Robinsons Brewery have pledged support for Tom Kerridge’s VAT’s the problem campaign by printing the messaging on the back of five of their lorries. The campaign for 10% VAT for hospitality is approaching 230,000 signatures and the Stockport based brewers and pub co are looking to help the campaign reach one million signatures. Their delivery lorries (known as dray vehicles) can be spotted across the North West and North Wales, stretching as far north as Penrith and all the way to the Llyn Peninsula. Speaking about the efforts, David Bremner, Director of Marketing at Robinsons Brewery said: “We were keen to support the VAT’s the problem campaign, we are using our networks to help spread the message and wanted to have an impact beyond the digital screen, and what better than having the message driven around the North West by our teams delivering to our pubs." William Robinson, Managing Director of Pubs, went on to say: “The compounding impact of taxes on pubs and hospitality is really beginning to bite the sector, the changes to National Insurance and National Minimum Wage increases affect hospitality businesses especially hard." "To be able to invest in our teams and future growth, hospitality needs to be given the same support it receives in other European countries. This will also allow us to employ and invest in younger team members and through that help them to develop skills which they can use throughout their careers.” Find out more and support the campaign at www.vatstheproblem.co.uk About The Campaign Hospitality is one of the UK’s greatest success stories. It employs millions of people, gives young people their first jobs, keeps high streets alive and brings communities together. But the sector is under enormous pressure. Rising energy costs. Food inflation. Huge employment costs. Unjust business rates. The highest tax burden in the UK economy. And on top of all of that — a 20% VAT rate that is among the highest in Europe. On 1 July, the hospitality industry is coming together to launch ‘VAT’s the Problem’ — the united sector campaign calling for hospitality VAT to be reduced from 20% to 10%. This is a plan for fair tax. This is a plan for growth. Countries including Spain, Italy, France, Ireland and Germany know how important hospitality is to society, and they know it pays too much tax. That’s why they already support hospitality with lower VAT rates. The UK deserves the same. A 10% VAT rate would support pubs, restaurants, cafes, hotels and nightclubs, and many more and help get businesses investing in jobs and helping customers, strengthen high streets and local communities because when hospitality businesses close, communities lose far more than places to eat and drink — they lose connection, opportunity and local identity. This campaign is about everyone: customers, waiting staff, chefs, kitchen porters, bar staff, hotel teams, farmers, brewers, suppliers and producers. Tom Kerridge is spearheading this nationwide movement, and is asking the whole of hospitality to stand together to say Vat’s The Problem – 10% is fair for hospitality.

An award-winning North West artist has been invited back to a spa hotel resort on Windermere for a second display of his most prominent and recent works. Norman Long has returned to feature in the latest Art in the Atrium gallery at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa. He is joined in the summer exhibition by North Wales based ceramicist Wendy Lawrence. Renowned for his versatility, Norman excels in both still life and landscape subjects. He is particularly drawn to depicting people in public spaces, capturing their subtle interactions and relationships, and lending vitality, character and a narrative depth to his work. Wendy has featured in a host of clay and ceramic exhibitions, events and symposiums, including the International Ceramic Festival in Aberystwyth, the Keramisto Ceramics Festival in the Netherlands, and Ceramic Art London. The Art in the Atrium gallery displays are a regular feature at the spa resort thanks to an ongoing partnership between English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues and Lancaster-based Gavagan Art. Executive chairman of English Lakes Hotels Simon Berry says: “We’re thrilled to welcome Norman Long back to the Art in the Atrium gallery with his latest display called ‘Multitude’. He is a popular artist with a love for the great outdoors and for painting from observational experiences of everyday life." “Norman will be painting here in the atrium from the 3rd to the 7th of August as our first ‘artist in residence’. And as part of that he will be available at various times throughout the day to chat with guests and visitors about his work and art in general. “Our ceramics exhibitions continue to attract great interest from visitors and guests at Low Wood Bay too. And Wendy’s creations in clay are inspired by her research and development of new forms, surfaces, glazes and oxides to make a fascinating display.” Mary Gavagan from Gavagan Art adds: “As well as being artist in residence at Low Wood Bay this summer, Norman is also a member of the New English Art Club and currently has work on display in the Mall Galleries in London." “He says his range of subjects, whether portraits, figures or landscapes, allow him to always feel the freshness of a beginner. The discovery of new techniques is also fundamental to Norman’s interest in making paintings." “Wendy’s ongoing delight in texture and surface is the key to her work. Her ideas develop from geological investigation into natural forms found in the landscape and man’s influence on that through the study of archaeological sites.” Born in Preston, Norman Long studied at Newcastle University and was later awarded a scholarship for postgraduate study at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. His work has been exhibited regularly with the New English Art Club and has also been shown at exhibitions of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters and the Royal Society of Portrait Painters. Accolades including the de Laszlo Award from the Royal Society of Portrait Painters and Artist of the Year from Artist & Illustrators magazine helped establish his reputation as an accomplished portrait painter. He also serves as a trustee of the Manchester Academy of Fine Arts. Originally from Clitheroe, Wendy Lawrence moved to North Wales in 1999 where she has her own studio in Denbigh. As a senior lecturer at Wrexham University, Wendy continues to divide her time between making and teaching, as well as helping to organise the annual Ceramic Wales event. She has also featured in publications such as Ceramics Art and Perception, Crafts and Ceramic Review. For further information, visit here.

