Business activity among UK SMEs has expanded at a solid rate throughout the first quarter of the year with the NatWest SME PMI Business Activity Index recording 52.6 in March. NatWest’s index is a key indicator of the health of the UK SME economy. A PMI reading over 50.0 indicates growth or expansion, while a reading under 50.0 suggests contraction. Key Findings: Recovery in overall UK SME output supported by renewed manufacturing sector expansion Service sector remains the main growth engine Spending on more energy efficient business processes is projected to rise at a fast rate among SMEs, with 18% planning to invest in the next year and 41% within five years Over half of UK SMEs plan to invest in EV infrastructure or have already done so The recovery in overall SME output levels was driven by improving order books, with new work increasing for the fourth month running in March. Leading the way, the services sector recorded the fastest upturn in business activity in March, recording 53.2, followed by the manufacturing sector, which recorded 51.4. SME construction output meanwhile near-stabilised in March at 49.6, which also represented an improved trend after stronger declines in activity in the second half of last year. In the latest survey, SMEs reported another sharp rise in their average cost burdens, especially those in the service economy, largely due to rising salary payments and transportation costs. However, the overall rate of input price inflation was the slowest since November 2023. Efforts to alleviate margin pressures nonetheless led to the fastest rise in prices charged by SMEs since June 2023. Business activity expectations remained upbeat in March, with SMEs confidence holding close to February's two-year high. Renewable Energy Investment Plans The NatWest Sustainable Business Tracker found that there was a rise in the proportion of SMEs that have already invested in renewable energy investment plans compared to the same period in 2023. UK SMEs were most likely to report plans to invest in more energy efficient business processes over the coming 12 months. Currently, 11% of small and medium-sized enterprises have already invested, a slight uptick from the 8% recorded during the same period last year. Additionally, 18% of SMEs expect to invest within the next 12 months and the longer-term outlook is much more upbeat with 41% intending to invest within five years. The survey also found that over half of UK SMEs plan to spend on EV infrastructure or have already done so. Of all six categories monitored by the survey, the use of electric vehicles (or installation of their charging points) recorded the largest proportion of SMEs that have previously invested (18%), with an additional 29% expecting to invest within the coming five years. Sebastian Burnside, NatWest Chief Economist, said: “Businesses have shown great resilience in the face of challenging market conditions as rocketing inflation and then rising interest rates made their mark. So, it’s good to see that firms are now reporting much more muted inflationary pressures at the same time as five months of growth in a row." "When it comes to job creation, the picture is more varied. Higher levels of SME employment largely reflects greater recruitment in the service economy, while hiring trends were much more subdued in manufacturing and construction. But optimism about future activity is widely shared with both services and manufacturing registering scores of above 70.” James Holian, Head of Business Banking at NatWest Group, said: “It’s really encouraging to see small businesses have had a strong start to the year and remain optimistic about their future growth. The recovery in output has been driven by improving order books, with new work increasing for the fourth month running in March. This suggests that falling inflation and hopes of lower interest rates is leading to an upturn in economic conditions, which is likely to support growth in the year ahead." “These findings show that over half of UK SMEs plan to spend on electric vehicle infrastructure or have already done so. As well as the environmental benefits, many businesses stand to benefit financially in the long term by transitioning their fleets." "In partnership with Diode, we are supporting our customers to access a tailored EV readiness assessment that breaks down the costs and potential return on investment of electric vehicles, so business owners can make the right decision for their individual circumstances.”

