The world is changing at a significant pace and that is certainly changing the way that all businesses operate, and that includes those in the family business space. Business leaders and senior management of the family firms of tomorrow will certainly need different skills to their counterparts in family firms today and our panel are in full agreement that family firms need to further evolve in order to engage, recruit, onboard, develop and retain the next generation of their businesses. We asked our panel that given demographics around the world are changing, as are the desires and aspirations of the next generation, if they thought that family firms will need to further evolve in response to the changes affecting the next generation. The results: We can already see the next generation in family businesses ushering in a transformative era, characterised by a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation. As younger members assume leadership roles, there is a palpable shift towards embracing technological advancements, sustainable practices, and diverse perspectives. These emerging leaders are redefining the traditional family business model, navigating challenges with agility, and leveraging modern strategies to ensure long-term viability. The infusion of fresh ideas, coupled with a commitment to preserving familial values, is shaping a new narrative for family enterprises, poised to thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape, with a next generation that have different perspectives on how they want to do business too. Our panel was in complete agreement that there is need for continuing evolution of family businesses in order to attract and retain members of the next generation. THE THOUGHTS OF OUR ‘THINK TANK’ REPRESENTATIVES: “I think that understanding the needs of the next generation while ensuring that the next generation shows respect for what the now gen has built is incredibly important. The needs and mindset of the different generations means there are a lot more opportunities for change and to hear different perspectives but it also means there are more chances for conflict to arise. As the next gen becomes more confident and capable, a great relationship with the now gen is essential and requires evolution.” Kyler Gilbert Vice President & Consultant, Business Consulting Resources "I think younger generations have firm ideas about what they want to do with their resources but I also see that many seek meaning through the shared journey so long as it involves a shared purpose, values and there is openness to hearing the perspective of the younger generation.” Elizabeth Bagger Founder, Avanti FBA “One of the things that I have noticed from my research about next generation preparation in family enterprises is that most of what we know about the next gen comes from the encumbent. Thus, researchers and advisers need to further explore the voice of the next gen in order to better understand how to connect with them and to see how they want to be involved with the family business.” Isabel Botero Adviser at Generation6 and The Fischer Chair in Family Entrepreneurship at the University of Louisville “While family businesses offer great opportunities for growth, they still face challenges in effectively onboarding the next generation and creating the road map for them.” Abirami Duraisamy Executive Coach For Family Managed Businesses, Outshine Outplay “Family firms always need to adapt to their own next generation of successors and this is a good thing, and helpful in modernising and updating ideas and approaches as generations shift. Families need to be in constant dialogue about the massive global changes taking place to generate useful strategies to tackle the implications for their own businesses.” N ick Mayhew Managing Director, Alembic Strategy “My mantra is that ownership is more important than management. Cultivate an effective cohort of rising generation owners and they can set the purpose and values of the enterprise.” Christian Stewart Independent Family Advisor, Family Legacy Asia “One big generational divide is the expectations around work/life balance. Rising gens are demanding balance and will not sacrifice their wellbeing for the business. Gens in control expect the rising gen to do whatever it takes. There is a big divide here that needs to be managed.” Jean Santos President, Business Consulting Resources “I believe that of particular relevance are the next gen values, habits and aspirations concerning sustainability and the use/adoption of new technologies. Hence, family businesses may need to evolve by adopting more suitable business models.” Elias Hadjielias Assistant Professor, Cyprus University of Technology “The most successful family businesses are those that combine non-financial with financial goals and who harvest the innovative and entrepreneurial skills of the senior generation, including legacy and history, with the knowledge, perspective and skills of the next generation who are far more technologically savvy and can help modernise the business, building on the history of the past generations and the founders. I think family businesses need to recognise the need for change. We have seen one thing for sure, that family businesses will continue doing what they have always done until there is something quite major that changes things. I think they need to be more open and proactive about anticipating the changes, engaging the next generation and taking note of how the world is changing and acting in order to remain relevant.” Kirsty Ross Family Business Director, Turcan Connell “The world continues to change at a fast pace – demographics, working remotely, technology and AI are all present and real, together with the desires of the next generation to undertake roles that have purpose and impact." "Family businesses need to recognise the changing needs of their business and the skills required of future leaders when engaging with their next generation as things have changed and changes will need to be made as to how the next generation are engaged and informed, educated on the nature and prospects for the family business and encouraged to get involved." "The next generation are often located in different corners of the world but with modern technology there are tools to evolve ways of working and engaging and successful family businesses will embrace the opportunity and make it work." John Broons Family Business Adviser, John Broons Consulting Find out more: These results were part of the 2024 Global Family Business Think Tank Report that was published in Spring 2024. Check out the full findings in the report here