Aldi Scotland’s Supermarket Sweep is back for another year, giving shoppers in West Scotland the chance to raise vital funds for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS). Inspired by the iconic game show, the high-energy challenge is set to bring a buzz to the aisles, offering one lucky PA or KA postcode holder the chance to race through their local Aldi store in West Scotland and fill the trolley with their favourite products. Now in its eleventh year, the initiative has raised over £60,000 for charities across Scotland. First launched in 2016, the Supermarket Sweep invites participants to take part in a five-minute trolley dash, collecting as many items as possible before the clock runs out. Once time is called, the winner takes home their haul, while Aldi matches the total value as a donation to CHAS. Each year, CHAS supports more than 500 babies, children and young people across Scotland with life-shortening conditions, along with their families. In 2026, every penny raised through Aldi’s Supermarket Sweep will go directly to the charity, with £10,000 pledged in support. This April, CHAS launched its £20 million More Than A Hospice appeal, a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity to transform children’s palliative care across Scotland and redesign how the country cares for children with life‑shortening conditions and their families. The appeal will fund the crucial rebuilding and refreshing of CHAS’s hospices, alongside the expansion of care in homes, communities and hospitals, giving families real choice over where and how they are supported when they need it most. Residents in West Scotland can apply to take part in the Supermarket Sweep from Monday 22nd June - Sunday 5th July. Sandy Mitchell, Regional Managing Director, Aldi Scotland, said: “We are proud to once again be partnering with CHAS, following the success of last year’s Supermarket Sweep campaign. It is always a highlight to bring this initiative to communities across Scotland, and we’re looking forward to giving one lucky West Scotland resident the chance to enjoy a truly unique supermarket experience." “CHAS is a charity very close to our hearts, providing vital support to families across the country. As the Supermarket Sweep returns for 2026, we are pleased to once again raise important funds and awareness for the incredible work they do.” Iain McAndrew, Director of Income Generation and Engagement, CHAS said: “Last year’s partnership with Aldi Scotland was a huge success, with the team going above and beyond to raise vital funds and awareness through its Supermarket Sweep and a range of generous initiatives. That support has had a real impact on the families we care for and means so much to everyone involved." “This year, we have really ambitious plans. Our bold £20 million More Than A Hospice appeal comes at a critical time and will allow CHAS to meet rising pressure on children’s palliative care services by transforming how Scotland cares for its most vulnerable children and families. “Across Scotland, we support babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions, as well as their families, through a range of services including specialist palliative care, respite stays, emotional support and bereavement care. Every contribution makes a difference, and we are incredibly grateful to Aldi Scotland and everyone taking part for helping us reach more children and families across the country.” Entry is free and customers can apply by emailing their name and chosen store to supermarketsweep@aldi.co.uk before Sunday 5th July. Further details and full T&Cs can be found here. For more information about CHAS and how to support its work, visit here.

