One of Scotland’s leading hospitality groups Buzzworks has relaunched its pioneering initiative to provide a boost to local charities in the areas which it operates. The unique quarterly pro-social bonus scheme has once again rolled out across all 19 of Buzzworks’ venues, with the top four performing sites taking a share of £1,000 to gift to any registered charity of its choice. First launched in April 2017, the returning Buzzworks pro-social bonus has already helped over 12 charities across Scotland, ranging from The Royal Hospital for Sick Children to the Ayrshire Hospice. The latest winners were announced this week, as Scotts Troon, Scotts Largs, The Treehouse in Ayr and Thirty Knots in South Queensferry beat off stiff competition to take the cash prizes for their chosen charities. Scotts Troon took top prize and chose to gift its winning sum to Cash for Kids. Second place Scotts Largs presented Crosshouse Children’s Fund with their donation and The Treehouse in Ayr gifted their prize to Kyle Academy Children’s Appeal. The final beneficiary was Queensferry Parish Church Food Bank, chosen by the team at Thirty Knots, South Queensferry. To be in with a chance of winning the pro-social bonus, each Buzzworks venue is scored at the end of every month based on various factors including sales, customer service and mystery shoppers. Nicola Watt, Buzzworks Head of People, said: “We are proud to bring back the pro-social bonus and relaunch this scheme at Buzzworks, which we believe was the first of its kind within the hospitality industry back in 2017." “The pro-social bonus is a way of us giving back and rewarding the hard work and dedication of our employees, whilst supporting the communities in which we operate." “By offering the choice of charity to the individual winning venues, this ensures our people and the communities we work in come first." “All of the team pulled together to try and win for their selected charities and judging was difficult; however, there were four clear winners and congratulations is in order for each of the successful venues.” Buzzworks has established itself as an industry leader in Scotland’s hospitality sector through its culinary excellence and aspirational dining and entertainment experiences at its stylish brands: Scotts, House, Lido, Vic’s & The Vine, The Duke, Thirty Knots, The Bridge Inn, The Fox and Herringbone.

Sturgess Motor Group of Leicester are delighted to announce their newly formed relationship with Chinese Electric Vehicle manufacturer BYD. The 5th Generation family business, established in 1897 has opened a new sales and service facility for the BYD brand at its landmark site on the Aylestone Road, Leicester, located within walking distance of the Leicester Tigers rugby ground and Leicester City’s King Power stadium. Company Chairman, Mr Chris Sturgess said, “BYD is a new name in the automotive sector but their vast experience with battery manufacturing has given them a significant head start in bringing Electric Vehicles to the market.” Chris, along with his brother Barney are 4th generation members of the Sturgess family to work in the car industry. “There is little doubt that over the 126 years since our Great Grandfather Walter E Sturgess established the Company, the automotive business has changed dramatically and the introduction of electric vehicles is the next chapter in a vastly evolving industry. This new relationship is extremely exciting and we are delighted to be partnered with a manufacturer that is so far ahead in terms of battery technology and how it will help deliver a great ownership experience to the BYD driver.” The BYD range currently has 3 models, the 5 door Dolphin, Atto 3 mid-size SUV and the recently launched Seal sports saloon. Chris commented, “This is just the start of the BYD product line-up for the UK and there will be more to come in 2024 and beyond. We have put our sales staff through some intensive EV training to make sure the advice they offer is absolutely right for someone considering a BYD electric vehicle.”

