Arco, the UK’s leading safety provider, has once again been awarded a gold medal for sustainability by the world’s largest and most trusted provider of business sustainability ratings. After thorough examination of its sustainability performance by independent experts at EcoVadis, Arco has retained its “Gold” status for 2024, improving on its overall score since the company’s last assessment. The gold rating means Arco is ranked in the top 5 per cent of more than 120,000 companies assessed by EcoVadis. EcoVadis singled out Arco's leadership on environmental sustainability as 'outstanding' in comparison with its peers. Arco’s sustainability initiatives over the past year include the launch of a new Responsible hi-visibility clothing range, as well as the installation of more than 2,300 solar panels on the roof of the company’s National Distribution Centre in Hull. Jim Harbidge, head of sustainability at Arco, said: “At Arco, we continually review and improve practices across the business to ensure we deliver best practice in sustainability." “We are extremely proud of this award and what it means for our products, those who make them and our customers who share our aims and values. We still aspire to achieve the ‘Platinum’ award and will continue to find new ways to differentiate ourselves as a responsible choice of safety partner.” EcoVadis measures sustainability performance across the four themes of environment, labour and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement. Its rating methodology measures the quality of a company’s sustainability management system through three management pillars of policies, actions, and results.  A team of international sustainability experts analyse and cross-check companies’ data in order to create reliable ratings, considering each company’s industry, size and geographic location. EcoVadis reviews its performance rating approach each year in support of best practice in sustainability. Find out how Arco is taking action for a safer tomorrow .

Following several significant new client wins, independent insurance broking and risk management specialist, TL Dallas, has bolstered its London team with the appointment of two corporate account executives. Michael Jobson and Ross Bullard are seasoned insurance professionals with 36 years combined industry experience and both are certified with the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII). Michael said: “After working across loss recovery, personal lines, commercial account handling and working with high net-worth clients for almost 18 years, I then became a specialist in the health and care sector, which faces unique challenges and has very individual requirements when it comes to insurance." “Throughout my 24-year career I always preferred working for independent insurance brokers, and that was one of the main reasons for my move to TL Dallas. I had heard great things about the family and employee-owned firm, and as TL Dallas had recently set up a dedicated health and care division, it made it the ideal move." “With complete freedom of thought and action, which is not always the case at some of the corporates, I can focus on delivering the very best service for clients. To be working with a dedicated team of professionals who all have the same goal of providing the best cover for the best possible price, and always responding swiftly and effectively to claims via the in-house team at TL Dallas, made the role hugely appealing.” Ross said: “I started out in the insurance industry 12 years ago in motor insurance, working for a broker in Southampton, before moving to another broker to specialise in insurance for parish and town councils. I spent eight years as an account executive in the local government sector at this firm, which was sold twice during that period." “Joining a stable firm like TL Dallas is a fantastic opportunity for me, and I plan to build on my network of contacts in my home county of Norfolk and beyond to introduce the array of services that TL Dallas has to offer. Being a broker is a varied and interesting job and I particularly like working with different insurers on complex cases. Every client is unique and supporting them with their insurance and risk management needs is extremely satisfying.” Polly Staveley, managing director at TL Dallas, said: “This double appointment reflects the significant growth the team is delivering in our city office. As we continue to build on our client base in the South of England, we also plan to recruit at least two more team members with the right ethos and experience over the next year or two to support our growth plans.” The TL Dallas London office is located the heart of the city at 14 Devonshire Square. With a 15-strong team in the city supplying commercial insurance products to businesses operating in every industry sector, TL Dallas also offers a variety of specialist polices, including books, collectables and demolition insurance, as well as having access to the wider group for private clients, trade credit insurance and independent financial services. About TL Dallas TL Dallas was founded in 1919 and is one of the UK's leading independent insurance broking and risk management companies providing a full range of commercial and personal insurance services. The fourth-generation family firm is owned by its management and team. Group managing director, Polly Staveley, and group director, Mackenzie Dallas, are both great grandchildren of the company’s founder, Thomas Lessels Dallas OBE. TL Dallas currently employs more than 165 people in its Bradford headquarters and across offices in Belfast, Cumbria, Edinburgh, Falkirk, Glasgow, Holmfirth, Skipton, Lincoln, London, Shetland and Stockport. The company is one of the founding members of UNA – the National Alliance of Independent Brokers.