Family Business United has announced the launch of a major research initiative entitled "Women in Family Business – A Comprehensive Role Map", designed to provide one of the most detailed examinations ever undertaken into the roles women play within family firms. The study seeks to identify, document and better understand the diverse range of positions occupied by women in family businesses, from ownership and leadership roles to governance responsibilities and the often overlooked informal roles that help sustain family enterprises across generations. While women are increasingly visible in executive and ownership positions, many continue to make significant contributions that are less formally recognised. Family Business United's latest research aims to shine a light on these hidden dimensions and create a comprehensive picture of every seat that women occupy at the family business table. The research explores five key areas: Family roles defined by relationships and family dynamics. Ownership roles and financial interests. Leadership and executive responsibilities. Governance and stewardship positions. Advisory and informal roles that carry influence without necessarily carrying a title. The project also examines the gap that can exist between formal titles and actual responsibilities, levels of recognition within family firms, the challenges women have faced, their proudest achievements and the barriers that continue to affect female progression into senior leadership positions. Commenting on the launch, Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United, said: "Women have always played pivotal roles within family businesses, yet many of those roles remain unrecognised or are difficult to define. This research is about understanding the complexity, variety and interaction of the many positions women occupy, both visible and invisible. We want to create a role map that truly reflects reality and helps ensure that every contribution is acknowledged and valued." "Family businesses are built on relationships as much as they are on structures and titles." "By capturing the experiences of women involved directly or indirectly in family firms, we hope to create a significant piece of research that not only documents their impact but also stimulates conversations about recognition, leadership and succession for generations to come." Family Business United is inviting women from family businesses around the world to participate in the study, regardless of whether they hold formal positions or contribute in less visible ways. Contributions from founders, daughters, wives, mothers, shareholders, directors, advisers and family influencers are all encouraged. The findings will be published in due course and are expected to provide fresh insights into the complexity of family business life and the indispensable role women play in shaping family enterprises. Complete the short questionnaire below and be part of this landmark study:

GAP Hire Solutions, the UK’s largest independent hire company, has been awarded the prestigious Large Business of the Year Award at the Scotland Business of the Year Awards 2026. The award was presented at the inaugural ceremony held on 18th June, celebrating the very best of Scottish business. The Scotland Business of the Year Awards recognise businesses that have demonstrated exceptional performance, innovation and contribution to the Scottish economy. The Large Business of the Year category honours organisations that have shown sustained growth, leadership, and a positive impact on the communities and industries they serve. GAP’s win reflects the company’s continued commitment to excellence across its operations, from the quality of its people to the breadth and reliability of its services. The accolade is a testament to the dedication of the entire GAP team, whose efforts across every division have driven the business forward. The recognition comes at a significant moment for GAP, reinforcing the company’s position as a trusted partner to businesses and contractors across Scotland and the wider UK. With a culture built on trust and a reputation for delivering solutions when and where they are needed, GAP continues to set the standard for the industry. GAP extends its congratulations to all finalists and fellow winners at the Scotland Business of the Year Award 2026, and thanks the organisers for a memorable evening celebrating Scottish business. About GAP Hire Solutions Leads the UK's equipment hire industry, offering an extensive range of construction equipment for all sectors. With our specialist divisions and over 200 locations nationwide, we provide reliable solutions in Plant, Tools, Welfare Services, Non-Mechanical Plant, Pump, Power & Environmental Services, Trenching & Shoring, Tanker Services, Lifting Services, Survey & Safety and Event Services. As a family-owned business with over 55 years of experience, GAP reinvests a higher percentage of our turnover into our fleet than our competitors, ensuring customers benefit from access to world-class equipment. Our independence allows us to make quick, long-term decisions, delivering effective solutions.

People across central Scotland living with secondary breast cancer will come together in Falkirk this summer for a gentle, supportive walk designed to boost their physical and emotional wellbeing. Make 2nds Count works across the UK to support those affected by secondary, or metastatic, breast cancer - a condition that can be treated but not cured. The charity focuses on improving access to tailored support and funding research to extend and improve quality of life. Each year, it directly supports around 2,000 patients and reaches thousands more through education and advocacy. The event, called Walk4Hope, will bring patients, families and friends together at Falkirk’s Helix Park for a relaxed walk around an accessible 5K route designed with participants’ needs in mind. Walk4Hope encourages movement while offering a chance to connect with others facing similar challenges. By creating a welcoming environment outdoors, the event aims to lift mood, increase energy and foster a sense of community among those taking part. The event has been made possible thanks in part to a £493 grant from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust, which will cover the cost of hiring the park for the day and pay for the presence of adequate first aid facilities. Lianne Bryce, Lead Regional Fundraising Manager for Make 2nds Count, said: “The kind donation from Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust will allow us to deliver our Walk4Hope event in Scotland, bringing together our patient community, friends and family for a gentle 5K walk in the beautiful Helix Park in Falkirk." “This 5K stroll offers significant benefits, serving as an accessible, low-impact movement to promote physical well-being, boost mood and increase energy levels." "Furthermore, the event creates a supportive community setting that enhances emotional well-being, providing participants with a valuable sense of connection, empathy and companionship.” Gerry Facenna, founder of Allied Vehicles and Trustee of the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust, said: “Cancer affects every family in Scotland, and is a cause very close to my own heart. Make 2nds Count is doing important work to support people facing incredibly difficult circumstances. We are pleased to help bring Walk4Hope to Scotland, giving people the chance to come together and support one another.” Walk4Hope is expected to bring a strong sense of togetherness to all involved, offering connection and support to those who need it most.