Graham’s Family Dairy has significantly expanded its product range in over 50 Spinneys stores across the UAE, in response to growing demand for quality dairy and high-protein products. Graham’s Family Dairy, founded in 1939 in Stirlingshire, started supplying Spinneys in the United Arab Emirates with home-grown produce in August 2023, and in only six months the renowned UAE supermarket chain has added 11 new product listings, which will hit the shelves this month. The family-run business supplies award-winning products to 55 Spinneys stores across the United Arab Emirates, as well as the 15 Waitrose stores in the UAE that are also part of the Spinneys business. Established over six decades ago, Spinneys has successfully evolved into one of the country’s leading supermarket brands today, continually placing emphasis on innovation and quality produce and being the go-to retailer for quality products. While a wide range of dairy products are on offer, high-protein yoghurts are among the best performing, which mirrors an international trend in high-protein food and drink product consumption, with Protein 25 pots and pouches proving to be the best seller. Robert Graham, Graham’s Family Dairy Managing Director, said: “Working with an exceptional business across the globe is not only something we are very proud of, but it is testament to our Grandpa who founded Graham’s Family Dairy 85 years ago - who always had an eye for innovation. For the first time on record we saw our protein products outperform sales of conventional milk and sales of Protein 25 pouches increased by 800 per cent last year." “Mirroring this trend we are seeing here in the UK, our first 12 Protein 25 pots and pouches that launched in Spinneys in August of last year performed extremely well and have continued to grow which led to Spinneys working with us to launch another 12 Graham’s lines in their stores across the UAE and another four to launch later in February." “It gives an incredibly strong range and brand presence in the UAE with Spinneys and we are excited and proud to be working and moving forward with such a fantastic business that also shares our values of innovation and quality.” In 2017, Graham’s Family Dairy Protein 22 products took the top spot at the world’s largest annual food industry exhibition, winning the ‘Best Dairy Innovation Award’ at the Gulfood Innovation Awards which are held annually in Dubai. The 2024 event, held at Dubai World Trade Centre, will run from 19-23 February and Graham’s Family Dairy will be showcasing its award-winning Scottish produce. Gulfood 2024 is expected to attract over 5,000 exhibiting brands and over 100,000 trade visitors. Paul Crawford, Spinneys Commercial Manager said: “The launch of Graham’s Family Dairy products has played a pivotal role in driving the growth of the functional health dairy category, which has seen a remarkable surge of over 60 per cent compared to last year. This success reaffirms our belief in offering high-quality, health-focused options that resonate with our customer’s evolving needs.” “At Spinneys, our commitment is unwavering: we strive to continually excite our customers with new, innovative and convenient health products that are always on trend. That’s precisely why our partnership with Graham’s Family Dairy is a perfect fit for us. Our businesses share a natural synergy, united in our dedication to promoting an attainable, healthy-eating lifestyle. As we look to the future, we hope to continue to strengthen our partnership with the launch of further products.” The latest additions to Spinneys include Graham’s Family Dairy innovative Confectionery Protein 22 pots in four delicious dessert flavours - Stracciatella, Chocolate Caramel, Lemon Cheesecake and Salted Caramel. Additionally, Skyr Icelandic-style yoghurt - in Natural, Superberry, Strawberry, Vanilla, Raspberry, and Passion Fruit, Mango & Papaya - have been stocked. The family-run business also produces a diverse selection of dairy products including Organic and Gold Top range milk, butter, cream, yoghurt and ice cream.

Summer 2022 was the longest, hottest summer seen for many years, resulting in a harvest of exceptional quality, very good quality fruit with a high natural sugar level. Fast forward to 2023 which brought us a warm and sunny June which was followed by a wet and not seasonally warm July and August before a hot September and October - what would this mean for the English wine industry? The 2023 harvest at Biddenden started on Monday 18th September with a small team picking Ortega, 19 days later than 2022 and closer to that of years gone by. This is earlier than many other vineyards but picking start dates will always vary between estates and depends on the varieties grown as well as other locational and situational factors. Ortega, our flagship variety here at Biddenden, is early ripening and always our first variety picked. After 6 weeks of hard work from our local pickers and winery team, harvest finished on Monday the 30th October with Riesling our last variety to be picked. First planted at Biddenden in 2018, Riesling is a variety we are particularly excited about at Biddenden and we planted additional vines of this variety as part of an exclusive event held at the vineyard in May 2023. With a good harvest in 2022 and 2023 we look forward to sharing the results of our work with this variety at Biddenden - good things come to those who wait! In addition to Ortega and Riesling, 10 further varieties are grown across 25 acres at Biddenden and this has its advantages come harvest time, as each variety can be picked when it is perfectly ripe, in its own individual block, rather than having large areas which need to be picked all at once. All 12 varieties are picked by hand, by a team of local pickers and all fruit is pressed within hours, or even minutes, of being picked. After starting with Ortega, harvest continued through the white varieties including Bacchus, Reichensteiner and Huxelrebe, before moving onto the Pinot Noir, Dornfelder and Schönburger. The start date of harvest is one variable but the weather conditions throughout the year, alongside how the vines are cared for and managed, has a huge impact on the crop. Spring frosts after bud burst can spell disaster but, in 2023, the mild spring put off this potential damage. 