In the bustling landscape of the UK's business sector, family-owned enterprises stand out as pillars of strength, not just economically but also socially. These businesses, often passed down through generations, play a significant role in shaping the local communities they operate in throughout the nation. Preserving Tradition & Heritage Family businesses are often deeply rooted in tradition and heritage, carrying forward legacies that span decades. In a rapidly changing world, these businesses serve as guardians of cultural values and practices, preserving a sense of identity that resonates with the local community. By upholding time-honoured practices and values, family businesses contribute to the cultural richness of their surroundings, fostering a sense of continuity and belonging among residents. Fostering Personal Relationships One of the defining features of family businesses is the emphasis on personal relationships. Unlike larger corporations, family-run enterprises prioritise building close connections with their employees, customers, and suppliers. This personalised approach creates a sense of trust and loyalty within the community, strengthening social bonds and promoting a collaborative environment. In an era of digital transactions and faceless corporations, the human touch offered by family businesses is a refreshing and valuable asset. Supporting Local Economies Beyond their cultural and social contributions, family businesses play a crucial role in supporting local economies. By sourcing goods and services from nearby suppliers, employing local residents, and reinvesting profits back into the community, these businesses stimulate economic growth at a grassroots level. The ripple effect of this support extends beyond the business itself, benefiting other local businesses and creating a cycle of prosperity that uplifts the entire community. Commitment To Sustainability & Long-Term Growth Family businesses are often characterised by a strong sense of stewardship and a focus on sustainability. With a view towards long-term growth rather than short-term gains, these businesses prioritise responsible practices that benefit both the environment and the community. By investing in sustainable initiatives, such as reducing waste, energy conservation, and community engagement, family businesses demonstrate their commitment to creating a positive impact that extends far beyond their immediate operations. Building Resilient Communities In times of crisis or uncertainty, family businesses often serve as anchors of stability within their communities, something that very much came to the fore during the pandemic. Their ability to adapt quickly, make nimble decisions, and prioritise the well-being of their employees and customers can make a significant difference during challenging times. Whether it's providing support to local charities, sponsoring local sports teams, volunteering, offering employment opportunities during economic downturns, or simply being a reliable presence in the neighbourhood, family businesses contribute to building resilient and thriving communities. Undeniably, the impact of family businesses in the UK goes far beyond profit margins and market share. These businesses are integral to the social, cultural, and economic well-being of the communities they call home. By preserving tradition, fostering relationships, supporting local economies, prioritising sustainability, and building resilience, family businesses play a vital role in shaping a prosperous and harmonious society. Next time you encounter a family business in your community, take a moment to appreciate the rich tapestry of benefits they bring to the fabric of our society. In the diverse landscape of the UK's business ecosystem, family businesses emerge as community builders, contributing not just economically but also socially and culturally. Their commitment to tradition, personal relationships, local economies, sustainability, and resilience makes them invaluable assets to the communities they serve, enriching the lives of residents and stakeholders alike.