HMG Paints, the UK’s leading independent paint manufacturer, has identified Chartwell Green as one of the defining exterior paint colour trends shaping garden renovation projects in 2026. As public interest for heritage-inspired outdoor living spaces continues to grow, HMG have seen a noticeable increase in demand for the colour Chartwell Green, with homeowners increasingly embracing heritage colours that offer a timeless alternative to darker, trend-led exterior finishes. Originally associated with the historic home of Winston Churchill at Chartwell House, Chartwell Green has evolved into one of the UK’s most recognisable heritage paint colours. It is widely specified across both traditional and contemporary properties, offering a timeless alternative to darker, trend-led exterior finishes. Chartwell Green’s continued popularity is driven by its versatility. The muted green shade complements a wide range of materials including timber, brick, sandstone, composite cladding and exterior metalwork, allowing it to work across a variety of property styles without overwhelming surrounding outdoor spaces. The growing popularity of Chartwell Green reflects a wider shift in exterior design preferences, with homeowners increasingly moving away from darker grey finishes in favour of softer, more natural colour palettes inspired by traditional British architecture and garden design. HMG Paints has seen particularly strong demand for Chartwell Green across its decorative coatings portfolio, most notably within the HydroPro Garden Paint range. As part of HMG’s Essentials Colour Collection, Chartwell Green sits alongside a carefully curated selection of timeless and versatile shades designed to suit a wide range of projects. Available in Chartwell Green alongside a selection of heritage-inspired colours, the range has become increasingly popular among homeowners looking to refresh fences, sheds and other exterior timber structures. “We’ve seen a noticeable shift towards softer heritage colours across exterior renovation projects over the last 12 months.” Explained Paddy Dyson, Marketing Manager at HMG Paints. “Customers are increasingly looking for colours that feel long-lasting and versatile rather than heavily trend-driven. Chartwell Green continues to stand out because it works equally well across traditional properties, contemporary garden rooms, fencing, gates and exterior joinery while still delivering a premium finish.” The water-based coating is suitable for fences, sheds, gates, garden rooms, summer houses, planters and outdoor structures. Combining low odour application, quick drying performance and up to five years of protection, it has become a popular choice among both DIY users and professional decorators undertaking seasonal garden renovation projects. Designed for ease of use, HydroPro Garden Paint offers excellent opacity, strong coverage and a non-drip formulation suitable for brush, roller or spray application. The coating is also safe for use around plants and pets once fully dry, while its low VOC content and recyclable packaging continue to support growing demand for more environmentally conscious decorating products. “The success of Chartwell Green comes down to balance. It needs enough warmth and softness to feel natural outdoors while still maintaining depth and character across different lighting conditions and exterior surfaces. Says Joe DiBartolo, Colour Developer at HMG Paints “When developed correctly, it creates a finish that feels timeless and understated without becoming overpowering.” Customer feedback has also reflected the continued popularity of heritage green finishes across domestic exterior projects. One homeowner commented: “We searched everywhere for a genuine Chartwell Green paint after replacing our front and garage doors. Nothing matched properly until we found HMG Paints. The finish and colour quality completely transformed the exterior of the property.” As heritage-inspired outdoor design trends continue to influence the UK home improvement market throughout 2026, HMG Paints expects Chartwell Green and heritage green exterior finishes to remain among the leading colour trends shaping garden transformations and exterior renovation projects across the UK.

A Staffordshire Moorlands sports club has been bowled over by a £750 donation from digger giant JCB to buy new kit and help boost membership. The company stepped up to the mark to help Leek Park Bowling Club and Leek Park Ladies Bowling Club buy new sets of woods and equipment which were unveiled at a recent ‘Have A Go’ Open Day at their Brough Park base. The open day saw 15 potential new recruits trying their hand at the sport for the first time and using the five new sets of bowls, mats and measures bought with the JCB donation. Ladies Club Secretary Marj Povey said: "Over the past few months we have had a few sets of woods donated but the open day session could not have taken place without the extra equipment bought with the JCB grant. Within 20 minutes all the equipment was in use and we were all busy on the greens. “We really cannot thank JCB enough for the donation and appreciate their faith in us to use the money with purpose, it has really boosted our enthusiasm and made us more determined to get people of all ages bowling whether competitively or for pleasure." “Bowls has many benefits for health and well-being not least as an opportunity to exercise outdoors and make new friendships. Research and our first-hand experience have highlighted the benefits of bowls to people who are living with dementia and those recovering from cardiac issues and physical injuries." “Members of the Bowling Clubs are keen to promote Crown Green Bowling and are willing to spend time with newcomers to teach, coach, encourage and enable them to enjoy our sport. The new equipment will allow novices to trial different weights of bowls before committing to buying their own equipment.” With more than 60 male and female members, Leek Park Bowling Club has teams in the Uttoxeter Veterans, Stoke on Trent, North Staffs Parks and Congleton Veterans Evening Leagues as well as taking part in tournaments and competitions, while Leek Park Ladies teams play in the Staffordshire Ladies League Divisions 1 and 3, as well as taking part in other County tournaments and competitions. Anyone interested in finding out more about Crown Green Bowling at Brough Park, can visit the Leek Park Bowling Club Facebook page to check out the next practice sessions. Leek u3a also have groups on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, for details visit here.

