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The Global Family Business Champions

Family Business Top 100 Recognition For Maria Whitehead MBE


We are delighted to announce that Maria Whitehead MBE from Hawkshead Relish has been included within the inaugural Family Business United ‘Family Business Top 100,’ which recognises the exceptional contribution of individuals and their work within a family business.


Recognition in respect of:

  • Inspirational Leadership

  • Family Business Steward

  • Champion of Change & Innovation

Mark and Maria Whitehead MBE set up the Hawkshead Relish Company over 20 years ago. Having had plenty of peaks and troughs along the way the business is now better placed than ever before. An artisan producer of award-winning preserves based in the historic village of Hawkshead in the heart of the English Lake District, this is a family business looking to the future.


Maria has been a driving force behind the business and its evolution, creating a brand that is well known and respected for the quality of products that they manufacture in the heart of Cumbria. Family values and a real sense of purpose define this family business, something that Maria has been instrumental in creating. This is a family business transitioning into the next generation with an eye on the future and Maria and Mark have created something truly special.


"Maria is an incredible individual and a great ambassador for the broader family business sector and is truly deserving of her place in the Family Business Top 100."
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