2023 saw harvest records broken across the UK with vineyards bringing in huge crops and recording their biggest ever harvest. At the halfway point at Biddenden we had picked more tonnes of fruit than the 2022 harvest all together. But why the bumper crop? Water in the ground in April led to good bud break and canopy growth and a dry, warm June resulted in a strong, early, fruit set. July then saw one of the highest rainfall levels since records began, perfect for the vines, and then the warmth of September came along, just enough to bring on final ripening and reduce rain damage. Too much rain can cause the grapes to swell and split, however the September heat slowed this down, protecting the crop. A lot of what happens in a vineyard is also down to the year before and, with an exceptional 2022, the vines have been able to build up strong reserves to support the fruit growth in 2023. Affectionately dubbed ‘the monster of 2023’, this harvest we picked approximately 121 tonnes of grapes, in contrast to the 52 tonnes of 2022. The last time Biddenden picked a crop of this size all three Barnes boys were off at college and Mum, Sally, was the driver of the 3910 tractor, built in July 1983 - one of the earliest on record in this county according to Haynes. Prior to this, 2003 was the next largest crop with dolavs of grapes stretching on and on down the rows and it was all hands on deck to bring in the fruit for pressing. “A huge effort from all members of the team, 2023 is certainly the largest harvest I can remember for many years, perhaps back to 2004. Coming back from school I clearly remember walking out into the yard and it being full of grapes waiting for the press. Fast forward a few years to the largest crop Biddenden has seen, it certainly becomes fairly focusing and a logistical challenge juggling tanks and space into the early hours. I’m looking forward to the 2023 wines hitting the shelf, a good balance across all wines with the task of bottling now on the horizon as we move into early 2024 and a new season begins. No season is the same which is what makes it fun and a life style, not a job,” explains Tom Barnes, third generation and winemaker. With three generations of winemaking expertise, and the same tractor still going strong, all be it with some minor unplanned adjustments, it is Biddenden’s experience, unique growing methods and strong focus on vine health year round which has once again paid dividends. With the vines now dormant, the grape press stored away for another year and the wines safely in their tanks, the journey of our 2023 vintages carries on in the winery and we can’t wait to see what 2024 has in store. To keep up to date with all out latest news and vineyard updates, and to be the first to know when the 2023 vintages are available, visit the website at www.biddendenvineyards.com

A family business charter or code of conduct, can be the key to successful family dynamics and business endeavors. Many families in business don’t know where to start or don’t understand the purpose of having a charter. A family business charter outlines your family’s values, rules of behavior, and communication guidelines. This will not only promote harmony within your family business but also ensure sustained success across generations. The steps below are a simple guide to creating this important document. 1. Gather the family and discuss your values and goals Take the time to bring together all the members of your family who are involved in the business. This is an opportunity for an open and honest conversation about what truly matters to your family. Discuss and define your core values and goals as they relate to your business. Embrace the diversity of perspectives within the family and work towards a consensus that reflects your shared vision. 2. Behaviours and communication styles matter Now that you have a clear picture of your values and goals, it’s time to talk about the behaviors and communication styles that will help you achieve them. In family businesses, emotions can run high, and conflicts can arise. It’s important to establish guidelines that foster understanding, respect, and effective communication. Consider how you can cultivate a supportive and collaborative environment where everyone’s voices are heard. 3. Draft the charter Using the insights from your family discussion, it’s time to draft your family business charter. This document will serve as a compass, providing guidance for your actions and decisions within the business. Incorporate the agreed-upon values, behaviors, and communication guidelines into this charter. Keep it concise, but make sure it captures the essence of your family’s aspirations and commitments. 