Hendy Group will be the headline sponsor of the 2026 Salisbury Motor Show, an annual event which attracts hundreds of classic, modified and performance vehicles for a family-friendly day out. Now in its fifth year, the show will this year take place on Sunday 21 June once again take over the Market Square in the heart of town. Hendy will showcase a selection of exciting new vehicles from four of the 22 brands it represents at 44 locations across the south of England. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about the latest models from Hyundai, Nissan, Skoda and the new Alpine A390. Alongside the automotive displays, guests will also be able to enjoy live music from local bands, vintage bus rides, supercar passenger rides, face painting, children’s rides and a range of games and giveaways. Paul Smith, Marketing Director at Hendy Group, said: “The Salisbury Motor Show has established itself as a key fixture in Salisbury’s events calendar and we’re very pleased to help it grow and attract even more visitors. The Hendy team will be bringing a bit of modern automotive glamour to the Market Square, previewing some of the latest cars that can be found at our local dealership. Our team will also be on hand to help explain to visitors how they can make the shift to electric vehicles.” Hendy has been part of the Salisbury community since 2019 and this family-run business represents Skoda, Nissan, Hyundai and continues to work as an authorised repairer for Renault and Dacia for drivers in and around Salisbury. To find out more information about Hendy Group, please visit here.

Family Business United welcomed family businesses from across the UK to the Royal Geographical Society in London for the National Family Business of the Year Awards 2026, celebrating the outstanding contribution family firms make to the economy, communities and future generations. Hosted by Family Business United Founder and CEO, Paul Andrews, the awards brought together over 200 guests from leading family-owned businesses from every region and sector to recognise excellence, innovation and the enduring values that set family enterprises apart. Speaking at the event, Paul said: "Family businesses are the backbone of the UK economy and these awards provide a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the people, values and achievements that make our sector so special. From first-generation entrepreneurs to businesses with centuries of heritage, the calibre of finalists and winners this year has been truly exceptional. Congratulations to every winner, runner up and finalist who has helped make the National Family Business of the Year Awards 2026 another tremendous success." Regional Family Business Winners Regional honours were awarded to: Yorkshire Family Business of the Year – John Good Group Runners Up - TL Dallas Group, Hill Cross Furniture North of England & Northern Ireland Family Business of the Year – Olea Care Group Runners Up - HMG Paints, The Quiet Site East & East Anglia Family Business of the Year – Princebuild Runners Up - Rose Calendars, Neville Trust Midlands & Central Family Business of the Year – Champions UK Runners Up - Bunches Florapost, Colton Packaging London & South East Family Business of the Year – Shepherd Neame Runners Up - Powerday PLC, Active Digital, Shorts Group Scotland Family Business of the Year – The Malcolm Group Runners Up - Mactaggart & Mickel, Spectrum Service Solutions South West & Wales Family Business of the Year – Mathias & Sons Runners Up - EG Carter, Tamar Fresh South of England Family Business of the Year – New Forest Ice Cream Runners Up - HCE Foodservice Sector Family Business Winners Celebrating excellence across industry sectors, the winners were: Manufacturing Family Business of the Year – Sesame Access Systems Runners Up - HMG Paints, Power Plastics Food & Drink Family Business of the Year – Breckland Orchard Runners Up - New Forest Ice Cream Property & Construction Family Business of the Year – EG Carter Runners Up - Princebuild, Dobsons Financial & Professional Services Family Business of the Year – TL Dallas Group Runners Up - MHR Global, Howarths Transport & Logistics Family Business of the Year – Holdsworth Foods Runners Up - The Malcolm Group, Shorts Group Hospitality, Hotel & Leisure Family Business of the Year – Shepherd Neame Runners Up - Stockvale, The Quiet Site Homes & Gardens Family Business of the Year – Ernest Doe & Sons Runners Up - Furniture Village Retail & Wholesale Family Business of the Year – Furniture Village Runners Up - Ernest Doe & Sons Health & Welfare Family Business of the Year – Olea Care Group Runners Up - Care Connections, Howcrofts Funeral Services People's Choice Winners Voted for by the public, the prestigious and much coveted People's Choice Awards went to: Yorkshire - Care Connections Runners Up - The Pet Vet East & East Anglia - Princebuild Runners Up - Matthew Douglas Limited Midlands & Central - Bunches Florapost Runners Up - RSP UK London & South East - Chartway Janitorial Runners Up - Nourish Contract Catering North of England & Northern Ireland - HMG Paints Runners Up - Mercury Lifts Scotland - Spectrum Service Solutions Runners Up - The Malcolm Group South, South West & Wales - Laceeze Defiance Runners Up - Tamarisk National Award Winners Recognising businesses that have demonstrated exceptional leadership, purpose and impact across a range of categories, the winners were: Innovation Award – Daltons Runners Up - Croxsons Sustainability Award – The Quiet Site Runners Up - Hill Cross Furniture Entrepreneurship Award – Falcon Contract Flooring Runners Up - The Pet Vet Positive Societal Impact Award – Dobsons Runners Up - Sesame Access Systems, Howarths Community Support & Involvement Award – Powerday PLC Runners Up - Princebuild, John Good Group Essence of Family Business Award – Neville Trust Runners Up - Howcrofts Funeral Services Small Family Business of the Year – Active Digital Runners Up - The Quiet Site Shepherd Neame Crowned Supreme Champion Family Business of the Year 2026 The highlight of the evening saw Shepherd Neame named National Family Business of the Year 2026 and Supreme Champion, sponsored by Brooks Macdonald. Joining Shepherd Neame as finalists for the ultimate