamic package, comprehensively revised suspension and state-of-the-art electronics, together they endow this latest-generation Aston Martin GT racer with world-beating potential. Built to comply with all FIA GT3 class regulations, including the new-for-2024 LMGT3 category, the new Vantage GT3 is a truly global competitor. The Vantage GT3 will be fighting for victory at the Nürburgring 24 Hours, Spa-Francorchamps 24 Hours and - most iconic of all – the 24 Hours of Le Mans later this year. The Vantage GT3 will also see action in a host of national GT championships around the globe – including the Japanese Super GT Championship and British GT Championship – underlining Aston Martin’s leading role in world motorsport. HMG’s partnership with Prodrive dates back to 2013, and has seen HMG’s range of paints and coatings appear on a number of iconic cars built and run by Prodrive in several global racing series. As Paddy Dyson, Marketing Manager at HMG Paints concludes, "This exciting collaboration continues a successful partnership which has included wins at Le Mans 24 Hours, and will see us work alongside Prodrive for a number of teams who will be utilising the new Vantage GT3." "HMG manufactures a range of paints and coatings which are used in industries across the globe including Industrial, Commercial Vehicle, Architectural and Specialist Automotive amongst others, and this is one partnership we’re extremely proud of which will take our paints to some of the most iconic race tracks around the world."

  • Study Reveals Poor Sleep Costs UK £40 Billion Annually!

    Globally renowned University College London has revealed shocking statistics detailing the economic impact poor sleep is having on businesses across the UK. According to the report, led by Dr Gillian Weston, productivity losses are estimated at over £40 billion annually – a staggering amount in an already challenging economic climate. With nearly half of the UK population getting less than the recommended seven hours of sleep per night, sleep deprivation is proving detrimental to the health of both the people and the economy. Productivity and employee wellbeing underpin thriving business, but the recent report suggests that this cornerstone of economic growth is being compromised as a result of millions of individuals suffering from insufficient sleep. In addition to a myriad of health-related problems - including mental health issues, links to chronic diseases such as diabetes, and work-related injuries - poor sleep can also lead to reduced concentration levels, impaired decision-making, and a general decline in cognitive abilities. Left unaddressed, this not only leads to increased levels of absenteeism for employers and a diminished workforce, but it further strains the already stretched healthcare system. The recently confirmed recession and last week’s Spring budget reinforce the importance of a strong economy and the need for a productive workforce. As Jeremy Hunt places high importance on global growth, better sleep could be a vital catalyst for nurturing economic development. £40 billion in productivity lost to sleep is cause for concern not only to business owners, but also to the public. Between October and December 2023, the economy shrank by 0.3% - generally indicating that people are earning less, spending less, and that the nation isn’t progressing financially. Better sleep and higher rate of productivity could not only negate the staggering £40 billion loss but would actually lead to a 1.86% increase in the GDP – an increase not seen in three years that could facilitate game-changing spend across a number of public services. As the country looks to tackle the concerning statistics and boost economic growth, research indicates that better nutrition could be the key to improved sleep outcomes. Studies suggest that the superfood Ashwagandha can help to improve overall sleep quality, by reducing feelings of stress and anxiety; while Tart Cherry can increase levels of Melatonin, a sleep hormone which is critical in regulating an individual’s sleep-wake cycles, bringing on sleep faster and for longer. When it comes to increasing REM sleep – crucial for memory and learning – studies suggest that 5-HTP can be effective by helping to promote healthy sleep patterns. However, these nutrients are not as easily obtained through a healthy diet alone, and many experts recommend supplementing with multivitamins and functional foods. Nourished, an innovative 3D-printed nutrient gummy brand, creates a range of bite-sized Stacks, each with seven unique layers of high impact active ingredients, designed to aid a variety of health goals. The Sleep Tight Stack helps promote a restful night with double layers of Tart Cherry and Ashwagandha, as well as a layer of 5-HTP. Melissa Snover, CEO and Founder of Nourished, and registered nutritionist, comments: “Sleep is a key pillar of both physical and mental health, and the consequences of poor sleep extend beyond just individual wellbeing, as evidenced by the UCL study." "Proper nutrition, involving high impact nutrients, vitamins, and superfoods, can play a vital role in mitigating the adverse effects of poor sleep – especially when we take the time to understand our bodies and make informed, personalised decisions." “Targeted supplementation can address nutritional deficiencies that may hinder the body’s natural ability to promote restfulness, highlighting the importance of key nutrients such as Ashwagandha, 5-HTP and Tart Cherry, and how essential they can be to achieving restorative and quality sleep. As we prioritise quality sleep and nutritional well-being, we pave the way for a more resilient and thriving economy.”

