Arden Dies is the UK's leading Die maker providing cutting and embossing tooling for the packaging industry and they took home the award for Northern Family Business of the Year 2024 before going on to take the National Manufacturing title at the prestigious Family Business of the Year Awards organised by Family Business United. The awards were presented at a gala evening in London where over 150 guests convened to celebrate the very best of British family firms. As Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United explains, “This is always a fantastic evening where the family business community comes together to celebrate the very best of British family firms. Family firms are the engine room of the national economy and these awards celebrate all of their achievements. All of our winners are fantastic examples of great British family firms and it is a real honour to host these awards and celebrate with them.” Arden Dies were worthy winners of these accolades. As Colleen Gostick, Chairman of award sponsors Buckles and one of the judges explains, "Our winner is a manufacturing business with over 180 staff, whose products out-perform those of its competitors due to their knowledge, the people that work for them and a desire to push boundaries in terms of creativity, innovation and sustainability." "Like many family firms, they are one of the largest employers locally and they recognise the responsibility that comes with this and they play a major part in supporting local causes and the community where they can." The judges recognised the efforts that Arden Dies are making to change the faces of manufacturing, taking steps to change the demographic of their workforce and trying to make manufacturing of interest to a broader pool of people. 2024 sees Arden Dies celebrate 60 years as a family business manufacturer, built on strong family values with their success down to the contribution of every single person who has played a part in their journey over this time. Ben Fowler, Managing Director of award sponsors Western Pension Solutions and a fellow judge added, "Arden dies are a great family business which impressed the judges in terms of their commitment to employee engagement, sustainability and succession planning." "Their foresight is truly progressive and the essence of family drive and commitment shines through which has helped the businesses generate a global profile." "Another great family business, founded back in 1964 by two brothers, one saw and a workbench in the cellar of the family home which has become the UK's leading die maker providing tooling to the packaging industry. Arden Dies are worthy winners of these awards," concludes Ben. As Martin Poynter, Managing Director of Arden Dies confirms, "The Arden Group is built on strong family values, and family is at the heart of how we operate. Not only is Arden a family owned business, but we have worked with generations of other families (siblings, sons and daughters), providing not only a workplace, but an extended family, so it's a real honour for us to be recognised in these National Family Business Awards." "From the Stockport cellar where it all began 60 years ago, to the global organisation we are today is an achievement that we are rightly proud of, and our success is testament to the hard work of every single person who has played their part in the Arden story."

Hundreds of runners are set to come under starter’s orders for one of Staffordshire’s longest running races. Up to 400 runners of all abilities are expected to take part in the JCB Lakeside 5 and Fun Run on Thursday, July 11th at 7.15pm. – with all entrants receiving a special commemorative medal. The event first started in 1983 when just 95 competitors took part – including Race Director Mick Grindey, 62 and former JCB employee Charles Bevan, 77, of Abbots Bromley. Mick and Charles have competed in every single one of the events since – and will be on the starting line again this year. Mick said: “The JCB Lakeside 5 and Fun Run has been a popular fixture in the local running calendar now for 41 years and it’s always a great event supported by runners from across Staffordshire and Derbyshire." “Entries are now open for the 2024 event and anyone wishing to enter should do it now as we have a limit of 400 spaces. Spectators are also very welcome to cheer the runners along the route and join us on the field afterwards where the popular ‘beer bus’ is making a welcome return to help quench everyone’s thirst afterwards. Food will also be available.” The five-mile JCB Lakeside 5 follows a five-mile route around the picturesque JCB World Headquarters and the Fun Run is over two miles. Entry to the main race for affiliated runners and JCB employees is £14.60, £16.60 for non-affiliated runners and £6.80 for the fun run. Proceeds will be donated to JCB’s £2 million NSPCC appeal to help support the charity’s work in Staffordshire. Entry to the event is via this link here .