Vellayan Subbiah, Executive Vice-Chairman of Tube Investments of India (TII) and Chairman of Cholamandalam (Chola) Investment and Finance Co. Ltd., was named the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year™ 2024 at an award ceremony held in Monaco's Salle des Etoiles. Vellayan was selected from among nearly 5,000 program participants that included 51 winners across 47 countries and jurisdictions competing for the global title. He is the fourth winner from India in the award's 24-year history. Vellayan is a transformative business leader with an ambition to change the trajectory of his country, his companies and his people. His professional journey, which began as an engineer and then a strategic consultant, shifted towards entrepreneurship when he started taking over leadership roles in his family's business nearly 15 years ago. Vellayan first successfully navigated Chola through the fallout of a troubled partnership amid a global recession, ultimately becoming the company's Chairman and growing its market capitalization 60x over the course his tenure. Starting in 2018, he took on leadership of TII, a 70-year-old manufacturing company, and began to transform the entire business through investment reallocation and acquisitions. Since taking over he's helped TII's share price grow 13x. TII's subsidiary, CG Power has just commenced building India's first outsourced semiconductor and test facility. Beyond his great business success, Vellayan has been unwavering in his commitment to sustainability and community welfare, driving initiatives that have propelled his companies towards significant environmental and social milestones and set new standards for corporate responsibility. Carmine Di Sibio, EY Global Chairman and CEO, says: "Vellayan possesses all of the qualities one looks for in an entrepreneur. The impressive growth of the businesses he's led have been remarkable, but his story goes far beyond numbers." "His humble and personable approach to leadership and his philosophy of enabling others to 'enter a better life' are the embodiment of what it means to be EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year. He also has an exemplary track record on giving back through education scholarships, health innovations and environmental stewardship. Congratulations to Vellayan, a truly deserving world winner." Vellayan Subbiah, Executive Vice-Chairman of Tube Investments of India (TII) and Chairman of Cholamandalam (Chola) Investment and Finance Co. Ltd., says: "I am deeply honored and grateful to be recognized as the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year. As part of a fourth-generation family business, the spirit of entrepreneurship runs deep within me, and I continue to be equally inspired by those who came before and those who follow." "I'm steadfast in my belief that by approaching challenges as opportunities and committing ourselves to a path of self-improvement, there's no limit to what we can achieve. Thanks to my incredible colleagues who have made it all possible and I hope to further the legacy of past winners of this great award by continuing to elevate others along the way throughout my entrepreneurial journey." The EY organization hosts the annual World Entrepreneur of the Year event to celebrate the accomplishments of visionary leaders who are transforming industries, growing the economy and answering the call to address global challenges. The annual gathering brings together founders, CEOs and business leaders for a series of networking opportunities and workshops, culminating with the winning announcement. The EY World Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 was chosen by an independent panel of judges against four criteria: entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, growth and impact. This year's panel included a diverse and esteemed group of entrepreneurs from all over the world, chaired for the second consecutive year by Hernan Kazah, Co-founder and Managing Partner, Kaszek Ventures.

In many family businesses around the world, one fundamental element stands out as a driving force behind long-term success: empathy. In businesses where relationships, legacy, and tradition combine and relationships can be complex, the practice of empathy can be the cornerstone that sustains and propels these businesses forward. For many of these businesses empathy is not just a soft skill but a strategic tool necessary for the enduring prosperity of the family firm. Empathy in a family business context goes beyond just understanding the market or industry trends; it involves grasping the intricate human dynamics at play within the family unit and the business itself. By fostering empathy among family members, conflicts can be resolved more effectively, communication improved, and trust strengthened. This heightened emotional intelligence can lead to smoother decision-making processes and a more harmonious work environment. Furthermore, at the heart of every family business are the relationships that bind its members together. Empathy cultivates understanding, patience, and compassion, essential ingredients for nurturing these relationships. When family members feel heard, valued, and supported, trust flourishes, creating a solid foundation for collaboration and innovation within the business. This trust extends not only to family members but also to employees, clients, and stakeholders, fostering a culture of mutual respect and integrity. It is this that for many actually defines the very essence of what family business is all about. Empathy also plays a critical role in shaping the interactions between the family business and its customers. By putting themselves in the shoes of their clients, family businesses can better understand their needs, desires, and pain points. This empathetic approach enables them to tailor their products or services to meet customer expectations more effectively, leading to higher satisfaction levels and long-term loyalty. In a competitive market, the ability to empathise with customers can be a significant differentiator for family businesses seeking to stand out. Conflict is inevitable in any family business, given the nature of personal and professional relationships. However, empathy can serve as a powerful tool in resolving conflicts constructively. By approaching disagreements with understanding and empathy, family members can navigate challenging situations with empathy, finding mutually beneficial solutions and fostering an environment conducive to innovation and growth. The ability to adapt to change is paramount for long-term success. Family