  • Croots Farm Shop Celebrates British Pie Award Accolade

    Popular Derbyshire farm shop Croots is celebrating winning an award at the annual British Pie Awards. The new Croots Steak, Mushroom and Cracked Black Peppercorn Pie took the reserve champion award in the beef and vegetable pie category. Croots Farm Shop is no stranger to winning awards for its extensive range of home-made pies which it sells in its shop, based in Wirksworth Road, Duffield. This latest accolade was awarded during British Pie Week at the annual British Pie Awards, held in Melton Mowbray – the rural capital of food – and hosted by the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie Association. Kay Croot, who runs the farm shop, said: “We were thrilled to win the reserve champion award for our new Croots Steak, Mushroom and Cracked Black Peppercorn Pie at the British Pie Awards, narrowly being pipped at the post by the Champion pie." “The British Pie Awards are the crème de la crème of pie awards and we’ve previously won gold medals for our Steak and Ale Pie and Croots Mince Pies there. The Croots Steak, Mushroom and Cracked Black Peppercorn Pie is a relatively new pie but it’s fast becoming a big favourite with our customers, and we’re delighted that it hit the spot with the award judges too.” The Croots Steak, Mushroom and Cracked Black Peppercorn Pie is freshly made on the premises at Croots by the bakery team, using top quality locally reared meat. The British Pie Awards are a national celebration of British pies in all their varieties and they have been running since 2009. Croots opened in 2008 and sells a range of home-made and locally produced food and drink, as well as items from further afield. Based at Farnah House Farm, it is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm, and on Sundays from 10am to 4pm, with the café open from 9am to 4pm Monday to Saturday and on Sunday between 10am and 3pm. For more information, visit www.croots.co.uk

  • Barker And Stonehouse Introduces Hydrogen Delivery Vehicle Prototype

    Furniture retailer Barker and Stonehouse is trialing a prototype hydrogen delivery vehicle as it continues its commitment to reducing its emissions above and beyond its own carbon footprint. Barker and Stonehouse is proud to be a Carbon Neutral Plus company, a status it achieved in April 2021, making the business the first UK furniture retailer to receive this certification. The business’ new hydrogen delivery vehicle emits zero emissions and is highly energy efficient, marking the retailer’s first step in introducing a more environmentally friendly delivery service. The vehicle has been two years in the making, with the prototype currently based at Barker and Stonehouse’s Lincoln test centre where delivery drivers will trial its use for 12 months to assess whether its usage is effective whilst delivering environmental gains. The trial will start in July (2024). If found to be viable, the company’s ambition would be to roll these vehicles out on a national basis, gradually replacing its current delivery fleet. In line with its sustainability strategy, the company is exploring a range of options for its delivery vehicles as part of an ongoing process. The strategy also includes initiatives to optimise delivery routes for efficiency, invest in renewable energy sources for its stores and warehouses and utilise sustainable packaging materials where possible. By implementing these initiatives, Barker and Stonehouse is setting a new standard for sustainable deliveries across the UK. James Barker, Managing Director of Barker and Stonehouse says: “Further exploring the use of hydrogen-powered vehicles forms part of our commitment to environmental responsibility and aligns with our goal of minimising our impact on the planet. We are proud to be pioneers in exploring the possibilities of this exciting potential shift.” www.barkerandstonehouse.co.uk

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