Family-owned British luxury bed and components manufacturer, Harrison Spinks, has made key senior appointments to drive international sales and enhance its growth strategy across the group. In a move to strengthen sales and export growth for both the beds and components divisions at Harrison Spinks, the business has made significant new appointments and promotions. Lee Hinshaw will be joining the business in the role of Business Development Director – a new hybrid role designed to strengthen the international presence of both Harrison Spinks and Spinks. Based in Bangkok, Thailand, with over 30 years' experience in the industry, Lee will be responsible for driving growth in the Asia Pacific region for the company’s finished mattresses and components. Ian Owen has been promoted to Sales Director at Spinks. Ian will lead sales activity for the spring manufacturing division, developing the sales team and assisting its agents and distributors across the globe. James Noble has been promoted to Export Sales & Development Manager for Harrison Spinks with the remit to oversee growth and export sales. Finally, Geert Geerkens has recently joined Harrison Spinks to support James and the team as a Strategic Consultant to help deliver the company’s bed export strategy and grow mattress sales internationally. Having gained a wealth of experience working in the mattress industry throughout his career, his appointment will bolster the company’s export plans in Europe. Geert is currently president of the European Bedding Industries Association (EBIA), as well as Valumat, a Belgian organisation supporting the industry to collect and process discarded mattresses. Darren Marcangelo, Managing Director at Spinks, said: “This is an exciting phase for Spinks, with both Lee and Ian having the passion and expertise to drive and deliver international sales for the business. We have some exciting new customer opportunities along with new product innovations that will see Spinks at the forefront of innovation and sustainability for our industry." "I welcome Lee to the business and look forward to working closely with him, and congratulate Ian for his well-deserved promotion to Sales Director as he has ambitious ideas for growing our business overseas.” Spinks directly sells and supplies its unique patented components in domestic and international markets, including revolutionary glue-less fine-wire pocket springs, which are also used within the luxury mattresses of the company’s beds division at Harrison Spinks. Nick Booth, Managing Director at Harrison Spinks Beds, said: “We’re committed to investing internationally and expanding on a global scale, so this is an exciting opportunity to focus on, strengthening our team to meet the increased interest in our unique, responsibly made, luxury bed and mattress offering." “Our growth reflects the increasing global demand for innovative, high-quality beds and mattresses and we’re delighted to have made significant appointments as part of our evolved export strategy, gaining further international business opportunities and expediting our brand and its sustainable ethos into new markets.” The British values of both Harrison Spinks and Spinks have already enabled success in the global marketplace, with the business active in many countries across the world. This is evidenced by the company’s 2023 King’s Award for Enterprise win in International Trade, which sits alongside its two additional King’s Awards in Innovation and Sustainable Development.

Bad debts and payment disputes are a top cause of business insolvency, according to Purbeck Insurance Services, which has analysed personal guarantee insurance claims from small business directors, following insolvency. Failed acquisitions and not being close to business financials due to an over-reliance on accountants, were also major causes of business failure in the past year. Major causes of small business insolvencies revealed as political parties agree on urgent action on late payment: Bad debts and payment disputes key reasons for insolvency Key political parties concur on the need to tackle late payment 37% of loan applications were for working capital in Q1 2024 Solid steps can be taken to avoid insolvency pitfalls Personal guarantees can provide peace of mind for small business owners Todd Davison, MD of Purbeck Insurance Services said: “The major political parties agree tackling late payment of invoices should be a priority for any future Government. Late payment creates a vicious circle of debt down the supply chain and puts a stranglehold on small business growth." "Underlining the stress on small business finances that late payment can cause, in Quarter 1 2024, the main reason why small businesses applied for personal guarantee insurance (37% of applicants) was for a loan just to keep their business afloat.” According to Purbeck’s analysis, a common theme amongst directors claiming on their Personal Guarantee Insurance was also an overconcentration on one or more customers who were late payers. Todd Davison continues: “While we wait for the next Government to improve enforcement of the Prompt Payment Code, business owners can continue to tackle late payment themselves by carrying out customer due diligence, ensuring that they invoice promptly and correctly and keeping lines of communication open." “In acquisitions, firms window dressing their business to make it appear more secure than it can be common. Again, robust due diligence processes including arranging a financial audit, and scrutinising the validity of future orders is vital." “Finally, small businesses need to know that if their businesses does fail, a lender is not going to come knocking for the loan to be repaid from the director’s personal assets. This is where personal guarantee insurance plays such a valuable role. It’s not just there to pay out in a claim, it gives small businesses greater confidence to secure the finance they need.”

