The international transport and logistics company Gebrüder Weiss is driving the dynamic growth of Jebsen Group’s beverage business line in China through comprehensive warehousing and distribution solutions. Headquartered in Hong Kong, Jebsen Group is a well-established trading company known for bringing international premium brands to Greater China and marketing them across the region. Featured brands include renowned products such as Bundaberg Ginger Beer, Fiji Water, and Vita Coconut Water. From Shanghai, the brands are distributed nationwide to supermarkets, wholesalers, and e-commerce platforms. Gary Chan, Head of Supply Chain, Beverage at Jebsen said: “Thanks to Gebrüder Weiss’s modern supply chain infrastructure and professional team, we’ve been able to significantly expand our market position." Customers include leading retailers such as Hema – the Alibaba-owned supermarket chain, as well as numerous other retailers and wholesalers throughout China. The partnership dates back to 2017, when Gebrüder Weiss provided Sanyi Wine Trading with a warehouse solution to support the market entry of the Australian Bundaberg brand. Following Jebsen Group’s acquisition of Sanyi in 2022, the focus shifted to the premium beverage segment in Greater China. Since then, the collaboration with Gebrüder Weiss has evolved into a comprehensive logistics solution, currently handling over 2,700 orders annually – and growing. At the company’s 4,000-square-meter logistics facility in Shanghai, specialized professionals ensure seamless operations. The warehouse was recently certified at Security Level 3 for meeting high safety standards. Services include temperature- and humidity-controlled storage, order processing using the First-In-First-Out (FIFO) method, expiry date monitoring, labelling and packaging, as well as inventory management. “The beverage market in China is fast-paced and highly demanding. Our goal is to work closely with the Jebsen team to develop tailored solutions and respond flexibly to changing needs,” said Yongquan Chen, General Manager of Gebrüder Weiss China. Looking ahead, Gebrüder Weiss and Jebsen Group plan to further deepen their successful collaboration and expand their beverage portfolio. With extensive experience in beverage logistics in China, Gebrüder Weiss also operates a second logistics hub in Chengdu. There, the company supports leading Baijiu brands – China’s most well-known and best-selling spirit – with customized e-commerce and fulfilment solutions.

Award-winning family business Furniture Village is pleased to announce the upcoming opening of a new store located in Worcester’s bustling Elgar Retail Park. Scheduled to open its doors on Saturday 23 August 2025, the impressive 22,000-square-foot, two-floor showroom enjoys a prime spot in one of Worcester’s most vibrant and thriving shopping destinations, alongside B&Q, NEXT, Wren, Dunelm, and other household names. The store will offer a wide selection of good quality furniture and accessories, featuring many exclusive ranges sourced from around the world, as well as British premium brands such as G Plan, Lounge Co, Hypnos, Sleepeezee, and many others. Customers can look forward to expert advice from a friendly, service-focused team, alongside value-added services including rapid delivery on most products and a lowest price guarantee, all reinforcing Furniture Village’s unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and unbeatable value. Opening offers include an extra £50 off sale prices for every £500 spent, which runs until the end of October 2025. Visitors will also have the chance to enter a competition to win £2,500 to spend at the Worcester store. Complimentary coffee and freshly baked cookies will add to the warm and welcoming in-store experience. Charlie Harrison, Managing Director of Furniture Village, comments, “We couldn’t be more excited to bring Furniture Village to Worcester, especially with its location in the Elgar Retail Park, a hub for home and lifestyle shopping and perfectly placed to satisfy discerning shoppers in one of the UK’s most picturesque counties.” For more information and to browse the full range, please visit here .