Financial literacy is a critical life skill that lays the foundation for sound financial decision-making and economic well-being. As the world becomes increasingly complex, equipping children with financial and wealth literacy early in life becomes imperative. Here, we take a look at the importance of financial education for children, effective strategies for imparting this knowledge, and the long-term benefits of such education. The Importance of Financial and Wealth Literacy Financial literacy encompasses a range of skills, including budgeting, saving, investing, and understanding credit and debt. Teaching children these skills is crucial for several reasons. Financial literacy empowers children to make informed decisions, fostering a sense of independence and responsibility. Understanding how to manage money helps children gain confidence in handling their finances, reducing dependency on others. By learning about credit and debt management, children can avoid common financial pitfalls such as excessive borrowing and high-interest debt. Early education can instil the importance of living within one’s means and the dangers of accumulating debt. Early financial education sets the stage for long-term financial health. Children who understand the principles of saving and investing are more likely to build wealth and achieve financial security in adulthood. Financially literate individuals contribute to the economy by participating in the financial system, investing in markets, and starting businesses. This participation can lead to broader economic growth and stability. Strategies for Teaching Financial Literacy Effective financial education for children should be age-appropriate, engaging, and practical. Introducing basic financial concepts at an early age lays the groundwork for more complex topics later. For young children, this can include understanding the concept of money, the difference between needs and wants, and the basics of saving. Practical experiences are invaluable in teaching financial literacy. Parents can involve children in everyday financial activities such as grocery shopping, budgeting for family vacations, or saving for a desired toy. This hands-on approach makes financial concepts tangible and relevant. Educational apps and games can make learning about finance fun and interactive. There are many resources available that teach children about budgeting, saving, and investing in an engaging manner. Teaching children to set and achieve savings goals helps them understand the value of delayed gratification. Parents can encourage children to save a portion of their allowance or earnings from chores for a specific goal, such as a new gadget or a special outing. Opening a savings account for a child can provide practical experience with banking. Parents can teach children how to deposit money, track their balance, and understand the concept of earning interest. As children grow older, introducing them to the basics of investing can be beneficial. Explaining concepts such as shares, bonds, and mutual funds can help demystify the world of investing. Simulated stock market games or actual investments with small amounts of money can provide practical experience. Understanding credit is crucial for avoiding debt. Parents can teach teenagers about how credit cards work, the importance of paying off balances in full, and the impact of interest rates and credit scores. Long-Term Benefits of Financial Education The benefits of teaching children financial literacy extend well beyond childhood. Financially literate individuals are better equipped to manage their finances, save for the future, and invest wisely. This knowledge contributes to overall financial security and stability. With a solid foundation in financial literacy, individuals are more likely to make informed decisions regarding major life events such as buying a home, funding education, or planning for retirement. Understanding financial principles can reduce anxiety related to money management. Financially literate individuals are better prepared to handle financial challenges and unexpected expenses. Financial literacy can contribute to the creation and preservation of generational wealth. Educated individuals are more likely to teach their children about money management, creating a cycle of financial competence and stability. On a broader scale, widespread financial literacy can contribute to economic growth. Financially savvy individuals are more likely to invest in businesses, engage in entrepreneurial activities, and contribute to a stable and prosperous economy. Teaching children about financial and wealth literacy is a vital investment in their future. By imparting essential financial skills and knowledge early in life, parents and educators can empower children to make informed financial decisions, avoid debt, and build long-term financial stability. The benefits of such education extend beyond the individual, contributing to broader economic growth and stability. Integrating financial literacy into the education system and family life is an essential step towards creating a financially literate and economically resilient society.