The team at a North Yorkshire farm shop and café are celebrating after their farm shop and café won a national family business award. Pickering’s Cedarbarn Farm Shop and Café won the Hospitality. Hotel and Leisure Award at the 14th National Family Business of the Year Awards that celebrate the best of British family businesses. Cedarbarn co-founder Mandy Avison said: “We have the best team at Cedarbarn, and this award is for them – every single one of our team of 50 deserves this award. I couldn’t be prouder.” The awards are organised by Family Business United. Founder and CEO, Paul Andrews said: "It is an absolute pleasure to organise these awards as a constant reminder and celebration of the important contribution that family firms make across the UK today, through the jobs they provide, the income they generate and the wealth they create. Family firms are also integral to the communities in which they operate the length and breadth of the nation.” Cedarbarn co-founders Mandy and Karl Avison were presented with their award at a ceremony at The Royal College of Physicians in London on 19th June. The Thornton Road business was also awarded Highly Commended in the Retail award. Cedarbarn Farm Shop and Café began as a small PYO strawberries operation from a caravan in 1995 and now is a thriving farm shop and café that sources a large percentage of its produce from its own farm and a neighbouring farm supplemented with local suppliers. As Paul concludes, "Cedarbarn were worthy winners of this award. They are a truly local family business which is a great example of diversification in practice. Their passion for family and what they do shone through in their submission and their business is clearly an asset for the local community and a hub to showcase local produce, much of which is supplied by other local family firms." David Twiddle of TWYD & Co presented the award on the night and was one of the judges for the awards this year, adding: "Cedarbarn is an example of what family businesses are all about – a heart warming submission, lovely organic growth and continued innovation. They are also proactively engaged in work on energy, waste reduction and sustainability, supporting local where they can and embracing the family aspect of their business in their marketing and social media presence." "A great Yorkshire business which is at the heart of the community and truly deserving of this award."

The family business community came together once more in London in the delightful surrounds of the beautiful medicine garden in the grounds of the Royal College of Physicians to celebrate the contribution that family firms make to the national economy and to crown the winners of the Family Business of the Year Awards 2024. What a night and what a fabulous celebration of the contribution of family businesses to the national economy. Thank you to everyone involved, the judges, the sponsors and above all the business that entered, our fabulous finalists and of course congratulations to the winners. Events like these are special and the evening had a palpable mix of excitement, anticipation and community – the essence of being part of a bigger community, the collective sense of pride in being a family business and recognition for some families of their endeavours over numerous generations. It was a great night and the fact that the sun shone as the day drew to a close helped to create a fantastic atmosphere too. Family businesses are the engine room of the UK economy and with 5 million family firms employing around 12 million people in all corners of the country they make a massive impact each and every day. Incomes are generated, jobs provided and wealth created but as one of the family members said to me last night, “That is just the tip of the iceberg. Family businesses care and want to be seen as doing the right thing, doing business the right way. It has been a pleasure to be involved with these awards. The atmosphere in the room was amazing, a real vibrancy, sense of belonging and comradery with plenty of pride, passion and emotion too." That is undoubtedly true and reflected in may of the submissions as well as the conversations taking place throughout the evening with family business members meeting like minded peers from a community steeped in history, heritage, purpose, values and integrity. The audience assembled and the winners were announced and celebrated. Photos taken. Speeches delivered, honest, simple but poignant and certainly heartfelt – celebrating not only those in the room but as representatives of family firms across the UK, recognising that it is the broader family engagement and the teams of people that work in the businesses that help to make the business magic too. "These awards were created to make families in business appreciate the significant impact they have, whether they are large or small, first generation or multigenerational and to recognise the collective importance they have to the economy and communities the length and breadth of the nation," adds Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United. "Doing business the right way is what they do. And do so well. Crowning the winners was great and it remains a pleasure and a privilege to run an organisation that has these businesses at our core, businesses that make a difference and have a real sense of purpose, community, a narrative and real authenticity. We have been delighted and somewhat overwhelmed, once more, by the response and impact that these awards have had and whilst celebrating the conclusion of the 2024 campaign, are already excited about what the future and 2025 Family Business of the Year Awards have in store," he concludes. Our Regional Winners For 2024: Yorkshire – Bagnalls North of England & Northern Ireland – Arden Dies East & East Anglia – KFE Midlands & Central – Landermeads London & South East – Furniture Village Scotland – Scot JCB South, South West & Wales – The George Bence Group Our Sector Winners For 2024: Manufacturing – Arden Dies Food & Drink – Dina Foods Professional Services – Matthew Douglas Limited Property & Construction – Bagnalls Transport & Logistics – Challenger Site Services Hospitality, Hotel & Leisure – Cedarbarn Farm Shop & Cafe Homes & Gardens – Brewers Decorator Centres Retail – Furniture Village Health & Welfare – Landermeads Our People’s Choice Winners For 2024: Yorkshire People’s Choice – Heck Food East & East Anglia People’s Choice – Source One Consulting Midlands & Central People’s Choice – Cleenol London & South East People’s Choice – Allan Reeder Ltd North & Northern Ireland People’s Choice – Dunsters Farm Scotland People’s Choice – Hattie's Autobody South, South West & Wales People’s Choice – Healthcare Matters National People’s Choice – Allan Reeder Ltd Our National Winners For 2024: Innovation - The Wilkins Group Sustainability – The John Good Group Entrepreneurship – The Pantry UK Ltd Positive Societal Impact - Quality Life UK Community Support & Involvement – Regal Food Products Group Plc Essence of Family Business – Dunsters Farm Ones to Watch – Lemongrove Productions and The Pizza Post Small Family Business of the Year – Gibsons SUPREME CHAMPIONS – BAGNALLS A great night that was capped off with the announcement of the Supreme Champion Family Business of the Year 2024, an accolade that was accepted on behalf of Bagnalls by Stephen Bagnall. As Paul continues, "Bagnalls is a fantastic business that deserves all the accolades that come with winning this title. They are an inspirational business, founded back in 1875 and will be celebrating 150 years as a family business in 2025." "Bagnalls is an incredible family business that have already done so much, in their sector doing what they do, for the communities in which they operate, and more broadly for the family business community as a whole." "In the words of the judges Bagnalls are deserving winners of the Supreme Champion award as they are: A family business with a rich heritage packed with incredible stories that demonstrate their success over the years A family firm with strong credentials, governance and family values at their core A brilliant business using their culture and scale to commit to supporting next generations A business with a fantastic culture and a great example of stewardship through the generations A family that cares and wants to do business the right way A truly great family business that is brilliant in what it does "They are without exception, a shining example of a great British family business with all the positive attributes in place. Proud of its heritage, committed to its values and its people with family members leading by example, not to mention the quality of their craftsmanship." "With a passion for painting since 1875 and a fifth generation leader who is immensely proud to be the current custodian of this family business, committed to working hard to provide an ongoing legacy befitting of his forefathers, Bagnalls are worthy winners of this accolade," adds James Trigg of headline sponsors and presenter of the award from Brooks Macdonald. As Stephen Bagnall, fifth generation Managing Director of Bagnalls adds: "I am immensely proud to receive this award, which is testament to the five generations of the Bagnalls family and its employees who have contributed so much to the company's past 149 years of success." "We continue to make great strides in becoming a company that people want to work for and customers want to do business with." "Bagnalls celebrates 150 years as a specialist painting and decorating company in 2025 and this award will be shared by each and every one of my colleagues as a thank you for their hard work, dedication and commitment to Bagnalls." "As we move 'together towards 150' I continue to be immensely proud to be the current custodian of this splendid family business and I will continue to work hard to provide a legacy befitting of my forefathers." These awards were established back in 2012 to celebrate family businesses and the contribution they make. Last night was certainly a great celebration and recognition of firms that are great ambassadors for the sector too. Family businesses are at the heart of what we do here at Family Business United. Congratulations go to all the finalists and of course the winners. Enjoy the celebrations! And finally a massive thank you to all of our judges, presenters and the FBU team for making it happen and to our award sponsors Western Pension Solutions, Birketts, Buckles, Forsters, Turcan Connell, TWYD & Co, Goodman Jones and Brooks Macdonald. We cannot wait to follow the next steps in the journey of your businesses and of course, return next year to announce the winners of the 2025 Family Business of the Year Awards too! If you want to find out more and be notified about the 2025 awards or want to find out more about becoming a judge or an award sponsor we would love to hear from you. Simply complete the contact us form at the bottom of the home page on our website here and we will be in touch. Check out the full gallery of images from a fabulous evening here:

Back in 2013, FBU compiled the first ever report into the oldest family businesses in Scotland and uncovered some real gems in the process. The oldest family firm in Scotland dates back to 1715, John White & Sons Limited, who in 2015 celebrated their Tercentenary. Scotland is awash with family firms and since producing the first report we have continued our research and add new firms to the online listing on a regular basis. Whilst the inaugural report was published in 2013, the updated list revealing the oldest family businesses in Scotland is below: Scotland's Oldest Family Firms John White & Son Limited (1715) Macnaughton Holdings Limited (1783) Montrose Rope and Sail (1789) Thomas Taylor (Bowls) Ltd (1796) Johnstons of Elgin (1797) J. Hewit & Sons Ltd (1806) Christies (Fochabers) Ltd (1820) James Jones & Sons Ltd (1838) Thomson's Coffee Roasters (1841) C&W Summers Glazing (1848) Stuart's of Buckhaven (1857) James