businesses that practice empathy are more attuned to the needs of their stakeholders and better equipped to anticipate shifts in the market. By embracing change with empathy, these businesses can pivot effectively, seize new opportunities, and stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive environment. Ten reasons why empathy is crucial for the long-term success of family businesses: Strengthened Relationships : Empathy helps build strong, trusting relationships among family members, essential for a harmonious working environment. Conflict Resolution : Understanding each other's perspectives and emotions can lead to more effective and amicable resolution of conflicts, which are common in family businesses. Enhanced Communication : Empathy fosters open and honest communication, ensuring that all members feel heard and valued. Employee Satisfaction : Demonstrating empathy can lead to higher levels of employee satisfaction and loyalty, which is vital for retaining talented non-family employees. People want to feel that their voices are being heard. Customer Relations : Empathetic leadership often translates into better customer service, as empathetic leaders are more likely to understand and meet customer needs effectively. Adaptability and Innovation : An empathetic environment encourages collaboration and innovation, as team members feel safe to share ideas and take risks. Succession Planning : Empathy is crucial in succession planning, ensuring that transitions are smooth and that successors are well-prepared and supported. Work-Life Balance : Understanding and respecting the personal needs and boundaries of family members and staff help maintain a healthy work-life balance, reducing burnout and increasing productivity. Cultural and Value Alignment : Empathy helps in aligning the business culture and values, which is vital for long-term cohesion and sustainability. Emotional Intelligence : Leaders with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to handle the complexities of family dynamics, making more informed and compassionate decisions. Empathy is not just a moral virtue; it is a strategic imperative for family businesses looking to thrive in the long run. By fostering empathy within the family unit, nurturing relationships, enhancing customer experience, resolving conflicts, and embracing change, family businesses can create a culture of empathy that fuels their success and sustains their legacy for generations to come. In a world where human connection is more important than ever, empathy reigns as the key to unlocking the full potential of family businesses worldwide. In family businesses, empathy emerges as a powerful force that drives sustainable success and harmonious relationships. By recognising the value of empathy and incorporating it into their business practices, family enterprises can create a cohesive environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and long-term prosperity. For many family firms, the transformative power of empathy can be seen as a guiding principle for a brighter future.

Establishing boundaries is a cornerstone for the enduring success of family businesses, serving as a vital mechanism for navigating the complex interplay between personal relationships and professional responsibilities. These boundaries provide much-needed role clarity, ensuring that each family member understands their specific duties and can be held accountable. This clarity is essential in preventing overlaps and confusion, fostering a more structured and efficient operation, especially given the very nature of family dynamics and the various roles that family members have to play. Professionalism within a family business is often a delicate balance. Boundaries help maintain this professionalism by promoting decisions based on the business’s best interests rather than familial ties. This objectivity is crucial in preventing nepotism, which can otherwise breed resentment and inefficiency, thus allowing the business to operate on a fair and equitable basis. Conflict resolution is another critical area where boundaries prove invaluable. Family businesses are uniquely challenged by the intersection of personal and professional lives, often leading to conflicts that are difficult to navigate. Clear boundaries separate these spheres, enabling conflicts to be addressed through established business processes rather than being muddled by personal dynamics. This separation is key to preserving both family harmony and the integrity of the business. Sustainability and growth hinge significantly on a culture of meritocracy and competence, which well-defined boundaries help cultivate. By setting clear expectations and performance metrics, family businesses can ensure that promotions and opportunities are based on merit. This meritocratic approach not only drives growth but also ensures the business is led by the most capable individuals, preparing it for future challenges. Additionally, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is critical for the well-being of family members involved in the business. Without clear boundaries, work-related stress can easily permeate personal relationships, leading to burnout and strained dynamics. Boundaries ensure family members can contribute effectively to the business while enjoying quality time with loved ones, thus safeguarding personal well-being alongside professional success. Succession planning, a pivotal aspect of long-term success, also benefits from well-defined boundaries. Effective succession involves grooming the next generation based on skills and potential, not just familial connections. Clear boundaries ensure this process is transparent and fair, facilitating a smooth leadership transition and the ongoing success of the business. Governance and legal compliance are further areas bolstered by boundaries. They enable the establishment of governance structures like boards and advisory committees, providing essential oversight and strategic guidance. This structured approach helps navigate complex legal landscapes, mitigating risks associated with non-compliance and ensuring the business adheres to regulatory requirements. In essence, boundaries in a family business are about much more than preventing conflicts or ensuring operational smoothness; they lay the foundation for long-term success. By balancing personal and professional interests, fostering fairness and competence, and preparing for sustainable growth and leadership transitions, boundaries ensure that family businesses can thrive across generations while preserving both family unity and business excellence.