Aberdeen’s historic Union Terrace Gardens has been revitalized through a partnership between UK plant nursery Johnsons Nurseries and Ashlea Ltd, one of the UK’s leading commercial landscape providers. This remarkable project recently won a Gold Award at the 2024 Scottish Design Awards for Public Building and another Gold Award for Lighting. Additionally, it secured the prestigious Project of the Year and Public Realm Project accolades at the ASA Design Awards 2024, following its 2023 CECA Scotland Place Making Award. LDA Design led a project team comprising Balfour Beatty, Ashlea Ltd, Arup, Stallan Brand, Ryden, McLeod and Aitken. Balfour Beatty awarded Ashlea with the soft landscaping contract. Johnsons Nurseries is a century-old commercial nursery located between Harrogate and York. Their supply included over £215k worth of plants for the gardens. This included a custom hand-grown city crest made from gold and green Ilex crenata, and 130 different varieties of plants. Their supply portfolio includes the Athletes Village for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, the luxury hotel Grantley Hall, and various Royal Parks. Originally opened in 1879 by architect James Matthews, Union Terrace Gardens has undergone a £28.3m rejuvenation. The gardens now feature new wheelchair-friendly routes, a children’s play area, and three new pavilions for cafes, restaurants, and cultural spaces. The Gardens also feature extensive seating, new lighting elements, refurbished historic arches and Victorian toilets and specially commissioned artworks. Additionally, there is a new water feature, and the statues of William Wallace, Rabbie Burns, and Edward VII have been cleaned alongside, the ‘grand staircase’ leading down to the lower Gardens. Over 20,000 plants were supplied to increase biodiversity within the Victorian park, including 1,252 Primula vulgaris, 1,853 Ophiopogon plan 'Nigrescens', 1,400 Brunnera, 1,270 Ajuga reptans 'Atropurpurea’, 1,008 Anemone Honorine Jobert 2L, and thousands of Ilex crenata gold and green which made up the city crest. Johnsons Nurseries’ marketing manager, Eleanor Richardson, said: “We were thrilled when the opportunity arose to work on such an iconic garden project, and it was great to work with the fantastic team at Ashlea once again." “The project has breathed new life into the gardens, and we hope that our plants can be enjoyed for generations to come.” Stuart Simpson, Director at Ashlea Ltd, said: “We were delighted to work with the Johnsons team once again on this project, transforming Union Terrace Gardens into a fresh, revitalized space. Johnsons’ top-quality plants, trees, and shrubs really enhanced the gardens and made this a truly tranquil location.” Johnsons Nurseries and Ashlea Ltd have collaborated on numerous projects before, including The NCL2 Fulfilment Centre, Stockton, Sighthill, Glasgow, Pennine 5 Campus, Sheffield and various Center Parcs locations across the UK. Photo credit: Chris Swan Photography

Positive Action in Housing, a leading homeless and human rights charity based in Glasgow, has been awarded £10,000 by the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust. This funding will support the charity's Room for Refugees Hosting Programme, a crucial initiative providing shelter for destitute and homeless people within the homes of volunteer hosts. Since 2002 the Room for Refugees programme has offered stable, temporary shelter to those in need, enabling them to regularise their legal status in a safe environment. Volunteer hosts offer accommodation, and Room for Refugees manages the process emphasising moving asylum seekers onto independent living after resolving their asylum cases with the Home Office. The programme has received referrals from 81 external organizations, including the British Red Cross and Refugee Council, and as of March 31st, 2024, has successfully sheltered 6,581 people from refugee and migrant communities. Robina Qureshi, the CEO of Positive Action in Housing, expressed her gratitude for the funding, saying: "We are immensely grateful to the trustees of the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust for their remarkable generosity in supporting our Room for Refugees programme." "This substantial donation will profoundly impact our ability to provide safe and secure spaces for people seeking refuge and help rebuild their lives. This act of kindness reinforces our belief in the power of community and the importance of standing together in times of need. “The Facenna family, and everyone at Allied Vehicles, have shown truly visionary leadership in this regard, and we hope this encourages more people to come forward and offer rooms in their homes to people from refugee backgrounds. We extend our deepest gratitude to the Trustees for creating a brighter and more inclusive future for all." The current fundraising climate for Scottish charities is exceptionally difficult, as public donations have reduced substantially in the wake of the cost-of-living crisis. The support from the Trust will help Positive Action in Housing to continue assisting refugees and asylum seekers, offering them not only shelter but also critical support services, including legal aid, welfare rights, and resettlement assistance. David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles Group, commented: "The work of Positive Action in Housing and their Room for Refugees programme is very close to my family’s heart. Their commitment to providing safe shelter and support to vulnerable refugees, many of whom have faced unimaginable hardship, aligns with our values, and we are delighted to contribute to their impactful work.”

Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned U.S. food and agricultural products company, announced the achievement of a significant safety milestone. The company’s Concord, North Carolina food production facility completed an entire year without an Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) recordable safety incident, a rare safety milestone. An OSHA recordable incident is any work-related injury or illness that’s serious enough to require medical attention, cause missed work, involve a major diagnosis, or lead to unconsciousness, all tracked by employers to improve workplace safety. On July 11, the Concord team celebrated one year without a single recordable safety incident. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average poultry processing facility experiences 5.7 recordable incidents per 100 employees annually. The Concord facility has 270 associates which demonstrates the significance of this milestone. Gregg Uecker, Chief Supply Chain and Operations Officer of Perdue Farms commented: “Over the past three years, the Concord team has been implementing a robust Maintenance and Reliability Strategy, which has led to a 60% improvement in overall plant downtime performance, a 140% improvement in maintenance labor spend variance to standard, and a 120% improvement in material and services spend variance to standard. These efforts have been key in achieving this incredible safety milestone.” The Concord site’s continuous improvement and unwavering focus on safety have been recognized with the prestigious Reliability of Everything™ Culture Improvement Award from Efficient Plant magazine and the University of Tennessee Reliability & Maintainability Center. “This milestone is a celebration of our team’s dedication to maintaining a safe and productive workplace,” said Joe Johnson, Perdue director of operations in Concord. “This is a great milestone for our team, and I want to personally thank all our associates for their hard work and dedication.” * Agri Stats is a data analytics and consulting company that focuses on the meat processing industry.

Alexander Eberharter (44) has taken over the management of the West region of the international transport and logistics company Gebrüder Weiss on August 1, succeeding Hannes Mayr (65), who is retiring after 41 years with the company. Mayr, who was born in Tyrol, can look back on an impressive career with the logistics company. After joining the company in 1983, he held various management positions in Tyrol, before being appointed Regional Manager West and then Director in 2028. At Gebrüder Weiss, the West region comprises the Austrian states of Vorarlberg and Tyrol, as well as Switzerland. Salzburg and Carinthia were added to this region at the beginning of 2024. Wolfram Senger-Weiss, CEO of Gebrüder Weiss, in recognition of Hannes Mayr’s work said: “Hannes Mayr and his team have made a significant contribution to the success of Gebrüder Weiss in our home region. Thanks to his commitment and professionalism, we continue to be the number one logistics partner for the majority of industrial and commercial companies.” "It was not only the international consignors in the West region that benefited from his forwarding and logistics expertise. As chairman of the examination board for forwarding agents, he passed on his knowledge to generations of apprentices for decades. For many years, Mayr also championed the interests of the industry in the Tyrolean Chamber of Commerce as Chairman of the Freight Forwarding and Logistics Section." "His successor, Alexander Eberharter, has been with Gebrüder Weiss for 22 years. After holding various management positions at the Gebrüder Weiss site in Hall in Tyrol, he took over as branch manager in Nuremberg in 2017 and was subsequently put in charge of the logistics company’s strategic business development in Germany. He is now responsible for 1,100 employees at 25 logistics locations, six of which will be expanded in the coming years: Pratteln near Basel, Wolfurt in Vorarlberg, Salzburg, Hall and Langkampfen in Tyrol, and Maria Saal in Carinthia." “The local economies in the western region are very different, but they do have one thing in common: industrial and commercial companies need a logistics provider nearby that gives them access to a global transportation network with high quality standards. We meet this need by tailoring the services of each branch specifically to the needs of regional consignors and integrating them into our global network,” Eberharter explains.