Porter & Son (1858) Smith Anderson Group Ltd (1859) James Donaldson & Sons Ltd (1860) Gordon Timber (1862) James Walker (Leith) Ltd (1863) The Royal Burgh Bakery (1865) Glenfarclas (1865) The Denholm Group (1866) Baxters Food Group (1868) Kinloch Anderson (1868) Crieff Hydro Limited (1868) James Cordiner & Son Limited (1870) Mathieseons Bakery Limited (1872) JC Peacock & Co Ltd (1874) As Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United explains, "Just like countries all over the world, Scotland is awash with family firms making a huge impact not only on the Scottish economy, but further afield too." "All too often, family businesses are discredited for the contribution that they make and dismissed as small business but the inaugural report in 2013 and subsequent revisions goes a long way to disproving some of the myths surrounding family businesses, their ability to stand the test of time and their achievements in terms of size and impact too." "Family firms are the backbone of the Scottish economy and we have uncovered some real gems in compiling this list. Not only do they all contribute significantly to the economy in terms of employment, income generated and wealth created but they have a major impact on the communities in which they operate, as they have done for may years and across multiple generations of their families too." "These businesses have been around for generations and hopefully will remain as family businesses for many generations to come." In compiling the inaugural report the team at Family Business United used various means to make it as comprehensive and accurate as possible. However, due to the fact that there is no legal requirement to disclose the status of the underlying ownership in business it is not an easy process. We used our networks, connections at trade bodies and extensive desktop research to determine the oldest family firms in Scotland in 2013 but were not able to say unequivocally that there were not a few other hidden gems out there. From time to time another long-standing family firm is brought to our attention and after the necessary research and confirmations have been obtained, the business is added and the list updated. If you are aware of a family business that needs to be considered for inclusion then please do not hesitate to get in touch so that we can update the list accordingly.

Ahead of the United Nations’ 100-year anniversary in 2045, HSA Group – a family business and one of the largest multinational companies in the Middle East – has set out its commitment to supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals through its participation in the landmark VISION 2045 documentary series, hosted on Reuters Plus. Celebrating several decades of collective action through UN programmes, VISION 2045 will consist of a series of documentary films, hosted and distributed by Reuters, that illustrate how businesses, including HSA Group, are helping to lead sustainable action and drive social change through their business operations. HSA Group’s contribution - “Private Sector Action on the SDGs is Imperative” - focuses on how innovation and a commitment to sustainability creates opportunities to drive development, foster economic growth, empower vulnerable communities, and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable world for all. The series showcases the critical role the private sector plays in supporting social change, leveraging its expertise and capabilities to drive sustainable development and increase climate resilience. As Yemen’s largest company, HSA Group is playing a leading role in addressing climate challenges, recently coordinating with Yemen’s Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and Climate Change Unit (CCU) at COP28 to develop projects that promote and support climate change mitigation in Yemen. The Group is also improving social outcomes in Yemen, launching a joint school milk initiative with Tetra Pak in coordination with the Yemeni Ministry of Education and the World Food Programme (WFP) to address food security challenges for young people and encourage school attendance. HSA Group incorporates the principles of VISION 2045 in its broader sustainability strategy, which guides the company’s endeavours to deliver a positive impact across its operations through a combination of economic development initiatives, humanitarian programmes, and purpose-driven innovation that responds to the needs of the communities it serves. Nabil Hayel Saeed Anam, Managing Director – HSA Group, Yemen Region: “HSA Group is delighted to participate in the VISION 2045 initiative, which will bring together thought-provoking content from leaders and subject matter experts in sustainable development and social impact." “HSA Group looks forward to continuing to play a leading role in tackling climate challenges and generating long-term positive impact for the communities we serve around the world.” Watch our Vision 2045 campaign here on Reuters About HSA Group The Hayel Saeed Anam (HSA) Group was established in Yemen in 1938 by four brothers from the Saeed Anam family and is now one of the largest multinational conglomerates based in the Middle East, employing over 35,000 people across its operations. HSA Group remains a family-owned business and operates across various markets, including Yemen, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, and Africa. As a key player in global trade networks, HSA Group is the parent organisation for over 70 operating companies. The Group’s commercial activities include producing market-leading food and beverage brands, packaging, household goods and healthcare products, importing and manufacturing essential foodstuffs and commodities. In its work to support diverse development and humanitarian initiatives in the Middle East and beyond, HSA Group partners with UN agencies and humanitarian organisations, such as the WFP and WHO, to support the delivery of public health, nutrition and food security programmes in Yemen.

