Charles Clinkard is an established name in the retail industry, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. And, like any successful business, it’s learnt to be adaptable. Here, Rachel Clinkard from Charles Clinkard shares her insight into business agility. In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the ability to adapt and thrive in the face of constant change has become crucial for successful enterprises. Whether it's embracing technological advancements, acknowledgin

In the heart of Bolton, amidst its bustling streets and vibrant culture, lies a culinary gem cherished by locals and visitors alike: Carrs Pasties. Since 1938, Carrs has been synonymous with the epitome of traditional British comfort food, serving up delectable pasties that tantalise taste buds and warm the soul. Paul Andrews spoke to Joe Carr to find out more. Carrs Pasties has stood the test of time, rooted in a rich heritage dating back to when Grandma Nell made the first

EGM Golf is an independent British company who design, manufacture, and supply a complete package of golf driving range equipment. The desire to constantly evolve products is driven from the top by company owner Adrian Yallop who started the business in 1982. Paul Andrews spoke to the second generation, Harvey Yallop, to find out more. As Harvey explains, “It all started back in the 1980’s by my father. His career began in the repair and sales of motorcycles and cars before b

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 a

Michael Atkinson discovers Scotland's last remaining medallist - nearly 200 years of history making medals for some of the world's greatest institutions. In the magnificent St Giles' Cathedral on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh is the Thistle Chapel, chapel of the Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle, the greatest order of chivalry in Scotland. Each member of the Order is allotted a stall in the chapel and when a new knight is appointed by the Monarch, a stall plate,

When we envision a family business, the images of unity, prosperity, and success often come to mind. However, the untold realities paint a different picture—one that includes tough conversations, disagreements, and the potential for disharmony. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of navigating tough conversations within family businesses, providing a guide for family members to master difficult dialogues and foster harmony. Tough Conversations: The Expected Reality

Should you join the growing number of family businesses that proudly promote the fact that they are (and have been) family owned – for decades, some even for centuries? Or do you prioritize your family’s privacy over leveraging your family’s involvement in the business for the benefit of a distinct family business brand? Drawing on evidence from research and practice, this article provides some insights as to the circumstances under which it makes sense to brand a company as

In branding, storytelling has emerged as a potent tool; for family businesses, it's not just an option but a necessity. In today's competitive landscape, where consumers seek authentic connections with brands, the narrative behind a business holds unparalleled significance. With their rich history, values, and personal touch, family businesses are uniquely poised to leverage the power of storytelling to solidify their brand presence and foster lasting relationships with custo

Around the world family-owned enterprises play a pivotal role. Today, family businesses are confronted with a multifaceted agenda that reflects the dynamic nature of the modern world. Two prominent themes that resonate across continents are sustainability and digital transformation. Both topics feature highly on the family business agenda worldwide, emphasising the delicate balance between tradition and innovation. One crucial aspect on the family business agenda is the chall

In the intricate tapestry of family businesses, the threads of tradition, resilience, and shared history are often interwoven through the art of storytelling. Beyond the balance sheets and profit margins, the narratives passed down from generation to generation serve as the lifeblood that sustains these enterprises, providing a unique value that extends far beyond mere financial gains. At the heart of family businesses, stories act as bridges between the past, present, and fu

With the right strategy, PR can be a powerful catalyst that supercharges your family business’ marketing efforts. After all, every family business has a unique story. Whether it's the founding story, generational transitions, or overcoming challenges, these stories create an emotional connection with your customers and your wider target market. What’s more, PR is a versatile tool that can be tailored to businesses of all sizes, enabling smaller firms to punch above their weig

In recent years, there has been a significant societal shift in the traditional family structure, giving rise to the increasing prevalence of blended families. Blended families, also known as stepfamilies, are formed when partners with children from previous relationships come together to create a new household. This evolving family dynamic reflects the changing landscape of modern relationships, challenging conventional notions of what constitutes a "typical" family. One dri

The increasing opportunity for women in family businesses marks a significant shift in traditional gender roles within the realm of entrepreneurship. Historically, family businesses were often considered patriarchal entities, with leadership roles predominantly occupied by men. However, contemporary dynamics are witnessing a noteworthy transformation as women are progressively taking on more prominent roles and responsibilities in family enterprises. It is great to see so ma

We now live in a world where the environment is front and centre, discussions are taking place in board rooms around the world about carbon emissions, reducing our collective carbon footprint and making sure we are doing business in as many ways as possible to reduce the environmental impact of our actions too. In this world where environmental concerns are at the forefront, the circular economy has emerged as a beacon of hope, reshaping the way we produce, consume, and disca

Businesses must adopt new ways of thinking to fully understand the threats posed by climate change and to create more effective, impactful ways of reducing their carbon footprints, according to new research from Imperial College Business School. The study, conducted by Dr Simone Cenci and Matteo Burato of the Leonardo Centre for Business on Society at Imperial College Business School, explored how organisations currently think and act in regards to tackling climate change, an

ScotlandShop was founded back in 2002 by Anna White and despite being a relatively young family business is a business that is steeped in the history of Scotland and the tartans for which the nation is known globally. Over the past 20 years so much has happened. Paul Andrews caught up with founder Anna White in their new head office in Duns in the Scottish Borders to find out more. This is a story of entrepreneurship, dedication to a business and a desire to succeed but und

As a family business owner, you’ve dedicated years of hard work and commitment to building a legacy. Now, you’re facing a pivotal moment: the decision to sell your family business. Navigating this complex process can be daunting, but you can confidently move forward with the right corporate finance advisor. Understanding The Role Of A Corporate Finance Advisor Corporate finance advisors are experts who specialise in providing financial consulting solutions tailored to busines

BE Uniforms, formerly known as Border Embroideries, was founded by Billy and Shirley Anne Smillie in 1989 using a single head embroidery machine purchased with the help of the Prince's Trust. With around 30 years of experience supplying schools, businesses and clubs across the UK and beyond, BE Uniforms have become one of the UK's leading specialist uniform suppliers from their purpose-built factory based in the Scottish Borders. Paul Andrews went to meet William and Ross Sm

When Clement Brewer opened the first Brewers Decorator Centre in 1904, his ambition was to supply the professional decorator with everything they needed for the perfect finish. Fast forward over a century and Brewers are open to all at over 220 locations and online, supplying decorators from professionals through to DIY customers, with the right products for decorating across the UK. Simon Brewer is the fourth-generation family member to lead the business which remains true

As a fourth generation family business, the family of innovators at The Fine Bedding Company have spent more than 100 years investing in better bedding. Woven in the finest luxury materials, and responsibly manufactured in their European Eco-factory, their bedding is premium quality and made to last. A certified B-Corporation, Paul Andrews met the next generation to lead the business, Claire Watkin, to find out more and gain a better understanding of the substance behind th