Two projects completed by global engineering steel specialist, William Hare Group, have been recognised with prestigious Tekla BIM Awards. The London-based works at 40 Leadenhall Street and Maggie’s at The Royal Free Hospital were named among the winners of this year’s UK awards and will now go through to compete at the global finals later this autumn. As a leader in engineering software, Tekla’s awards recognise the very best projects to have utilised its Building Information Modelling technology to support the design process through state-of-the-art computer-generated models. William Hare Group, which continues to play a key role in the supply of steel solutions for major London construction projects, won the public vote for the 40 Leadenhall Street building, while Maggie’s at The Royal Free Hospital was named as the public projects winner. Described as resembling a skyscraper in the fantasy comic world of Batman’s Gotham City, 40 Leadenhall Street is one of the largest buildings to have ever received planning permission in the City of London. The £225m scheme, which saw William Hare collaborate with Mace, WSP, Make and Focchi, includes a stepped design cascading down towards the River Thames and is seen as a ‘destination office’ that can entice workers to switch back from home-working post-Covid. Judges’ comments included: “This project was impressive, because of its sheer scale. So much detail went into the design of this 34-storey steel frame superstructure, effectively using BIM for complex curved structural elements." “This elegant high-rise structure is a very striking design with a tonne of character, and has transformed the London Skyline." Maggie’s at The Royal Free Hospital was a smaller job in size, but was still highly regarded by the judges for its impressive use of technology to overcome complex design issues. Working with Sir Robert McAlpine, Expedition, Magma Architecture and Studio Libeskind, the £8m project was made possible through charitable donations of time and materials. Situated in the grounds of the Royal Free hospital in London, the newest Maggie’s cancer support centre showcases a custom raking curved facade, distinctive external fins, and a secluded rooftop garden and pavilion. Its complexity demanded a more integrated approach than usual, including an enhanced use of the 3D resources available within Tekla software.   William Hare Group Board Director, Matthew Nesbit, comments: “Tekla’s BIM technology was crucial to us in the design and delivery process. The Maggie’s project was a special one for William Hare as it was charitable in nature; having the opportunity to contribute so strongly to the support of anyone with cancer or their families has been an invaluable opportunity for the team involved.” William Hare Group was established in 1945 and provides value-engineered steel solutions to some of the world’s most innovative and sustainable construction projects. A family-owned and run business, it has a turnover of c£300 million and employs 2,000 people worldwide.

The Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust is proud to announce the allocation of funding to three remarkable community projects: SENSORIAL, CREATE Paisley, and The DASH Club. These organisations serve individuals with unique and additional support needs in their communities. SENSORIAL has been awarded £1,500 to continue their ‘KIWI Sensory Art & Play Club’. This free after-school club caters to children with complex special needs in Sighthill, North Glasgow, an area facing significant socio-economic challenges. The club provides a safe, sensory-rich environment where children can explore and create with the support of their parents, carers, and art tutors. Normally operating during term time in the hours after school, this funding ensures the continuation of the service through the summer months, when schools are closed. Consuelo Servan, SENSORIAL Director, expressed her gratitude: "This award comes at a crucial moment for our project. The funding will allow us to continue our sensory after-school activities through the summer." "These activities are vital for the development and well-being of the young people we serve, providing them with engaging, hands-on experiences that stimulate their senses and foster their cognitive, social, and emotional growth. We are excited about the positive impact this will have on our community and are committed to making the most of this opportunity." CREATE Paisley has been granted £1,150 to support their summer holiday programme, Go CREATE. This initiative is an extension of their core programme, CREATE Opportunities, which focuses on enhancing the mental well-being of young people in Renfrewshire through creative engagement. The Go CREATE programme will provide a variety of holiday-themed activities and day trips, offering vital support during the school summer holidays to young people facing poverty, social isolation, and deprivation. Lisa Doherty, Development & Operations Manager at CREATE Paisley, shared her excitement: "We are absolutely delighted to have Allied Vehicles' support for our summer programme, Go CREATE. This generous contribution will make a significant difference in providing a creative and enriching experience for the young people we support." The DASH Club, based in the Possilpoint Community Centre, North Glasgow, received £5,000 to expand their Sunday outings programme for young people with complex disabilities. The club offers a safe and friendly environment where young people can engage in social and recreational activities, reducing isolation and improving health and well-being. The additional funding will allow the club to take teenagers with complex support needs out on weekends, providing them with opportunities to have fun and feel part of the wider community. Mary Cuttle, Project Manager at The DASH Club, expressed her gratitude: "This grant from Allied Vehicles will enable us to take teenagers with high support needs out on the weekends to have fun with their friends, and to feel part of the wider community." "Many thanks from the DASH Club, its service users, and their families for funding our Sunday outings programme - it will make a huge difference to our young people." Gerry Facenna, owner and founder of Allied Vehicles Group, commented on the awards: "At Allied Vehicles, we believe in giving back to the community and making a positive impact, and we are pleased to support these outstanding organisations. Each one plays a crucial role in their community, providing essential services and enriching the lives of many young people with additional and complex support requirements.”

Arkell’s Brewery, one of only twenty-eight independent family brewers left in the UK, is celebrating the hard work and dedication of their brew team after scooping a trio of awards in recent competitions. Haze Pale Ale and Malthouse Craft Lager were awarded Gold and Bronze, respectively, at the SIBA South West Independent Beer Awards, and Kingsdown Ale bottled beer received Gold in the South West Taste of the West Awards. Haze is the brewery’s first vegan & gluten-free beer, described as a 4% ABV pale ale with a tropical fruit nose and a tropical fruit and mango flavour. Receiving Gold in the Keg Session Pale Ale category at the SIBA (Society of Independent Brewers and Associates) South West Independent Beer Awards, Alex Arkell, Head Brewer commented “It couldn’t be better feedback on our brand-new beer, straight in with a Gold for its first ever award.” Alex continued “We are equally delighted that our Malthouse Craft Lager has been recognised with Bronze in the Keg Session Lager category. It’s a fantastic award for our newly rebranded Malthouse, and reconfirms that the lager is as good as we think it is!” "Malthouse is noted for being a 4.2% ABV, handmade, refreshing, characterful