accolade were Olea Care Group, John Good Group and Champions UK, each recognised for their exceptional leadership, long-term vision and commitment to the values that underpin successful family businesses. Founded officially in 1698 and based in Faversham, Kent, Shepherd Neame is Britain's oldest brewer. Employing around 1,700 people, the independent family business operates a vertically integrated model, brewing traditional ales and lagers while managing an extensive portfolio of pubs, bars and hotels across London and the South East, with products distributed globally. Commenting on the award, Jonathan Neame, Chief Executive of Shepherd Neame, said: "We are incredibly proud to be recognised in the Family Business of the Year Awards." "Shepherd Neame may be Britain's oldest brewer but our approach is anything but old-fashioned. We remain an independent family business, yet flexible and agile, and that has enabled us to survive and thrive." "Recognition on the national stage is fantastic for everyone involved in our family business today, those that have gone before and those that will continue the journey in the years to come. We are absolutely delighted to be named Supreme Champion Family Business of the Year." Paul added: "Shepherd Neame is a truly impressive example of a family business. Whilst they boast an incredible heritage, their continued growth, strength and resilience are testament to their clear purpose and values, brought to life through constant innovation and adaptation. Thriving in this sector is a challenge, to say the least, and the years following the pandemic have been particularly difficult, yet they continue to demonstrate that success comes from having a clear purpose, strong governance, a long-term perspective and an unwavering commitment to the communities they serve." "For more than 300 years in Faversham they have kept families in work, pubs thriving and communities connected. They have exceptional heritage, formal governance, structured succession and a compelling articulation of identity and stewardship. They are resilient, innovative and adaptive, and are quite simply a benchmark family business with exceptional leadership, strong values and a firm eye on where they are going." Judges were unanimous in their praise. As one judge noted: "So many things stood out for me from the winner that differentiated them from the others." "Strong governance, wider community engagement, a deep history, sustainability credentials, purpose and values and ultimately they represent the true essence of what being an independent British family business is all about." The panel of judges comprising family business owners and leaders, previous winners, leading family business academics and professional advisers agreed, adding: "They are a truly deserving winner that reflects heritage, innovation and purpose in equal measure." Summing up the views of the judges, Paul concluded: "What a fantastic evening celebrating the very best of British family businesses. An incredible sector with some amazing businesses and it is an absolute honour to organise these awards and give recognition to their achievements. Some incredible winners with amazing stories." "And we crowned an incredible overall champion. Shepherd Neame are a fantastic family business and the true essence of what a successful British family business is all about. A truly deserving winner in all respects. Congratulations to our Supreme Champion Family Business of the Year for 2026, Shepherd Neame." The National Family Business of the Year Awards are organised by Family Business United, the leading organisation championing family firms across the UK and internationally. The awards celebrate the innovation, stewardship, values and long-term perspective that make family businesses the backbone of the British economy. If you are interested in finding our more about the awards and entering in 2027 you can find out more of the details here and if you would like to find out more about getting involved as a sponsor or judge, please do not hesitate to contact us. Check out the gallery of images from the evening here:

National painting contractor, Alfred Bagnall & Sons, based in Cleckheaton, Yorkshire, is officially taking part in industry-led national product stewardship scheme, PaintCare – the first of its kind in the UK. PaintCare’s aim is to establish a circular economy for leftover decorative paints and packaging, as well as supporting social enterprises that specialise in paint reuse. Developed by the British Coatings Federation (BCF), with support from leading industry organisations, PaintCare addresses current concerns around the waste and disposal of leftover paint. Currently, a huge 98% of leftover paint is sent to landfill, incinerated or poured down the drain. PaintCare is on a mission to recycle, reuse or re-manufacture 75% of this leftover paint and achieve a 42% recycling rate for paint packaging by 2032. With quality funding from UK paint manufacturers, PaintCare is able to cover all costs of transporting, sorting and recycling leftover paint to prevent it heading straight for landfill. The Director of PaintCare Ltd, Dr Steve Snaith, commented: “Every year, millions of litres of leftover paint are lost to landfill and incineration in the UK. The PaintCare trial will help us understand how best to collect, re-manufacture and recycle this valuable material to support a more circular future for decorative paint.” With numerous paint drop-off points popping up at decorating centres and paint retailers, the scheme is currently undergoing a trial in the West Midland area, allowing members of the public to hand over their leftover paint, completely free of charge. Collections of the paint itself will be managed by Biffa for the duration of the trial, ensuring the smooth running of the scheme. PaintCare’s official launch took place at the House of Commons, during a Parliamentary Reception. Representatives from the scheme spoke alongside BCF members and MPs. Bagnalls was also amongst those in attendance, pledging to support the scheme through its Midlands branch, located in Wolverhampton. Ben Featherstone, Sustainability and Compliance Manager at Bagnalls, said, “It’s great to see a