In 2024, GAP Hire Solutions proudly marks 55 years of unwavering dedication, innovation, and excellence in the industry. Since their inception in 1969, they have continuously set the standard for superior service and reliability in the hire solutions industry. Built On Trust For over five decades, GAP Hire Solutions have stood as a pillar of support for construction projects and industries across the nation, earning their trust every step of the way. Their commitment to providing top-quality equipment and personalised service has been the cornerstone of their success. Innovation At Every Turn From modest beginnings to becoming a leader in the hire solutions industry, they've embraced innovation at every turn. From day one, innovation has driven their success. They've embraced new technologies and approaches to meet the evolving needs of customers with precision and efficiency, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed. Gratitude & Growth As they celebrate this milestone, they extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been a part of the journey. As Iain Anderson, Joint Managing Director of GAP Hire Solutions adds, "To our loyal customers, dedicated team members, and valued stakeholders, thank you for your unwavering support." "Since our 50th celebrations in 2019, we have grown our turnover by 49% in just 5 years. This remarkable growth is a testament to the incredible work and dedication of everyone at GAP Hire Solutions." "Join us as we celebrate 55 years of excellence and toast to the many more ahead. Thank you for your support, partnership, and trust. Here's to the next chapter!"

Leading glass packaging company, Croxsons, has recently made changes to its management structure. Tracey Kendall, formerly business development manager - export, has been appointed as the new warehouse & logistics manager, while Justin Giddings, previously the area sales manager covering the southeast, has taken on the new role of commercial manager. Tracey, who has been an integral part of Croxsons for the past nine years, will now be responsible for overseeing the logistical operations within the UK. Her new role includes managing stock, determining optimal stock levels and understanding client requirements to ensure efficient stock management. The position reports directly to commercial director, George O’Brien. Tracey will still be taking and managing Export enquiries and accounts. With seven years of service at Croxsons, Justin will be focusing on evaluating and improving the current supply chain to enhance cost efficiency and operational effectiveness, ensuring the company's long-term strategic goals are met. He will also be identifying new initiatives to drive business growth, while continuing his sales responsibilities in the southeast. He will still report to sales director, Paul McGrane. Croxsons CEO, Tim Croxson, commented on the appointments: “We have an incredible team and are proud of our track record of staff retention. We are pleased that both Tracey and Justin have committed to the Croxsons family and look forward to our continued growth.” Croxsons is a trusted partner for both large and small brands worldwide, providing sustainable packaging solutions that empower food, drink, beauty and wellness brands to flourish.