English lager, brewed using local barley. Alex explained, “Unlike many lagers, we like to slow ferment Malthouse for up to a month, creating a softer, cleaner flavour with a satisfying fullness in the mouth. After this, rather than pasteurising and cooking the aromas, we gently triple micro filter the beer to lock in the thirst-quenching flavour.” The SIBA South West Independent Beer Awards, which took place at MaltingsFest in Newton Abbot, highlight the very best beers from a huge range of styles, strengths, and flavours, including traditional bitters, stouts, modern hazy IPAs, and Pale Ales. Judged by beer experts, experienced beer judges, and fellow brewers from other regions, they are seen as the ‘brewers’ choice awards’ in the UK. Arkell’s also received an award from The Taste of the West Awards programme, which has been promoting and supporting the South West food and drink industry for over 30 years. They are regarded as a benchmark for excellence across the whole South West region. Kingsdown Ale, one of the brewery’s long-standing brews, was successful in the Taste of The West product Awards 2024, achieving Gold for the bottled beer. The 4.8% ABV dark ale is a luscious, deep, fruit forward strong bitter with a superb chestnut colour, and smooth aftertaste. Already an award-winning beer, Alex Arkell remarked “It’s fantastic to see the hard work of the brew team recognized again. With a combined length of service in the team of over one hundred years, they always aim to craft exceptional beers that reflect our heritage and unwavering commitment to quality, while exploring innovative ways to keep up with changing trends." "This trio of awards celebrates the culmination of the hard work, passion, and dedication of Arkell’s brew team. Cheers to them.” For more information on Arkell’s hand crafted range of beers, visit their website here

St Austell Brewery, the South West’s leading independent brewer and pub company, has reported ‘strong’ financial growth in the 52-week period to 31st December 2023. Despite challenging trading conditions for the hospitality industry, the company grew its underlying operating profit by 15% (£13.2m) and achieved another year of record turnover (£229.5m). Will Michelmore, Non-Executive Chairman, St Austell Brewery, said: “I am pleased to report that St Austell Brewery has once again achieved record turnover, but importantly, this increase in sales has also been converted into improved operating profit." “We are very proud of these results given the challenges that the company and wider sector continues to face. Costs have increased significantly during this financial year - particularly on food and labour - while the cost-of-living crisis has continued to reduce levels of disposable income and change consumer behaviours." “Despite the challenging trading environment, demand for our beers and the offer in our pubs has remained strong. We continue to be optimistic about our long-term prospects and remain confident that we have the leadership and focused strategy that will ensure the company’s continued growth and future success.” Kevin Georgel, Chief Executive, St Austell Brewery, said: “2023 was a year in which we made significant progress against our ambition to release the full potential of the business." "We have continued to invest in our people and our high-quality pub estate, whilst future-proofing our beer brands and drinks portfolio. As a result of this continued investment, and the contribution of our dedicated and talented teams, I am confident that we are delivering great experiences for our customers all year round, and this is generating strong profit growth." “Throughout the year, inflation reduced from the peak of 2022, however cost challenges in our sector continued. Considering these sustained headwinds, we are pleased to report a 15% increase in profitability, in addition to delivering record revenues for a second consecutive year." “These results are testament to our all of our teams as well as our tenanted business partners. I would like to take this opportunity to thank them all for their continued hard work and support." “With the cost of living continuing to impact people across the country, we remain committed to delivering excellent value. We are, first and foremost, an experiential business and it is our ambition to exceed the expectations of every guest, whether they’re visiting one of our pubs or drinking one of our beers." “Our financial performance compares strongly with the market, and we remain a profitable, strongly cash-generative business with a clear strategic direction. We are focused on continued growth, harnessing the momentum we’ve built and diversifying our offer - where appropriate - to ensure that the business evolves positively and remains fit for the future.”