collaborative approach to dealing with leftover paint and empty packaging developing within our industry. At Bagnalls, we always welcome innovation that improves our ways of working, so supporting PaintCare and the BCF was an absolute no-brainer for us." “This industry-led, innovative circular economy scheme aligns directly with our values, protecting our planet by reducing carbon emissions, preventing excessive waste and supporting local enterprises with donations of reusable and re-manufactured paint. “We’re excited to see how PaintCare develops in the future and more than happy to support the trial, in the hope of growing the scheme towards a national launch.” Joanne Gualda, Director at Bagnalls, added, “I have been in the industry for many years and have pushed for change within Bagnalls and within the industry as a whole. We’re always committed to adopting new ways of working so that we can drive for a greener future." “Bagnalls fully supports PaintCare’s objectives and hope that the results of the West Midlands trial back the need for a national rollout of this vital initiative.” Thanks to the involvement of Bagnalls, PaintCare now has access to accurate data from a national contractor, which aids understanding of paint volumes with a view to a potential nationwide rollout of the scheme. Director of PaintCare Ltd, Dr Steve Snaith, commented, “The support from Bagnalls is key to us developing a model that we can scale up and use to create an accessible national scheme. The insight Bagnalls is able to provide will help us achieve our ambition to increase paint reuse, recycling and re-manufacture rates to 75% by 2030.” With the development of this important scheme for the painting and decorating industry, we’re seeing yet another shift towards greener practices for individuals and businesses alike. As the industry focuses on sustainability, we can look forward to a greener vision of the future.

There is a moment that comes in the life of almost every successful family business — a moment when the informal arrangements that worked perfectly well in the early years begin to strain under the weight of growth, complexity, and competing interests. It might be triggered by a succession question, a disagreement between siblings, the arrival of a new generation, or simply the realisation that the business has grown beyond what any one person can manage alone. It is at precisely this moment that governance, long overlooked, often undervalued, reveals itself as the single most important factor in determining whether a family business endures or unravels. Good governance is not a bureaucratic imposition. It is not a set of rules designed to slow things down or constrain the entrepreneurial energy that built the business in the first place. It is, quite simply, the framework that allows a family business to make better decisions, manage conflict before it becomes crisis, and build the kind of trust, within the family, within the workforce, and with the wider world, that is the bedrock of long-term success. What Governance Actually Means in a Family Business Context Governance is the system by which a business is directed and controlled. In a family business, this encompasses not just the structures of the company itself, the board, the management team, the reporting lines, but also the relationship between the family and the business. These two spheres are inextricably linked, and managing that relationship wisely is at the heart of good family business governance. Effective governance in a family business typically involves several interconnected elements: a clear ownership structure; a well-functioning board with appropriate independent representation; defined roles and responsibilities for family members who work in the business; a family council or equivalent forum for discussing family matters separately from business matters; and a set of agreed principles, often codified in a family constitution or charter, that guide how decisions are made, how disputes are resolved, and how the business will be passed to future generations. None of this needs to be complicated. The most effective governance frameworks are those that are clear, proportionate to the size and complexity of the business, and genuinely owned by the family rather than imposed from outside. The Board From Rubber Stamp to Strategic Asset In many family businesses, particularly in their earlier stages, the board exists largely on paper. Meetings are infrequent, decisions are made informally, and the concept of independent scrutiny is largely absent. This is understandable when the founder is running the show and everything is working well, the formalities can feel unnecessary. But as the business grows, a passive or purely ceremonial board becomes a genuine liability. A well-constituted board, one that includes independent non-executive directors alongside family members, transforms the governance of a family business. Independent directors bring expertise, external perspective, and the ability to ask the questions that family members may find difficult to raise with one another. They provide a check on the concentration of power in any one individual, help to professionalise decision-making, and lend credibility to the business in the eyes of lenders, customers, and potential partners. The appointment of the right independent directors is one of the most consequential decisions a family business can make. They should be chosen not merely for their credentials but for their ability to engage constructively with the family, to speak honestly when it matters, and to genuinely understand the distinctive culture and values that make the business what it is. A good independent director is not a critic but a trusted adviser with the standing to say what others might not. Separating Family and Business And Why It Matters One of the most important, and most frequently neglected aspects of family business governance is the deliberate separation of family matters from business matters. When family dynamics bleed into business decisions, and business pressures colour family relationships, the results can be damaging to both. A family council provides the right forum for family members to discuss their