Independent family brewer Shepherd Neame has unveiled a new look for its popular Spitfire Lager. The refreshing British lager (4% ABV) now has an equally refreshing new visual identity incorporating a bespoke hand-drawn Spitfire logo emulating the vapour trails created by the iconic wartime aircraft which the beer takes its name from. It retains a Spitfire silhouette, along with a recrafted Shepherd Neame monogram inspired by its heritage as Britain’s oldest brewer, accompanied by the text ‘Kent Born’, drawing upon the provenance and quality of its centuries of brewing experience. In a first for the Faversham-based brewer and pub company, its Spitfire Lager keg lenses also have an eye-catching additional gold collar, representing the beer’s golden colour and further helping it stand out on the bar. Shepherd Neame has partnered with global creative partner, Thirst, to deliver the new look for the beer, part of the award-winning Spitfire collection which also includes Spitfire Amber and Golden Ale. Matt Burns, Executive Creative Director & Co-Founder at Thirst said: “Spitfire is a beer that not only represents the history of Britain, but also the modern credentials of the Shepherd Neame brand. It's not often a brief like this comes along and it provided Thirst with a perfect opportunity to celebrate the historic and the modern in equal measure." "With typography being the centrepiece of the new identity, we crafted a wordmark that felt fresh and interesting for a younger consumer, but with distinguishable hand finishes that offer the feeling of credible nostalgia. We evolved the colour palette to link directly to the open Kentish skies where the Spitfires once soared. The blue still feels proudly British yet through a modern lens.” Shepherd Neame Chief Executive Jonathan Neame said: “We are very proud to unveil this exciting new look for Spitfire Lager, offering a fresh, contemporary celebration of its iconic British namesake alongside the unique brewing heritage of our Kent homeland.”

Despite one of the wettest starts to the year on record customers are starting to plan for brighter days with HydroPro Garden Paint from HMG Paints. The product is set to build on the success of HMG Paints previous exterior coatings which have proved extremely successful since the pandemic. 2024 also sees two new vibrant colours enter the colour palette for HMG Paints. The first of the new colours is Spring Yellow, which is sure to brighten up any garden no matter the weather. Cherry Blossom Pink is another bold colour to join the range and is proving popular in early product sales. With new colours also comes new uses, the new HydroPro Garden Paint is ideal as a fence and shed paint but can also be used on terracotta pots and concrete, making it the perfect choice for use across the whole garden. “We’re really excited to see where and how people use HydroPro Garden Paint” added Paddy Dyson, HMG Paints Marketing Manager. “We’ve already seen on social media people making the most of the new colours and some very vibrant garden fences, sheds and pots. Summer 2024 is set to be very colourful.” HydroPro Garden Paint is water based and low VOC making it a perfect choice for consumers looking to refresh their garden ahead of the summer. The product can be applied by brush, roller and even spray meaning it’s also ideal for commercial products. The new containers for HydroPro Garden Paint are made with Post-Consumer Recycled material that can be widely recycled and then reprocessed into a resin, reducing the environmental impact for the consumers. The HydroPro Garden Paint range is available to purchase via a growing list of HMG stockists or direct from HMG via shop.hmgpaint.com/products/hydropro-garden-paint . The full range includes popular colours such as Chartwell Green, Slate, Duck Egg Blue and Walnut amongst others. Available in 5 litres, customers can paint up to 7 standard fence panel sides with one tub of HydroPro Garden Paint. HMG have ensured that the product is easy to apply meaning that anyone can have a weather resistant substrate with an excellent finish no matter their skill. No matter the weather one thing that is guaranteed is the advice and support of the HMG Paints team. The full range of HMG Paints products is available to be viewed online at www.hmgpaint.com , all products are made in Manchester and are Made in Britain accredited.