4. Review, adjust, and enhance Once you have a draft of your charter, gather all family members involved in the business for a comprehensive review. Take the time to listen to everyone’s feedback and perspectives. This is an opportunity to make any necessary adjustments or additions. Remember, this is a collective effort, and each family member’s input is valuable in shaping this important document. 5. Publish and share the charter With the charter refined and finalised, it’s time to publish it as a formal document. Distribute copies to all family members involved in the business, ensuring that everyone has easy access to it. Encourage family members to refer to the charter when navigating challenging situations. It will provide a framework for decision-making and promote unity and alignment within your business. 6. Regularly re-evaluate and improve Even the most thoughtfully crafted charter can benefit from periodic evaluation. Schedule a family discussion at least every two years to assess the effectiveness of your code of conduct and identify areas for improvement. This enables you to stay adaptable and keep it aligned with the evolving needs and dynamics of your family and business. By creating and regularly reviewing your charter, you are fostering an environment where trust, connection, and proactive collaboration can thrive. May this document serve as a constant reminder of the shared values that bind your family together and guide your business towards a prosperous future. About the Author: John Broons is a globally awarded family business expert. One of only three people in Australia to hold the coveted title of Fellow of Family Firm Institute (Boston, USA), John has dedicated his working career to answering the question: how do I guide and support families in business to a place where they’re thriving? Find out more by visiting his website here

A delightfully unexpected mashup of companies founded in fun and play is now revealed between the LEGO Group, Hasbro and Merlin Entertainments, who are coming together to bring a truly joyful and beloved character to life in LEGO® DUPLO® form – PEPPA PIG! Just in time for PEPPA PIG’s 20th anniversary, the companies are celebrating everyone’s favorite piggy with new experiences for toddlers. With a shared commitment to create and deliver great play experiences to children all around the world, the three brands will introduce new ways for preschoolers to engage with the much adored and globally celebrated PEPPA PIG character, known for her little snorts, giggles and love of jumping in muddy puddles. “PEPPA PIG is hugely popular and LEGO fans have been asking us to do a partnership for years, it was only natural that the world’s most popular pig needed to come to life in buildable LEGO sets, so we are excited to finally make that happen with the amazing team at Hasbro,” says Roberta Cardazzo, Design Manager at the LEGO Group. “Peppa is known for her confidence, ability to express herself and adopt new skills. She handles everyday tasks and obstacles with curiosity and charm and inspires children to be patient and learn to share. Toddlers can be creative with the Peppa sets and play out stories with the iconic figures, while they learn about caring for nature, friendship, and daily routines. It has been a joy bringing Peppa to life in products and we hope our LEGO DUPLO PEPPA PIG will create laughs and joyful moments wherever she goes.” The exciting collaboration will see PEPPA PIG come to life in LEGO DUPLO form for the very first time in LEGO products, as well as incredible attractions and rides in Merlin theme parks. The first experiences will launch this year in Germany and Denmark, including the world’s only LEGO DUPLO PEPPA PIG area at LEGOLAND® Billund and the brand-new PEPPA PIG Park in Gunzburg in Germany, situated next to LEGOLAND® Deutschland Park. The theme park experiences will bring to life the LEGO DUPLO PEPPA PIG sets, iconic scenes, and characters from the TV show in real-life PEPPA adventures. “For 20 years, PEPPA PIG has leaned into storytelling that reflects the real lives and first experiences of preschoolers around the world. With kids at the center of the brand, we recognize the importance of working with best-in-class partners to deliver toys and experiences tailored to her littlest fans,” said Casey Collins, President of Licensed Consumer Products at Hasbro. “LEGO Group and Merlin share in Hasbro and PEPPA’s goal of designing play experiences specifically for little ones, giving children the confidence to treat every first step as a new adventure and confidently jump into all of life’s muddy puddles.” Since the beloved animated television series first premiered in 2004, PEPPA PIG has encouraged kids to jump in together and explore the world around them. With their best friend Peppa by their side, preschoolers have the confidence to treat every first step as a new adventure – from the everyday to the epic. Now in its 10th season, the PEPPA PIG animated television series has been running for 20 years in over 180 territories. Globally successful, the brand connects with consumers across every touchpoint, from entertainment and retail to theme parks, touring shows and so much more. Scott O’Neil, CEO Merlin Entertainments, said: “This is an exciting step forward for two of our iconic partners, whose purpose is to entertain and educate through creativity and play. We’ve partnered with the LEGO Group for over 18 years and the power of the brand, across borders and ages, is unparalleled. We’re really proud to bring Hasbro’s PEPPA PIG to life with the DUPLO brand, beginning with our new PEPPA PIG Theme Park in Gunzberg and our LEGOLAND Billund Resort, as our guests make life-long memories and learn through play.”