Britain’s oldest brewer Shepherd Neame has introduced a delicious new Afternoon Tea menu, with a selection of handcrafted sweet and savoury treats, just in time for National Afternoon Tea Week, which runs until Sunday (August 17). And to complement the offer, the brewer and pub company has teamed up with fellow family-owned, independent British firm Birchall Tea so customers can choose from an extensive selection of their award-winning flavours - or add sparkle with a glass of fizz. The delectable new menu includes open sandwiches of smoked salmon and lemon cream cheese served on malted sourdough; finger sandwiches of coronation chicken on granary bread, and free range egg mayonnaise and watercress on white bread, plus bite sized homemade gourmet sausage rolls. Sweet treats on offer range from homemade Earl Grey-soaked raisin scones with clotted cream and Tiptree strawberry jam, to lemon meringue tartlets, miniature Victoria sponges and strawberry choux buns, and a chocolate trio pot. The selection of Birchall teas on offer include Green Tea, Green and Mint Tea, Virunga Afternoon Tea, Virunga Chai, Cederberg Redbush and Chamomile. The Birchall family has been in the tea industry for more than 150 years, with the current Managing Director, Daniel Graham, the fifth generation of his family to make tea - just as Shepherd Neame’s Chief Executive Jonathan Neame is the fifth generation of his family to run the Faversham-based company. Shepherd Neame Executive Chef Gareth Finney said: “Transforming our Afternoon Tea menu was an exciting challenge, where the exceptional teas took the centre stage. To deliver a memorable menu, our team took inspiration from the vast blends and varieties of teas from the Birchall tea range, looking at how the complex blends complement and pair with a wide range of flavours." “On a sunny afternoon, enjoying a cup of your favourite freshly brewed tea, paired with delectable cream cakes and finger sandwiches - what could be more quintessentially English?” For an extra treat, customers can opt for a glass of Prosecco or Champagne at a small extra cost. The menu costs £55 for two people, and is available now at selected Shepherd Neame sites*. To find out more visit here . *Please note that 48 hour advanced booking is required.

The White Horse and Bower, a landmark London pub just minutes from Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, will reopen on September 10 following a stunning £950,000 refurbishment by independent family brewer and pub company Shepherd Neame. First opened in 1816, the pub has long been a favourite with locals and visitors alike. Now, after a three-month transformation, it is set to welcome guests once again, blending its rich heritage with a bold, modern vision. At the heart of the redesign is a bespoke reclaimed oak bar, repositioned to create a more open, welcoming atmosphere at the front of the pub. New banquette seating in aged leather and plush velvets will add comfort and character, with a more private setting offered in intimate rear booths, separated by handmade stained-glass screens. A reclaimed full-height timber fireplace, antique light fittings, and traditional hand-painted Lincrusta wall finish will enrich the pub with a sense of history, supported by subtle nods to its Westminster location throughout carefully curated artwork. A new herringbone timber floor with a bespoke Persian-design carpet will add to the warm, layered feel of the interior. Outside, the pub’s original tiled façade is being carefully restored, complemented by new awning and a bespoke hand-painted swing sign featuring the pub’s eponymous white horse. New bi-folding timber windows, bench seating and planters will create a more open, indoor-outdoor feel. In line with Shepherd Neame’s commitment to sustainability, the refurbishment will include energy-efficient fridges, smart cellar technology, LED lighting, and an all-electric kitchen. The expanded kitchen will serve up a delicious new menu, with a focus on locally sourced seasonal produce and relaxed, shareable dishes. Perfect for grazing, bar favourites on offer will include pork and sage Scotch egg with mustard mayo; chorizo and smoked pancetta pigs in blankets; chunky sausage rolls featuring Shepherd Neame’s award-winning 1698 ale and onion chutney; and hash brown puffs with crispy bacon, Parmesan and smoked mayo. There will also be a delicious selection of small plates including miso-glazed aubergine with sweet tahini yoghurt; crispy salt and pepper dusted squid with citrus mayo; and grilled lamb koftas with smoky baba ganoush. Larger dishes will include Whitstable Bay beer-battered haddock with chips; tandoori chicken skewers with warm quinoa salad; hot smoked salmon Niçoise, and a 5oz grilled sirloin with Parmesan and garlic butter. Burgers will also be a speciality, with choices including smash beef or the plant-based Fable mushroom. At the weekend, customers will be able to enjoy a delicious new brunch menu, with dishes including ranch eggs with spinach and a spicy cheese sauce on a toasted English muffin; a hearty potato hash with pork meatballs, maple bacon and a fried egg; and shakshuka baked eggs with feta and pesto. The drinks list has been completely reimagined, with a strong focus on quality and locality. An extensive range of Shepherd Neame’s award-winning Kentish beers will be available, including its new Iron Wharf stout, which will also feature in the pub’s exclusive take on a classic Black Velvet, blended with English sparkling wine. There will be a particular focus on cocktails, from signature Margaritas and refreshing Mojitos to the pub’s own take on the Espresso Martini and Negroni, along with a selection of premium wines including several from Kent’s flourishing vineyards. The White Horse and Bower will also host an exciting programme of events, including regular live music nights, designed to make it a go-to venue for both Westminster regulars and new visitors alike. Operations Manager Ryan Torrie said: “The White Horse and Bower is a fantastic pub in an incredible location. Our aim with this project is to preserve and celebrate its unique character while introducing a stylish, new experience. With a vibrant food and drink offer, live events, and beautiful surroundings, we’re confident it will become a local favourite once again. We can’t wait to open the doors and welcome everyone back.” The pub will be open every day, with food served from 11am to 9pm, Monday to Tuesday; 11am to 10pm, Wednesday to Friday; 10am to 9pm on Saturday; and 10am to 8pm on Sunday.