EG Group is pleased to announce the appointment of John Carey as CEO and President of EG America, effective from 1 October 2023, to drive forward its successful growth strategy in the US. John brings significant experience of operating global businesses and a track record of delivering high-quality returns. He has previously held senior executive positions including at BP plc and ADNOC Distribution, where as deputy CEO, he led its IPO on the Abu Dhabi stock exchange in 2018. During his 10-year career at BP John’s senior roles included CEO of Castrol's global B2B business encompassing the aviation, industrial, marine and energy businesses, and the same position leading its Liquefied Petroleum Gas business, including operations in the US for both companies. In addition, John already has detailed knowledge of EG Group’s operations having been a non-executive member of the Board since November 2020. As a result of this appointment, John will become an executive director on the Board, and EG Group will commence a process to identify and appoint a new non-executive director to join the Board in due course. For EG Group, the US is a core strategic market with multiple opportunities to grow organically through the continued delivery of its proven convenience retail, foodservice and fuel offering. John will succeed George Fournier, who stepped back as EG America President in the fourth quarter of last year for personal reasons, before returning in the spring to support the business. The interim EG America President, Nick Unkovic, will revert to his role as Chief Legal and Administrative Officer of EG America. Zuber Issa, CBE co-founder and co-CEO of EG Group, commented: “John is the ideal leader to drive forward EG America’s proven strategy. He has an excellent track record and knowledge of the sector, as well as a detailed understanding of the Group’s ambitious plans for EG America. We look forward to working closely with John in his new role as we continue to execute our growth strategy with the support of US colleagues. I would like to sincerely thank Nick and George for their continued contribution and support.” John Carey, CEO of EG America, commented: “EG Group is a great business, which I have learned first-hand. EG America has a strong platform and a clear strategy to drive growth at its market-leading sites through enhancing its convenience retail and foodservice offering across its much-loved banners. It will be a privilege for me to lead EG America and I very much look forward to meeting colleagues and key stakeholders. I can’t wait to get started.” EG America is the Group’s largest market, both by revenue and sites, reflecting how it owns and operates 1,645 convenience store and fuel retail sites across 10 banners in 30 states: Cumberland Farms, Certified Oil, Fastrac, Kwik Shop, Loaf N’ Jug, Minit Mart, Quik Stop, Sprint, Tom Thumb, and Turkey Hill. In 2022, EG America delivered total revenue of $10.2bn. EG Group launched in the US in 2018, when it acquired Kroger’s 762-site convenience store business, giving it the platform to grow strongly both organically and through acquisitions.

Family business owners often see their business as “the additional family member at the dining room table.” Preparing a family charter for a family business is a valuable process as it opens up the lines of communication and ensures that the family have an honest and robust conversation about their relationship as business owners and family members. Family Values Running a family business involves many complexities, and not least of these is the family itself. Whether or not they are aware of it, every family and every family business has a charter. Most remain unspoken, but strongly affect how the family business is run. Any thoughts along the lines of “In this family we always…” indicate that there are unwritten rules or family values at play. The problem with unspoken rules or family values is that what individual family members assume to be true may not be shared by other family members and indeed may not be true at all. Family values may include love, mutual support, respect, openness, and honesty. Business values may include a commitment to growth, excellence, and customer service. The family charter melds these two sometimes conflicting sets of values into a single set of values for the family business. For example, the family values may include sustainability. Does this mean that any investments must be ‘green’ too? A Family Charter A family charter typically covers: Who is a family member? Does it include step-children, in-laws and cohabitees? What if some family members want to be involved in the business but others want to exclude them? In what circumstances will family members be removed from employment, directorship or even lose their shares? Can shares be passed to spouses and are there restrictions on what happens to those shares on a separation or divorce? Are family members required to enter into pre-nuptial or post-nuptial agreements? Can a family member be fired? How is that dealt with? How does the family communicate its needs and opinions to the Board in a constructive way? How does the family handle conflict? What roles do different family members play within the family business? Succession planning for the family business. A family charter sits alongside (and does not replace) the business’ articles of association, shareholders’ agreements, and directors’ service agreements. It is generally not legally binding. Regular reviews ensure a family charter remains relevant and keeps the next generation engaged. Running a business is hard; a family business even more so where rivalries and family dynamics are at play. Preparing a family charter melds the values of the family into the business. Its value lies as much in the process and the honest discussion in preparing the family charter as it does in the final document itself. Including family members who are both actively involved as well as those who are not, helps keep the family at peace. Sooner is better when it comes to creating a family charter. It is not a discussion that should be left until the founder’s final years or loss of mental capacity, as by then it is too late. The Birketts View The next generation often see things differently to the older generation; both views need to be taken into account in running the family business. A neutral adviser outside the family, with a wealth of relevant experience to draw upon, is well placed to navigate difficult family dynamics. Different family members across different generations have their own needs and objectives. strong disagreements are inevitable in all human relationships. Without a family charter, the family business risks becoming a pawn in the wider conflict within the family. Contact the team at Birketts via their website here to find out more

Here at Family Business United we are delighted to announce the launch of our inaugural Global Family Business Think Tank Report which summarises the thoughts of over 100 leading family business owners, experts and advisers from around the world on specific topics that will help to shape family business discussions and strategies going forward including thoughts on board diversity, future roles of women in family business, purpose, values, storytelling and governance to name a few. Some of the key findings include: 97% of respondents believe that we will see more women family business leaders in the next few years Only 26% of respondents feel that family businesses make the most of their narrative Only 26% of respondents feel that family business boards are sufficiently - diverse 97% of respondents feel that family businesses need to change the way that they engage with the next generation 83% do not feel that there is sufficient support from governments or policy makers As well as the top level statistics that highlight areas that need to be on the family business agenda, we have included quotes from some of the global participants and a number of articles too. We hope that the report enables conversations to take place to bring the family business community together to further innovate, drive changes as a force for good and helps provide further support for families in business to continue to flourish for generations to come.

Full Moon®, the brand known for its human-grade dog food and jerky treats, announced the launch of its Artisanal Sausage Slices, giving pets the fresh from the deli experience they deserve. Created for devoted pet owners who prioritize their own health, wellness and quality food, these snackable treats will help them do the same for their furry friends. Like all Full Moon® products, Artisanal Sausage Slices are made using 100-percent human-grade ingredients sourced responsibly from family farms, meaning they look, smell, and taste just like the food you would cook in your own kitchen. Now available in two delicious recipes: Chicken Apple Sausage: Juicy apple morsels pair nicely with cage free chicken for a savory yet sweet treat. Added bonus: Each soft and chewy sausage piece is sliced to perfection for ultimate snackability! Turkey Cranberry Sausage: It’s fall all year round with these tender turkey sausage slices. Whole cranberries and bits of sweet potato take center stage for a bite-size savory treat packed with BIG flavor. Don’t be surprised if your dog gobbles these right up! Ryan Perdue, founder of Full Moon Pet and fourth-generation Perdue family member said: “We know that using whole, real ingredients provide the best taste and quality possible for our pets. With our new Artisanal line, we’re bringing the ‘fresh from the deli’ experience with soft and smoky sausage slices prepared with antioxidant-rich fruit and vegetable inclusions that are a perfect bite for small and bigger dogs alike.” Full Moon® Artisanal Sausage Slices are now available in 12oz for an SRP of $13.99 and are the first 100% human-grade sausage you can shop in-store. Full Moon® Artisanal Sausage Slices can be found in Albertson’s, HEB, Hannaford, Food Lion and on Amazon.Pet parents can also purchase the new offering at FullMoonPet.com . About Full Moon Pet: Established in 2011 by founder and devoted dog dad Ryan Perdue, we believe that our dogs deserve food that is just as good as the food we make for ourselves. This commitment drives our choices every step of the way, from how we raise our animals, to the ingredients we choose, to the kitchens we cook in. Full Moon treats are proudly made in the United States using regionally-sourced, 100 percent human-grade ingredients: from the USDA-approved, farm-raised meats to the other natural ingredients you'd feed yourself. More importantly, we never use artificial preservatives, colors or flavors, and our products are all free from corn, wheat, soy, glycerin, and other fillers.

Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon that affects individuals across various professions and industries. However, its impact can be particularly pronounced in family businesses, where familial dynamics and the pressure to carry on a legacy can exacerbate feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy. So why is there such a complex relationship between imposter syndrome and family businesses and what are some of the challenges it presents and strategies to address it? Understanding Imposter Syndrome Imposter syndrome is characterised by persistent self-doubt and the fear of being exposed as a fraud, despite evidence of competence and success. It often manifests as feelings of unworthiness and a sense that one's achievements are undeserved. In the context of family businesses, imposter syndrome can take on a unique dimension because of the very nature of family businesses, their dynamics and the individuals involved. The Family Business Dynamic Family businesses are built on a foundation of tradition, heritage, and often a strong sense of duty to preserve and build upon what previous generations have created. This familial pressure can create an environment where imposter syndrome is more likely to take root. Family members, especially those joining the business as the next generation, may struggle to assert themselves and their own identities, feeling that they can never live up to the achievements of their predecessors. Challenges Of Imposter Syndrome In Family Businesses Comparison to Family Elders : Imposter syndrome can be exacerbated when family members are constantly compared to previous generations. The weight of familial expectations can make it difficult for individuals to see their unique contributions and accomplishments. Navigating Succession : The transition of leadership and decision-making within family businesses can be particularly challenging for those dealing with imposter syndrome. The fear of making mistakes or being judged by family members can hinder effective succession planning and ongoing day-to-day business operations. Decision-Making Paralysis : Those suffering from imposter syndrome may find it difficult to make confident decisions, fearing they will be exposed as incapable. This hesitation can impact the growth and success of the business. External Perception : The perception of being part of a family business can sometimes lead to others attributing an individual's success solely to their family ties rather than their skills and efforts, further exacerbating imposter syndrome. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Family Businesses There are a number of steps that can be taken to deal with imposter syndrome, including: Seeking Professional Help : Family members dealing with imposter syndrome can benefit from therapy or coaching to address and manage their feelings of self-doubt. Open Communication : Encouraging open and honest conversations within the family about imposter syndrome can help alleviate its effects and foster a supportive environment. Embracing Individuality : Recognise that each family member brings unique skills, perspectives, and ideas to the business. Embracing individuality can help mitigate the fear of not measuring up to family expectations. Setting Realistic Goals : Establish clear, achievable goals and expectations to reduce the pressure on family members. Celebrate small successes along the way. Focusing on Personal Growth : Encourage continuous learning and skill development to build confidence and competence, irrespective of familial expectations. Imposter syndrome is a common issue in many professional settings, and family businesses are not immune to its effects. Understanding the interplay between imposter syndrome and familial dynamics is crucial for both the well-being of family members and the success of the business. By addressing these challenges openly and adopting strategies to overcome imposter syndrome, family businesses can thrive and grow while maintaining their unique legacies.

In response to customer demand, frozen food distributor Central Foods has re-introduced a gluten-free chicken Kiev to its range for food service operators. Central Foods MD Gordon Lauder says: “Chicken is the most popular meat served in the UK, and with the continued growth in demand for gluten-free options we just had to bring back our popular Golden Valley Foods gluten-free chicken Kiev." “Not only are the Kievs great for serving to coeliac customers and those who avoid gluten, they can also be served to anyone who just enjoys a tasty chicken Kiev. Made from succulent, whole breast meat with a creamy garlic and parsley filling, our gluten-free Chicken Kiev is a classic dish loved by many and taps into the retro/nostalgia trend currently influencing menus. Packed in small case sizes of just ten Kievs, providing lower up-front costs and less storage space, we know our customers will welcome the return of the Golden Valley Foods gluten-free chicken Kiev to our range.” Other products available from Central Foods in the Golden Valley Foods free-from range include gluten-free breaded chicken chunks, gluten-free breaded chicken goujons and southern fried gluten-free chicken goujons. Central Foods is a leading UK food service distributor, founded more than 25 years ago. The company is a catering partner across the whole food service sector, supplying to hotels, restaurants, bars, universities, schools, pubs, care homes, garden centres, leisure outlets and more. It currently sells to over 180 independent wholesalers, as well as larger national and regional wholesalers. For more information about Central Foods visit here .