The LEGO Group today officially opened its newest regional distribution centre (RDC) in Tessenderlo, Belgium. The opening marks an important milestone in the company’s strategy to expand its supply and distribution network to support long-term growth in the market. Its location in Belgium will service the company’s omnichannel customers in Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Great Britain, Ireland and northern France, as well as LEGO® Brand Retail Stores. LEGO factories in Nyíregyháza, Hungary and Kladno, Czech Republic will supply products to the centre, which will be operated by Kuehne+Nagel. Carsten Rasmussen, Chief Operations Officer of the LEGO Group, said: “We’re thrilled to celebrate the opening of our Belgium distribution centre. Expanding our supply and distribution network will ensure that we can continue to meet customer demand and bring learning through play to millions of children for years to come." "We’re grateful for the continued partnership we’ve had with Kuehne+Nagel and are happy to have them on board to operate the site.” Gianfranco Sgro, Executive Vice President Contract Logistics at Kuehne+Nagel said: “Today we celebrate the extension of a partnership that has continued for more than 12 years. Together with LEGO we live and embody values such as innovation, infinite possibilities of imagination and creation, continuous attention to the customer and the planet we live on." "We are particularly proud as from today we complete our range of offers with all our products (sea, air, road, B2C and B2B fulfillment centres) to guarantee an exceptional online and in-store experience.” Greater flexibility to reduce customer lead times, accommodate growth The distribution centre is the second in the company’s European distribution network, joining an existing centre in Jirny, Czech Republic. The centre is equipped to store up to 44,000 pallets and has an expected throughput of approximately 32,000 orders annually. It is co-located on the same campus as the company’s LEGO.com fulfilment centre, which will be stocked with product from the RDC. This increased capacity and agility will result in an average customer lead time reduction of up to two days for customers in scope. Operations have been designed with sustainability in mind as the distribution centre shares the same sustainability commitment as all LEGO operations to reduce the company’s absolute global carbon emissions by 37 percent by 2032. It has been built to BREEAM Excellent environmental standards, a third-party certification system that measures the sustainability performance of buildings. On-site solar panels and a wind turbine will generate significant direct renewable energy, while all heating will be provided through geo-thermal energy as part of the company’s efforts to minimise its environmental impact. The company will utilise the European Cargo Rail network to transport LEGO products from its factories, bringing an estimated savings of 2,000t CO2 per year compared with today’s standard use of road and truck Tessenderlo is one of many investments in the company’s manufacturing footprint. The opening of the Tessenderlo RDC is a meaningful milestone in the company’s strategy to increase flexibility and agility in its operations. The LEGO Group has also invested more than US $1B in two new state-of-the-art factories in Binh Duong, Vietnam and Virginia, U.S., on track to open in 2025 and 2027 respectively. Both of these factories will run on renewable energy and contribute to the local community though the creation of highly skilled jobs. The LEGO Group is additionally expanding four of its existing factories in Nyíregyháza, Hungary, Billund, Denmark, Jiaxing, China and Monterrey, Mexico to meet future demand and drive long-term growth. All expansions are currently in progress and on track to be completed within the coming years.

Sourcing the perfect ‘on-the-go’ Greek yogurt product is no longer a Herculean task thanks to the latest product range from Scotland’s largest independent dairy. Graham’s Family Dairy has launched Scotland's first Greek yogurt pouches in three flavours; natural, strawberry and honey. The product range, which is sweetener free and naturally high in protein, hits shelves as new data highlights the rise in popularity, with the value of pouch sales growing 12% in the past year [NIQ 52 w/e 25 February 2024]. The pouches will be produced in Nairn, with the family business investing more than £2m into its Highland production facility to produce the new pouches and key products within its protein range. The brand new product marks the dairy’s first foray into Greek yogurt, launching in stores from mid-June, with an initial rollout taking place across over 100 Lidl stores in Scotland this weekend, with a wider roll out across Sainsbury’s Scottish stores in late August. The 150g pouches contain up to 14g of natural protein and were designed to be the perfect snack for on-the-go families and health conscious shoppers looking for an indulgent snack. The demand for healthy and high protein alternatives continues to grow as reports show that two out of five consumers are interested in yogurts to replace traditional desserts*, with Greek yogurt widely recognised in the industry as being the biggest sub category within healthy yogurt. Robert Graham, Managing Director at Graham’s Family Dairy said: “We take pride in our family legacy and heritage, which from the offset has been driven by innovation. Our new Greek yogurt pouches have been specifically designed to appeal to the market after the huge success of our Protein 25 pouches, which fly off the shelves." "Alongside being a convenient and delicious natural dairy snack, our Greek pouches are naturally high in protein and sweetener free which sets them aside from many similar products on the market." “More and more, our consumers are looking for easy to ‘grab and go’, healthy, protein packed products - we’ve designed our Greek pouch and protein ranges to lend themselves to do just that. Regardless of convenience, one thing no one wants to compromise on is taste, and we’re really proud to have created a healthy, practical product without impacting on its flavour and rich and creamy texture.” Graham’s Family Dairy products rely on natural dairy goodness for great taste, using the finest ingredients and milk specially selected from family run Scottish farms in its Greek yogurt pouches and across its ranges. The family run business has grown through three generations and today 70% of households in Scotland and 30% of the UK’s households buy their home-grown products, making them Scotland’s No.1 dairy brand.