Heritage textile manufacturer and woollen mill Hainsworth has challenged students from Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) to design a garment representing transeasonal fashion. The 23/24 Live Brief competition centred around the slow fashion movement, encouraging third-year Fashion Design students to craft an item of clothing that focused on timeless designs that can be worn across the seasons. Students used Hainsworth’s wool fabrics for their designs, known for their thermoregulating properties, keeping wearers warm in winter and cool in summer. Students were encouraged to consider various aspects such as layering, garment longevity, versatility, quality, craftsmanship, style over trends, functionality, and fit. The idea behind the slow fashion movement is to reject excessive consumerism and mass-produced clothing in favour of ethical clothing production and consumption, focusing on high-quality designs made to last. A team from Hainsworth judged the competition and chose Gareth Godfrey-Williams as the worthy winner. Gareth designed a field jacket made from wool shell, featuring a taped nylon hood, back vent, lightweight linen lining, 14 pockets, and adjustable cuffs and sides. Vivien Li was selected as runner-up with a raincoat that could fold down into a bag. Gareth received £500 for winning the competition, and Vivien, £200. Ivana Noon, Business Development Manager at Hainsworth, explains: "Gareth’s final garment, made from a Hainsworth Military Lightweight Cavalry Twill, was truly remarkable. We were in awe of the unique construction of his garment, which was inspired by the machinery that Gareth took photos of when he and his fellow students visited the mill earlier this year. His attention to detail was second to none. Gareth also demonstrated utmost professionalism throughout the project, a truly deserving and talented winner." Hainsworth is a 240-year-old British vertical woollen mill and one of the last remaining in Britain, and can process a product from raw fibre to finished cloth entirely from its site in West Yorkshire. The Royal Warrant Holder’s premium woollen textiles are chosen by designers, tailors and garment manufacturers from diverse industries, including fashion, interiors, theatre and military.

korev, St Austell Brewery’s flagship lager, has announced its continued partnership with the Marine Conservation Society for a fourth year. The relationship bolsters korev’s commitment to supporting sustainable initiatives that safeguard the environment and the brand’s coastal homeland. Throughout the year, the partnership will see korev sponsor beach cleans where people can get involved across Devon and Cornwall to reduce litter and monitor the damage it causes to coastlines. The Marine Conservation Society’s logo will appear on korev cans in supermarkets, with 10p from every pack of cans sold being donated to the charity. St Austell Brewery will also donate 10p from every pint of korev sold in one of its 44 managed pubs across the South West. Both donation mechanisms are due to go live at the beginning of the new year. Laura McKay, St Austell Brewery’s Marketing & Communications Director, said: “As a business focused on sustainability and looking after the South West coastline, we’re delighted to be renewing our longstanding partnership with the Marine Conservation Society." “We’re proud to be in a position to be able to amplify the charity’s conservation campaigns - fighting for a cleaner, healthier ocean - through alignment with the korev brand.” Lara Ellis, Corporate Partnerships Manager at the Marine Conservation Society added: “Our partnership with korev is multi-faceted, enabling us to bring our brand to customers in the South West, reaching people in supermarkets and St Austell Brewery pubs." “It’s great to have such an easy way for people to support us and have a refreshing beer at the same time. This partnership powerfully brings together two groups eager to preserve the marine environment.” As well as St Austell Brewery’s flagship larger backing the charity, the business has also developed a new wine brand, with each bottle sold generating a 20p donation to the Marine Conservation Society. The New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc delights with its vibrant and aromatic profile. Drinkers can expect zesty notes of lime and grapefruit, complemented by tropical hints of passionfruit and gooseberry. The palate is crisp and refreshing, with a well-balanced acidity that enhances the wine's minerality. Its lively and clean finish leaves a lasting impression, making it a perfect match for seafood, salads, and light, fresh dishes. The wine will be available to St Austell Wines wholesale customers from late summer. The Marine Conservation Society is a UK charity campaigning for a cleaner, better-protected, healthier ocean. The charity tackles threats to habitats and species by working closely with communities, businesses, and governments, organising beach cleans, fighting plastic pollution, forever chemicals and sewage in addition to shaping government policy. Born in Cornwall, korev (4.8% ABV) is a lager brewed in the Helles style, available in bottle and can from Morrisons, ASDA, and Co-op stores nationwide.

Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust is proud to announce a £1,000 donation to The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice to support their Creative Art Service. This vital program is designed to improve the emotional well-being and quality of life for patients and their families. Since its founding in 1983, The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice has provided gold-standard specialist palliative care to over 1,200 patients annually in Glasgow and East Renfrewshire. The hospice supports individuals diagnosed with life-limiting or life-shortening illnesses, such as cancer, heart failure, lung disease, and neurological conditions. Their holistic approach encompasses physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being through inpatient care, community nursing, hospital team support, and various services including psychological and bereavement support. The Creative Art Service at The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice offers a range of creative experiences, including art workshops, one-on-one sessions, and sensory activities tailored to the needs of patients. These activities provide patients and their families with a means to express themselves, reduce stress and anxiety, foster social connections, and find a sense of purpose and accomplishment. The inclusive and supportive environment allows participants of all ages and abilities to engage in meaningful activities that promote relaxation, self-expression, and social interaction. Clare Masterton, Trust & Foundations Manager at the Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice thanked the Trust, and said: "The Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust's donation will help provide art materials for our Creative Art Service which has the potential to enhance a sense of well-being and bring positive health benefits to those whom our artists work with." David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles Group, commented: "Art can be a such powerful tool for wellbeing, offering patients and their families a way to process their emotions, connect with others, and find a bit of joy during the most challenging times. "We are honoured to support The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice and the fantastic Creative Art Service they provide."

Family Business United is delighted to be partnering and supporting the launch of a new masterclass concept with Nick Mayhew and the team at Alembic Strategy to help individuals learn more about building a Flexibility Mindset and understand more about dealing with difficult conversations. The session is taking place online on September 4 from 8.30am for an hour and will offer guests plenty of takeaways and insights with Nick getting right into things, focussing on why a Flexibility Mindset is key to leadership success, your key areas for improvement and practical first steps. Nick will lead you through powerful methods and examples which you can apply for immediate success. Register now to book for an insightful new masterclass series with Nick Mayhew, the Founder and Managing Director of Alembic Strategy and it only costs the equivalent of a cost of a cup of coffee. As Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United adds, "Nick is passionate about the family business sector and helping leaders achieve their full potential, providing plenty of practical insights to help with personal development and addressing some of the difficult challenges associated with being a successful leader." "We are delighted to be working with Nick and the team at Alembic Strategy on this innovative approach by way of a masterclass and look forward to further collaborations going forward too." Building a Flexibility Mindset as a leader relates to your response to stress and pressure. Do you want to get better at dealing with difficult situations, decisions, events and feelings as a leader? Do you want to know how to manage the roller coaster ride? Do you want to feel more capable? Working on your Flexibility Mindset is a deeply researched way to increase what you can handle. The 6 elements are: Avoidance Acceptance Harnessing Commitment Experience Perspective These are an incredible combination for elevating your leading. This masterclass series is designed to help you navigate and handle the hard conversations of life with excellence. An expert in leading with a Flexibility Mindset, Nick will break down the concepts and provide a wide range of accessible techniques with clear objectives and measures, allowing you to expand your emotional range and capability. About Our Host - Nick Mayhew Nick is the Founder and Managing Director of Alembic. A sought after speaker, and leading facilitator and executive coach. Nick helps fix and improve broken relationships in family and founder led businesses. After a 20 year career as a senior equity partner and board member at a major accounting practice, Nick founded Alembic and for the last 9 years has helped hundreds of leaders and businesses transform and grow. He learned the power of bodywork for changing mindset and perspective at a very early age, brought up in a Tibetan Buddhist Centre, where he would go from the rugby pitch at a Welsh school home to Tai Chi and meditation practice. This provides the backdrop to a leadership development approach that draws deeply on his practical and academic knowledge of the body-brain change dynamic, most powerfully present in their conflict resolution facilitation "Burying the Dead Cats ™ " and coaching for a Flexible Mindset. Nick has an Msc in Neuroscience and Psychology of Mental Health and is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants. What previous participants say: A very inspirational way to start the day! (CTO) Wow! That was great! (Partner at a city law firm) Brilliant content! (MD - Family Business) The session welcomes you to join for the price of a coffee - £4.80 incl. VAT. The webinar will be conducted via Zoom, making it accessible and convenient for everyone. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an expert and expand your leadership. Register below to pay by card to receive a Zoom link via email to join the masterclass.

The Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust is pleased to announce a successful funding application from Volunteer Tutors Organisation Ltd (VTO). VTO has been awarded the sum of £6,200 to support their Learning Hubs in the Possilpark area of Glasgow. Established in 1974, gaining registered charity status in 1977, VTO provides educational support to children and young people most affected by the poverty-related attainment gap. VTO’s Learning Hubs focus on homework support, literacy and numeracy skills, confidence building, and motivation to learn. These Hubs are unique in that senior pupils from local high schools tutor primary school-aged children, fostering strong, supportive relationships that benefit both the tutors and the learners. The senior pupils, many of whom face economic challenges themselves, gain essential communication and planning skills, along with endorsements for further education or job applications. Kesson Wilson, Head of Fundraising at Volunteer Tutors Organisation, spoke about the impact of the donation, saying: “We wish to thank Allied Vehicles for their contribution to our Learning Hubs in Possilpark." "Their funding will allow us to provide one-to-one academic support to local primary aged children as well as volunteer opportunities to secondary pupils. The sessions provide the children and young people a chance to improve their literacy and numeracy skills, develop their confidence and reach their full potential.” Currently, VTO operates three Learning Hubs in the Possilpark area: Possilpark Hub: Partnering with the Health and Social Care Partnership, this hub supports 14 primary pupils with the help of 12 senior pupils and 4 adult volunteers. Saracen Street Primary: Located at Possilpark Parish Church, this hub benefits 10 primary pupils with support from 10 senior pupils and 1 adult volunteer. St Theresa’s Primary: Also held at Possilpark Parish Church, this hub aids 9 primary pupils, supported by 7 senior pupils and 4 adult volunteers. Each Learning Hub costs £6,200 per academic year to operate. As VTO celebrates its 50th year, the funds from the Trust will cover the running costs of one of the Hubs for a full academic year, ensuring the continuation of this essential service. David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating: “We are thrilled to support the Volunteer Tutors Organisation. Their dedication to bridging the educational gap for disadvantaged children is truly remarkable. This funding will help ensure that VTO can continue to make a positive difference in the lives of young people right here in Possilpark.”

HMG Paints Ltd, the UK’s largest independent paint manufacturer, has announced the launch of Hydrosol a new range of hybrid coatings designed for the metal fabrication marketplace. These innovative protective coatings bring together the superior performance of solvent-based paints with the environmental advantages of water-based products, allowing users the opportunity to reduce their VOC output without compromising in performance. The first product to launch in this range is Hydrosol QD Primer. The Hydrosol QD Primer is an alkyd-based, quick-drying primer designed for ultimate versatility and efficiency. It boasts outstanding adhesion, superior moisture resistance, and exceptional corrosion protection, thanks to the incorporation of modified Zinc Phosphate. Ideal for use on suitably prepared structural steel, chassis, and steel fabrications, this primer can be applied effortlessly using either roller, airless or conventional spray methods. Early adopters of Hydrosol QD Primer are already identifying several benefits including increased coverage compared to competitor products and improved efficiency in application. A key reason for this is volume solids of Hydrosol QD Primer which stands at 55% in comparison to approximately 40% for competitor equivalents. Paddy Dyson, Marketing Manager of HMG Paints commented: "Our new Hydrosol QD Primer represents a significant advancement in protective coatings and is a testament to the work done by our Research & Development team to bring innovations to the market." "This product not only meets the high-performance standards our customers expect from us, but also aligns with our commitment to environmental sustainability. It is the first piece of the jigsaw in our Hydrosol brand, with a variety of exciting products set to join this range in the near future." The second product set to soon join the range will be Hydrosol Compliant DTM, a Direct to Metal paint which users can apply directly to bare or primed metal surfaces. Being PG6/23 11 Compliant,the product is ideal as a single coat primer finish for use on stillages, skips, containers, agricultural and construction equipment and machinery. With lower VOCs in comparison to solvent based equivalent products and available in a range of colours including RAL & BS, this next product in the Hydrosol range will be the ideal choice for OEMs and refinishers.