In the vast landscape of commerce, family businesses stand as living chronicles, each with a unique story waiting to be unveiled. Beyond profit margins and market strategies, every family enterprise is shaped by a narrative that intertwines personal histories, values, challenges, and triumphs. Every family business carries a distinct tale, making it a vital and dynamic entity in the world of commerce. At the heart of every family business is a rich narrative based around their evolution. Whether founded generations ago or recently established, family businesses often emerge from the deep-seated values and beliefs of their progenitors. The story begins with the founders, their aspirations, and the ethos they sought to instill in their business. This historical context forms the foundation upon which subsequent chapters unfold. Behind the scenes of success lie untold stories of struggle and perseverance. Family businesses navigate challenges unique to their context, from economic downturns to internal disputes. These tales of resilience, adaptability, and determination often define the essence of the enterprise. The narrative encompasses not just the peaks of success but also the valleys of hardship, shaping the character of the business over time. As time unfolds, generational transitions add another layer to the story. The handover of leadership from one generation to the next introduces new characters and plot twists. The dynamics of intergenerational relationships, the transfer of knowledge, and the evolution of leadership styles contribute to the ongoing narrative of the family business. The story becomes a continuum, adapting to changing times while retaining familial bonds. As the world of business evolves over time, adaptability is a key theme in every family business story. The ability to embrace change, navigate technological advancements, and respond to shifting market dynamics shapes the trajectory of the enterprise, ensuring that they remain fit for purpose and relevant for the new world in which they are operating. The narrative reflects not only the external transformations in the business landscape but also the internal metamorphosis required for sustainability and growth. Family businesses often have a local impact, becoming integral parts of their communities. Their stories extend beyond the boardroom to community engagement, philanthropy, and social responsibility. These enterprises contribute to the social fabric, weaving a narrative that goes beyond profits to encompass shared values and a commitment to the well-being of the community and in many cases they are at the heart of the community in which they operate. In essence, every family business is a living story, a narrative that unfolds through time, shaped by the hands of its founders, carried forward by subsequent generations, and influenced by the external forces of the business world. These stories are not mere anecdotes but narratives that encapsulate the essence, struggles, triumphs, and ongoing evolution of each family enterprise. The fact that every family business has a story to tell reinforces the idea that commerce is not just about transactions; it is about the human experience, woven into the fabric of the business itself, something that can be used as a competitive advantage when told in an honest and authentic way too.

The Power of Respect in Business: Enabling Your Teams to Achieve Sustainable, Profitable Growth is written by Charles Leichtweis. Respect is the secret to motivating others and making you a more successful leader. It’s the one aspect of leadership no one talks about. Respect builds trust, trust builds relationships, and relationships are the key to leadership. In this book, you will learn that effective leadership requires equal emphasis on results and relationships. Fostering a culture of building relationships requires genuine respect. When the right relationships are in place, the organisation can focus on results. Charlie Leichtweis is one of those rare individuals who can help you understand WHAT your organisation needs to be doing and HOW to do it. With more than 40 years of experience, he specialises in serving family businesses as a C-suite executive, consulting advisor, and as a board member.