Fifth generation, family-owned luxury bed and components manufacturer, Harrison Spinks, has announced a raft of sustainably-focussed initiatives in its new Impact Report from both the main beds business and its components manufacturing company to further improve the planet whilst enriching the local environment and enhancing colleagues and communities. The business, which employs around 500 people and is already one of the largest growers of hemp in the UK, will increase its flax crop from 20 to 120 acres to replace cotton – not only is the crop more suitable for the British climate, there is no requirement for pesticides or irrigation for it to grow. Meanwhile its Yorkshire-based spring manufacturing business has introduced a patent-pending, pocket coiling machine that reduces energy consumption by 60%, as well as minimising raw materials needed in the process. Manufacturing production within the beds division at the 180-year-old company has moved to a four-day working week with longer production shift patterns after identifying the benefits of an improved work life balance – which they achieved without a reduction in overall output – and central operations has moved to a 4.5-day week, leading to increased productivity and reduced direct and indirect emissions. Harrison Spinks' partnership with Scottish luxury accessories manufacturer Alex Begg is now enabling the business to upcycle clean, high-quality cashmere offcuts to replace the virgin cashmere wool in its mattress fillings, also leading to lower transport emissions. Last year alone, the company’s hemp crop absorbed over 3,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions – which is equal to all of its annual Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions. Further changes to improve its production, CO2 emissions, and local biodiversity have been announced within the newly-launched Impact Report. These include: Further investment in weaving its own mattress ticking fabric from naturally fire-retardant wool, covering 100% of production needs and saving 28 tonnes of fire-retardant chemicals being used each year. Creating its own pocket springs through efficient wire-drawing processes that save 330,000kWh of energy each year. Becoming members of the UN Global Compact – the world’s largest corporate sustainability programme. The business is also boosting the local natural habitat, shifting from overseas carbon offsetting and investing into programmes in Britain, such as the Wild Ingleborough initiative led by Yorkshire Wildlife Trust to help restore the natural habitat and combat climate change. Harrison Spinks has committed to becoming Nature Net Positive across all operations and as part of this the two farms are working towards being fully organic by September 2025. It is also planting 2,750 metres of native hedgerows in Yorkshire to support animal welfare and encourage wildlife, while 47 acres of Ings grassland on the farm is left unstocked in spring to allow ground nesting. Furthermore, a higher stewardship grant from Natural England has enabled 33 acres of wildflower, bird, and butterfly margins to be created and maintained. Simon Spinks, Chairman at Harrison Spinks, said: “Our Impact Report details how we’ve adapted our business in the last year and the fundamental commitments we’re adopting for the future to make beds and components in the most responsible way possible." “We are a business that’s been recognised with seven King’s and Queen’s Awards, including two for Sustainable Development, so we understand the importance of playing our part in making the world happier and healthier." “We’re making some big commitments, going from 20 to 120 acres of flax crop production – allowing us to replace cotton with Yorkshire-grown luxury mattress fillings – and we have a patent pending on a coil manufacturing machine which reduces energy consumption by 60%." “This machine was designed and built by us here in Leeds and we aim to share this technology in our sector and beyond to allow others to benefit from these energy savings." “From using renewable energy at our Leeds manufacturing site to our partnership with children’s bed charity Zarach, providing them with 20 mattresses every month to give every head a bed, we want to make sure we’re supporting local communities and the environment." “Owning a farm gives us a unique and unbreakable connection to nature, and that’s why we’ve taken more steps to monitor exactly how we’re affecting the local environment, from making sure we lower emissions, right down to encouraging rare bird species onto our farms." “We have been refining our manufacturing processes to be more responsible, and we’re now working on industry-leading ways to repurpose clean waste back into production and looking further ahead to re-purpose our mattress components.” Harrison Spinks is the only UK bed manufacturer to have its own farms, blend its own natural filling layers in-house, weave its own naturally fire-retardant mattress fabric and manufacture 95%* of its mattress components in-house. It has 180 acres of arable land where it grows hemp and flax, and a further 200 acres of grassland where sheep are raised. Further commitments Harrison Spinks is making include: Investing in Solar PV technology to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, which is projected to create 400,000 kWh of energy per year. Digitising the wire-drawing process within its components division to reduce CO2 by 40%. Working towards becoming Net Zero by 2050 under the net zero strategy approved by the Science Based Targets initiative. Planning to decrease carbon emissions from direct operations by 95% within 10 years To read the full Impact Report, please visit here. *By weight – Harrison Spinks manufactures its own mattress components in-house, equating to 95% of the total mattress by weight.