The Bournemouth and District Association of Funeral Directors (BAFD) has a new President – Leanne Adimi from Douch Family Funeral Directors. She was presented with her chain of office by Nick Douch, who has worn it for the last two years and is the managing director of her company. The association is well over a 100 years old and was a founder member of the Bournemouth Chamber of Trade and Commerce, whose own president was at the changing of the guard. BAFD exists to support the funeral sector within the area and liaise with local authorities on behalf of its members. Leanne said: “It is a great privilege to wear the chain of office of an organisation that goes back to the 1890s. I watched Nick in the role over the last two years and saw how much work he did that went unnoticed. The funeral business, like any industry, has its issues and often these are best sorted out through an umbrella organisation. I am looking forward to working hard for our members.” Nick Douch said: “I can’t think of a better person to take the office. Leanne will carry the role forward with passion and purpose. Leadership isn't about titles, it's about presence, values and contribution, all of which Leanne embodies." “I’m proud to pass the responsibility on to her and I look forward to supporting her in this role.” Nigel Hedges, President of the Bournemouth Chamber of trade and Commerce, said: “The Bournemouth and District Association of Funeral Directors was a founder member of the Chamber. “We have worked together for more than a century and I look forward to continuing the tradition with Leanne.”

British sunflower season is here and M&S has launched a range of new bouquets, showcasing new sunflower varieties for customers to try. The varieties on offer include fiery-bright Helios flame, deep-burgundy Pro Cut red, Sun Rich Gold, Solano Gold and Double sunflowers. Customers can find the new bouquets – including Speciality Sunflower Abundance (also available online) and Sunflower, Cerise Rose and Eryngium available in selected UK stores. Behind these new varieties is the Naylor family, based in Spalding in South Lincolnshire, who have been growing cut flowers for over 70 years. The family has been working with M&S for over two decades now as a Select Farm partner and grow over 100 million cut stems of cut flowers per year, including plenty of sunflowers. Each flower is hand-picked by a skilled harvest team seven days a week to make sure they are at just the right stage to look their best in customers’ homes and last for longer. The Naylor family now employ more than 80 colleagues across the 600-acre farm and have been investing in renewable energy, roof water harvesting and robotic weeding to help improve sustainability on-site. Matt Naylor, Managing Director of Naylor Flowers Ltd, said: “I’ve been growing flowers now for over 30 years and the summer harvest is always a highlight! Our sunflowers have one of the longest seasons and so much work and skills goes in from the whole team to grow and harvest each stem to make sure it’s the perfect quality for M&S customers. It’s fantastic that customers are getting to see even more varieties this year and we’re incredibly proud to be bringing that touch of joy into people’s homes across the UK.” Kathryn Camps, Senior Technologist at M&S, adds: “Our new eye-catching Speciality Sunflowers are sure to make a statement in your home and spread some of that summer joy! From fiery reds to magnolias and rich golds, these flowers instantly uplift any space. It’s brilliant to have such longstanding relationships with our growers like the Naylor family, who share our relentless focus on quality and that passion for the perfect summer bouquet!” M&S’ ‘Flower Doctor’ works directly with suppliers to ensure every stem meets the highest standards of quality and freshness, with all M&S flowers handpicked for perfection with a 5-day guarantee. Here are some top tips from M&S’ Flower Doctor for keeping your sunflowers fresh for longer at home: Always ensure you have fresh water Cut the stem at an angle to increase surface area Always make sure you display flowers away from the fruit bowl, which can speed up the ageing process