LandyCampers, the pioneering adventure vehicle camper hire based in Essex, is proud to announce its recent accolade as the runner-up in the Self Catering Accommodation category at the esteemed East Of England Tourism Awards 2023-2024. This recognition highlights LandyCampers' commitment to combining off-road thrills with glamping luxury, alongside its dedication to sustainability and eco-tourism, and marking it firmly as the very best holiday choice for adventurers in the region, and indeed the wider UK. Founded in 2019 by travel enthusiasts (and husband and wife team) Max Isham and Bela Boehme, LandyCampers has quickly established itself as the region’s first and premier choice for unique, eco-conscious camping adventures. The company offers custom-converted Land Rover Defenders equipped with the highest quality rooftop tents and all the essentials for an off-grid camping experience, designed to introduce guests to the scenic beauty of the East of England and beyond. During a time when sustainability is more important than ever, LandyCampers leads the way in eco-friendly travel. Through partnerships with organisations like Ecologi, the company has contributed to planting over 4,000 trees and offsetting nearly 170 tonnes of CO2. These efforts reflect LandyCampers' deep commitment to preserving the natural environments that make their adventures so memorable. Max Isham, co-founder of LandyCampers, stated, "We are absolutely thrilled to be recognised by the East Of England Tourism Awards. This honour is a testament to our passion for creating unforgettable travel experiences that are as kind to the planet as they are exciting for our guests." "We're inspired to continue innovating and expanding our offerings, ensuring every adventure with LandyCampers is an adventure worth sharing." In the words of the East Of England Tourism Awards judges, 'LandyCampers is the region's first and premier Adventure Vehicle Camper hire, where they combine off-road thrills with glamping luxury. Each is a custom converted camper, equipped with unique rooftop tents and fully stocked with off-grid ready camping inventory. Many have discovered and fallen in love with the region's hidden gems thanks to their curated journeys.' This accolade is a reflection of LandyCampers’ commitment to providing unparalleled adventures that seamlessly blend the excitement of exploration with the comforts of luxury camping. The runner-up position at the awards not only celebrates LandyCampers' achievements but also sets the stage for future growth. With plans for expansion and continuous enhancement of their eco-tourism initiatives, LandyCampers is poised to drive forward the adventure travel industry, making sustainable exploration accessible to all.

Feisal Alibhai's Four Steps to Flow introduces a groundbreaking way of approaching life. Challenging our fundamental understanding of head versus heart, it offers an innovative path to a meaningful life lived in a state of continuous flow. Follow your head, and you will forever argue with yourself about whether you are making the right decision. Follow your heart, and you will stew in emotional turmoil. In both cases, the name of the game is confusion, anxiety, and drama. Three life-changing crises shocked business tycoon Feisal Alibhai into the realization that success isn’t enough. The key to leading a fulfilling life is to engage both head and heart by taking four simple steps. Comments: "Flow takes you on a spiritual journey where Buffet meets Siddharta with perfect balance. This is the new Monk 2.0." Jason Axmith, Founder Cosecha Imports, former CEO of Robin Sharma International "One of those rare adventures others need to hear about to inspire them to uncover within themselves potential they have no clue exists." Dr. Shefali Tsabary, Author of The Awakened Family "Having had the privilege to be a dear friend to Feisal through many of the peaks and troughs in his life that he has discussed in this book I am enthralled with the way that he has managed to simplify and articulate one of the most essential keys to a meaningful life……the alignment of head and heart. A counterintuitive theory like this one is not always easy to understand and even more so difficult to digest. Feisal’s life examples in bite size portions simplify the entire idea allowing for realistic action and execution. The reader, if willing and open, will see the barriers blocking their true self slowly unravel." Adnan Hassanali, ALIEL Managing Director "Rarely have I seen a person so courageously dedicated to his own healing. It's my hope that readers are so inspired by reading his journey as I was in witnessing it." Dr. Habib Sedeghi, Author of The Clarity Cleanse "The new generation should be aware of the suffering of their ancestors. This awareness will provide them with drive and clarity that complete focus on one’s own health is the only key to happiness and success." Alain Spruyt, CEO Driesassur About the Author - Feisal Alibhai, a serial entrepreneur who has lived on five continents and founded more than a dozen companies, is today the founder and CEO of Qineticare, the world’s first Family Health Office. Working with families across the globe, Feisal shares a revolutionary approach to health, wellbeing, and the art of living in flow. For more information visit www.qineticare.com .