In recent years, the concept of family offices has seen exponential growth, offering a unique approach to managing the affairs of wealthy families, especially those with entrepreneurial endeavours. These private wealth management entities have evolved to become key players in supporting entrepreneurial families in navigating the complexities of wealth preservation, strategic investments, and legacy planning. Understanding The Purpose Of Family Offices Family offices serve as bespoke financial management entities dedicated to overseeing the comprehensive affairs of high-net-worth families. From financial planning and investment management to estate planning and philanthropic initiatives, family offices provide a holistic approach tailored to the specific needs and goals of each family. By centralising financial services and decision-making processes, family offices aim to streamline operations and maximise long-term financial success. Empowering Entrepreneurial Families For entrepreneurial families, the dynamic nature of their business ventures requires a specialised approach to wealth management. Family offices play a crucial role in providing personalised financial solutions that align with the unique challenges and opportunities faced by entrepreneurial families. By offering strategic guidance on business investments, risk management, and succession planning, family offices enable entrepreneurial families to protect and grow their wealth across generations. The Integration Of Business And Personal Affairs One of the key advantages of family offices for entrepreneurial families is the seamless integration of business and personal financial matters. By coordinating business interests with personal wealth management strategies, family offices ensure alignment between the family's entrepreneurial vision and their overall financial objectives. This integrated approach fosters synergy and continuity, allowing entrepreneurial families to achieve both business success and personal wealth preservation. Tailored Services For Long-Term Success Family offices go beyond standard wealth management services by providing customised solutions that address the evolving needs of entrepreneurial families. Whether it involves optimising tax efficiency, diversifying investment portfolios, or adapting to changing market conditions, family offices offer proactive financial planning strategies that promote long-term success and sustainability for entrepreneurial families and their enterprises. Their role continues to evolve but for many the family office affords the opportunity to manage family interests more broadly in terms of travel, reputational ma Nurturing A Legacy Of Success Entrepreneurial families often strive to create a lasting legacy that transcends financial prosperity. Family offices play a pivotal role in nurturing this legacy by facilitating intergenerational wealth transfer and fostering a culture of shared values and vision within the family. Through strategic planning and governance structures, family offices help entrepreneurial families preserve their heritage while empowering future generations to carry forward their entrepreneurial spirit. As the landscape of wealth management continues to evolve, family offices have emerged as indispensable partners for entrepreneurial families seeking comprehensive financial solutions tailored to their unique circumstances. By combining financial expertise with personalised services, family offices empower entrepreneurial families to navigate the complexities of wealth management with confidence and clarity. With their focus on long-term success and legacy preservation, family offices serve as valuable allies in supporting the entrepreneurial endeavours of affluent families across generations. In a rapidly changing economic landscape, the role of family offices in supporting entrepreneurial families cannot be understated. By providing personalised financial services, strategic guidance, and a holistic approach to wealth management, family offices empower entrepreneurial families to achieve sustainable success and build a lasting legacy.

Tickets are now available for this year’s Hendy Motor Fest with fun for all the family at Thruxton Motor Circuit on Sunday July 28th – and entry is free for everyone. Hendy Motor Fest is the new name for Hendy Performance Day. After three incredibly successful years it’s evolving into a family-friendly event with entertainment for all ages. Last year’s event attracted more than 8,000 people and organisers are planning even more attractions to ensure Hendy Motor Fest is bigger and better than ever before. There will still be lots of cars, plenty of performance vehicles, entertainment on the track from precision driver Paul Swift and a dedicated EV zone with Hendy partner Myenergi – but this year there will be more activities for kids, more live music, more food outlets, and heritage vehicles from Hendy Group. The Kids Zone will have an inflatable village and a face painter and this year there will also be an arts and crafts area. Vehicle displays will include not only performance cars but a variety of new cars and vans together with a trip down memory lane as Hendy Group, which is celebrating 165 years in business in 2024, showcases some highlights from its rich history. Club stands will be displaying their prized cars with this area offering visitors the opportunity to connect with fellow car lovers. There will also be trade stands with a variety of suppliers showcasing everything from accessories to motoring upgrades. Hendy Group chief executive Paul Hendy said: “This year the focus is on providing a free packed day out for all the family. There will still be plenty to entertain the car enthusiasts with stands from all the manufacturers we represent together with car club displays and we’re pleased to welcome back Paul Swift and his amazing stunt driving shows. “But this year we hope the expansion of activities for all ages and our live music line-up will really put this event on the calendar for all families looking for a free day out in the summer holidays.” New for 2024 is the dedicated EV zone in partnership with Myenergi which will offer everyone the opportunity to learn more about the future of motoring from Hendy and Myenergi who will be on hand to answer all your questions and show you some of the latest models available. Tickets are now available for car enthusiasts and families and can be ordered online here and are free for everyone.