Douglas & Grahame, a family-owned men’s fashion house based in Carrickfergus is marking its first 100 years in business. Chaired by Donald Finlay and now led by sons Adam and Michael Finlay, the company which employs 124, is aiming to achieve its target of £50m turnover in the next five years. Douglas & Grahame designs all its garments in the modern Carrickfergus plant and is aiming to further develop its portfolio of brands. These include Remus Uomo, Daniel Grahame, DG's Drifter, 1880 CLUB and others. Managing director Adam Finlay says the centenary is an opportunity to re-establish the firm’s position at the heart of the fashion sector. “We have built tremendous foundations over our long history and have managed a strong recovery post-covid resulting in record turnover levels last year in excess of £30m,” says Mr Finlay. “We are an ambitious team and we are setting our sights on achieving £50m turnover in the next five years. The company says it is now pursuing all routes to market to achieve that growth across all territories of the UK and Ireland. Particular areas of focus include retail partnerships such as branded shop-in-shops, franchises, concessions and national chain retailers. The development of Douglas and Grahame’s online presence is also a priority. Douglas & Grahame brands are sold in over 400 independent stores and department stores across the UK and Ireland. The firm also has dedicated showrooms in Belfast, Dublin, London and Manchester. Mr Finlay says: “We have spent the last 100 years in the menswear trade, which means 100 years of fabric, of needle and thread and dedication to our industry." “From our humble beginnings selling fabrics to the tailors of Belfast, to the design and production of readymade garments to the building of brands – we are now one of the UK and Ireland's leading menswear fashion houses.” The firm is planning to mark its centenary with a series of profile-building events culminating in October this year with a gala evening for past and present associates and friends of the company.

Dunsters Farm is proud to announce a three-year sponsorship deal with Bury FC, the beloved fan-owned team, situated in the same area as our humble beginnings. The partnership, extending until the 2025/26 season, will entail our sponsorship of the esteemed ‘Starkies Bar’, located within the historic Gigg Lane ground. Bury FC began its incredible comeback, after the club was saved by its own fans, after falling into administration in 2019. Dunsters Farm are committed to making a positive impact in the community, and this collaboration underscores our commitment to serving the area we proudly call home. Bury FC aligns seamlessly with our core values – with a community-centric ethos that resonates deeply with us here at Dunsters. Not only is it an organisation ‘for the community, by the community’, but the football club also works as a local hub, supporting people with its foodbank, community spaces for vulnerable adult training, as well as the Kidzone area for families who need it. Tom Mathew, our Commercial Director said of the exciting new partnership: “We’re delighted to support Bury FC, not only were we inspired by the recent developments at the club, but we also identified with their journey. Just like us, Bury FC boasts a rich local heritage and serves as a force for good within the community, a principle that has driven our business since its inception.” Tom and Hannah, Directors and third generation members of the family business, also have a personal connection to the club. Attending matches as youngsters with their grandfather, and Dunsters Farm founder, Les Ratcliffe – a keen Bury fan, who was also awarded an MBE for his charitable work locally. “My first memories of attending Gigg lane are with my Grandad, and his legacy looms large in how we do business. No matter how much Dunsters Farm has progressed, we are still focussed on being a force for good in our community – it’s in our DNA. Whether it be by feeding our local schools with quality produce, or supporting community groups like this one." "This partnership means we can support a like-minded organisation and continue to do good nearby – something our grandfather would be proud of.”