Producers of British eggs and poultry meat face an uncertain future without greater government support and supply chain reform, an NFU survey has revealed. The survey looked at the impact of the past two years on poultry production and farmers’ intentions over the next two years. It found that 24% of egg producers and 15% of chicken meat producers, many of them owned and operated by multi-generational family farmers, were either unlikely or unsure if they would still be producing poultry beyond November 2025. The main reason cited for this was insufficient returns which suggests businesses have not been profitable. The survey also highlighted some of the key concerns for both sectors, including: The risk of avian influenza (94% of egg producers and 92% of chicken meat producers were fairly or very concerned) The lack of fairness in the supply chain (90% of egg producers and 76% of chicken meat producers were fairly or very concerned) High energy prices (92% of egg producers and 61% of chicken meat producers were fairly or very concerned) Being undercut by imports (90% of egg producers and 78% of chicken meat producers were fairly or very concerned) In order to better support the production of high quality British eggs and poultry meat, the NFU is calling for greater fairness in poultry supply chains, for poultry producers to be included in the Energy Intensive Industries scheme, and for a long-term strategy from government to be set ahead of any future outbreaks of avian influenza (AI). NFU poultry board chair James Mottershead said: “British eggs and poultry meat are staple parts of so many people’s diets, but the sector is under a huge amount of strain. Incredibly volatile production costs and the threat of avian influenza have put producers under extreme pressure." “The sector urgently needs support, certainty and fairness applied across the supply chain if it is to remain strong in its production of quality, safe, nutritious and sustainably produced poultry meat and eggs which we know the vast majority of the British public rely on." “That’s why the NFU is calling for change within poultry supply chains to ensure a fairer sharing of risk and reward, as outlined in our response to the government’s recent review of the egg supply chain." “This survey has also highlighted the ongoing threat from avian influenza that poultry farmers and their flocks continue to face. While the number of outbreaks has been minimal this winter compared to previous years, the devastating impact the disease has on farming families is keenly felt across the sector. It is important not to take our eyes of the ball and we wait in anticipation for the government to publish the recommendations from the AI Vaccination Taskforce so that informed decisions can be made to protect the national flock.”

The company has been appointed by the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire to redevelop the existing headquarters building of Hertfordshire Constabulary in Stanborough, Welwyn Garden City. This will involve demolishing 11 of the 1960s-era buildings at the site to make way for a brand-new working environment for over 600 operational staff that will achieve a BREEAM Excellent for ultra-high sustainability standards. Procured via the SCAPE Construction framework, it also responds to new Policing working methods by providing agile space that addresses staff wellbeing and working needs, and is targeting WELL Platinum Certification, a major benchmark for advancing health and wellbeing within a single building. The 9,000 square metre new headquarters will reduce the current Stanborough estate’s long-term running costs as well as provide a new home for services and departments based at the site including the Major Crime Unit, victim services and the dog unit, along with the senior leadership team and operational support staff. Designed by Vincent & Gorbing Associates, work will complete in summer 2026 on the new headquarters. Stewart Brundell, managing director at Willmott Dixon in North London and Northern Homes Counties said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Hertfordshire Constabulary to deliver their new headquarters. As a proud Hertfordshire-based company, it is fantastic to be starting on site to provide a new facility for our county’s police force." “This project follows on from our successful delivery of the Bedfordshire Police’s new custody suite. The new HQ will provide Hertfordshire Constabulary’s people with a sustainable, flexible working environment which can be utilised for police and community groups as well.” Mark Robinson, group chief executive at the SCAPE group, added: “The redevelopment of the headquarters of Hertfordshire Constabulary will provide a considerable boost to policing services in the area, bringing positive change and benefits to the local community. Through our close-working relationship with Willmott Dixon, we are dedicated to providing efficiency and cost savings throughout the project, alongside delivering social value for the public.” This extends Willmott Dixon’s track record of projects for the emergency services across the UK. Recent work includes a new forensics centre for Thames Valley Police, a new fire station and training centre for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, as well as new headquarter buildings for Dorset, Humberside and Merseyside Police Forces. Also, the company built a purpose-built facility to house all the teaching requirements within one building for South Wales Police.