hopes, concerns, and expectations in relation to the business without those conversations disrupting board meetings or management decisions. It is the place to talk about values, about the role of the next generation, about how wealth will be managed and shared, and about the principles that will guide the family's relationship with the business over time. This separation is not about creating distance between the family and the business. It is about ensuring that both relationships are given the attention and the space they deserve. Families that talk openly and regularly about these matters are far better equipped to navigate the challenges that inevitably arise. Those that avoid the conversations until a crisis forces them are far more vulnerable. The Family Constitution Putting Principles Into Practice A family constitution, sometimes called a family charter or family protocol, is a document that sets out the principles, values, and rules that govern the relationship between the family and the business. It is not a legal document in the conventional sense, though it may inform legal structures. It is, rather, a statement of intent: a record of what the family has agreed, what it stands for, and how it will conduct itself. A well-crafted family constitution might address questions such as: Who is eligible to work in the business, and on what terms? How are dividends decided? What happens if a family member wants to sell their shares? How will the next generation be prepared for leadership? How will disputes be resolved? What are the non-negotiable values that the business will always uphold? The process of creating a family constitution is often as valuable as the document itself. It brings the family together around questions that are easy to defer but impossible to avoid indefinitely, and it builds the shared understanding and trust that good governance depends upon. Families that have invested time in this process consistently report that it strengthens both their relationships and their business. Succession Planning and Governance at Its Most Critical No governance challenge is more important, or more frequently mishandled, than succession. The transition of leadership from one generation to the next is the moment at which the absence of good governance is most acutely felt, and the stakes could not be higher. Research suggests that only around 15 per cent of family businesses survive into the third generation. Poor succession planning is among the leading causes of this attrition. Good governance transforms succession from a crisis into a process. It ensures that the question of who will lead the business in the future is addressed openly, early, and on the basis of merit and suitability rather than birth order or assumption. It creates the structures through which the next generation can be properly prepared, through education, through experience in the business, and through mentoring by those who have led it before. It also ensures that the expectations of non-active family members, those who hold shares but do not work in the business, are properly understood and managed. These individuals have a legitimate interest in the future of the business, and a governance framework that gives them a voice and a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities is essential to family cohesion. Governance and the Outside World Good governance matters not just internally but in how the family business is perceived by those outside it. Banks, investors, suppliers, and major customers are all more likely to engage confidently with a family business that can demonstrate clear ownership, sound financial controls, a credible board, and a coherent strategy. In an environment where businesses are increasingly expected to demonstrate accountability and transparency, governance is a genuine competitive advantage. For family businesses considering bringing in external investment, preparing for a partial or full sale, or seeking to list on a public market, the quality of their governance will be scrutinised closely. Those that have invested in getting it right are far better positioned, and far more valuable, than those that have not. Starting the Journey For many family businesses, the prospect of formalising governance can feel daunting. The language of boards and constitutions and independent directors can seem remote from the practical reality of running a business day to day. But the journey towards better governance does not need to be taken all at once, and it does not need to be taken alone. The most important step is simply to start. To have the conversations that have been deferred. To bring in an adviser who understands the unique dynamics of family business. To commit, as a family, to the principle that the structures you put in place today are an investment in the future of everything you have built. The businesses that endure, that pass successfully from generation to generation, that grow and adapt and thrive across decades, are almost always those that took governance seriously before they were forced to. They recognised that the framework matters as much as the strategy, that trust must be built and not assumed, and that the greatest gift one generation can give the next is not just a successful business, but the structures and values needed to keep it that way. Governance Is a Gift to Future Generations Good governance is, at its heart, an act of stewardship. It is the recognition that a family business is more than a commercial enterprise. It is a legacy, a set of values, a contribution to the lives of employees, customers, and communities that extends far beyond the lifetime of any individual founder or leader. The families that understand this, that see governance not as a constraint but as the very thing that makes lasting success possible, are the ones who build businesses that stand the test of time. They are the ones who ensure that what they have created with such effort and dedication does not merely survive the transition from one generation to the next, but flourishes. In the end, good governance is not about rules and structures. It is about respect, for the business, for the family, and for everyone whose future is bound up in both.