Yorkshire-based manufacturer Power Plastics has been granted a renewed five-year approval by the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, for the use of its Baffle Curtains in public water supply across the UK & Northern Ireland. The approvals fall under Regulation 31(4)(a) of both the Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 2016 and Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 2010 (Wales). Power Plastics remains the only UK manufacturer to hold Regulation 31(4)(a) approval not just for the materials used in its drinking water products, but also for its fully assembled Baffle Curtain system. Widely adopted by UK water utilities, these innovative systems play a crucial role in maintaining optimal water quality within potable water storage tanks Phil Sellers, Technical Director of Power Plastics, commented: “We are delighted to have extended approval for both our Baffle Curtain system and the materials used in our drinking water product range, through to the end of 2029." "This achievement reinforces our reputation as a trusted partner to the UK water industry and our steadfast commitment to delivering high-quality, compliant solutions that support the effective management of drinking water supplies." In addition to Baffle Curtains, Power Plastics offer a broad range of innovative products for the waste & water industry, including odour control covers, removable tank covers and sludge cones. To explore the full range of Power Plastics waste & water industry solutions, visit their website here   Power Plastics is a UK based fabric and structural engineering company specialising in the design, manufacture, assembly and onsite installation of cover solutions, comprising of fabric and structural metalwork for a wide variety of industries. Operating internationally, Power Plastics has a reputation around the world for innovation and the quality of product and service they provide.

Firms across the private sector expect activity to fall in the next three months (weighted balance of -18%), extending a run of negative sentiment that began in late 2024, according to the CBI’s latest Growth Indicator. The downturn is expected to be broad-based, with business volumes in the services sector set to decline (-19%), driven by weaker expectations in business & professional services (-16%) and a continually negative outlook in consumer services (-28%). A sizeable fall is also anticipated in distribution sales (-28%), while manufacturing output is expected to dip modestly (-6%). The weak outlook follows a sharp fall in activity in the three months to July (-29%). Most sub-sectors reported falling activity, while manufacturing output was stagnant. Alpesh Paleja, CBI Deputy Chief Economist, said: “Firms continue to face testing conditions, with expectations pointing to another quarter of falling activity across the economy. While not worsening, the persistently negative outlook underlines the fragility of demand conditions." “Against this backdrop, businesses continue to cite headwinds from adjusting to higher employment costs, energy prices and continued uncertainty from a volatile global environment. With few signs of recovery on the horizon, firms are focused on managing costs and streamlining processes in what looks set to be a subdued second half of the year." “Building positive business sentiment will require the government to translate its long-term strategic thinking into short-term delivery progress." "The government must work collaboratively with business in the lead up to this year’s Autumn Budget: acknowledging the significant burdens that firms are facing and mitigating the damaging impact on sentiment from continued fiscal uncertainty." “Detailing how the government will deliver its action plan to tackle regulatory barriers to growth; positioning businesses to invest in the people they need through a flexible Growth and Skills Levy; and finding an appropriate landing zone for the Employment Rights Bill are positive next steps the government should be prioritising to build confidence in its growth mission.” Key findings from our monthly Services Sector Survey showed: Business volumes in the services sector fell in the three months to July (-35%), at a faster pace than in the quarter to June. The latest data marked nine consecutive rolling quarters of decline. Both business & professional services (-37%) and consumer services (-30%) volumes fell through the quarter. But trends between the two sectors diverged: business & professional services saw the fastest fall in activity since October 2020, while consumer services reported the slowest decline in nine months. Hiring intentions within the services sector remain weak. Business & professional services expect headcount to fall over the next three months (-19%), while consumer services companies expect a comparatively sharper fall in numbers employed (-37%). Selling price expectations in the services sector have eased close to long-run averages (+11%; long-run average +7%). Inflation expectations have retreated in both business & professional services (+7%) and consumer services (+24%).

For over 22 years, Home-Start Glasgow North and North Lanarkshire has been transforming lives and helping children get the best start in life across the community. Based in Maryhill, in the north of Glasgow, the charity supports families who are navigating some of life’s toughest challenges like poverty, poor mental health, isolation, domestic abuse, addiction, bereavement, and more. Many of the families they support are refugees or asylum seekers who are new to the area, or from other marginalised communities. What they all have in common is at least one child under five, and a pressing need for dignified support. Home-Start’s staff are supported by a group of trained volunteers - many with lived experience - who are at the heart of the organisation, providing a unique kind of peer support that is both cost-effective and deeply personal. Through a mix of home visits, group sessions, and local outings, they offer practical help and emotional support tailored to each family’s needs. The charity’s work is grounded in the belief that the first 1001 days of a child’s life are crucial for laying the foundations of a child’s long-term health, development, and wellbeing. One of their most impactful initiatives is a series of family support groups in North Glasgow. These groups offer a safe, welcoming space where parents and carers can come together with their young children and enjoy activities such as baby massage, sensory play, music sessions, crafts, and many others. There’s also practical support, including workshops on cooking healthy meals on a budget, parenting advice, and access to essentials like food and baby banks. Now, thanks to a generous donation of £2,100 from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust, Home-Start will be able to enhance these vital group activities. The funding will help ensure families can access support in a way that’s non-judgemental, inclusive, and embedded in the community. Nikki O’Hara, Director at Home-Start Glasgow North and North Lanarkshire, shared her thanks on behalf of the charity, saying: “We are incredibly grateful to Allied Vehicles for their generous donation. This vital support will help us continue providing one-to-one support for families facing difficulties, including mental health challenges, isolation, and financial hardship." "Thanks to Allied Vehicles, we can reach more families going through difficult times and offer them the encouragement and support they need to build a brighter future.” David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles Group, said, “As a business that’s proudly rooted in Glasgow, we understand the importance of community and the power of local support. We’re proud to play a small part in Home-Start Glasgow North and North Lanarkshire’s incredible work, and it’s a privilege to support an organisation that’s making such a meaningful difference in people’s lives right here in North Glasgow.” Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust : The Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust is an initiative through which Allied Vehicles Group donates £240,000 a year to charities in communities around its Possilpark, Glasgow headquarters and further afield. Funding applications from organisations for a share of the £20,000 monthly figure are considered by a staff committee and are paid out every month.

Marks & Spencer is proud to partner with AM Farming, a family-run business based in Crossgar, Co Down, to bring customers across Ireland the freshest, best-tasting local new season Queens potatoes. AM Farming is run by Richard and Sharon Orr, alongside their children Alfie (7) and Mia (4) – after whom the business is named. Richard is a fifth-generation potato farmer, with family roots in potato farming stretching back to the townland of Greyabbey. This July, freshly dug Queens potatoes will arrive on M&S shelves in a special 2.5kg pack – a moment he describes as his childhood dream come true. As a boy, Richard remembers seeing M&S farmers pictured in stores and aspiring to be one of them. “M&S require that extra care, quality and taste in their produce – that’s what I’m passionate about,” he said. The Queens variety has a long and proud history on the island of Ireland, known for its unique dry matter quality, producing a fluffy, floury potato bursting with flavour. Richard explained: “We want to feed people quality local produce. Queens should never be washed as the goodness is in the skin – just brush off any excess soil, power boil them, and roast them for the ultimate serve.” Unlike others who rush early harvests, M&S works with Richard to wait until the optimal harvest window to ensure each potato delivers the signature floury texture and light, fluffy taste that Queens are famous for. Shaun Doherty, Senior Agronomist at M&S added: “This is the ideal location to grow Queens, and Richard’s generational knowledge makes him an expert. Queens come into season three months earlier than other varieties, and their light fluffiness makes them so special.” The farm also grows oats, wheat, and beans as part of its sustainable approach to soil health. Richard is committed to protecting and enriching his land, explaining: “When I came home to farm, we changed our approach to reduce cultivation. We brought in a machine that prepares the soil in one pass instead of four, reducing carbon emissions and protecting soil structure. We also grow cover crops over winter to hold nutrients for the following crops. This helps protect the environment and keeps the soil healthy for generations to come.” Queens are harvested and handled entirely on Richard’s farm. He harvests the potatoes himself, gently brushes them to remove excess soil, and packs them directly on site before they are delivered to M&S stores – meaning no one else touches the potatoes before the customer does. Shaun added: “Richard’s produce impressed us from the outset – his ethos, passion, and knowledge are clear. We encourage customers to try these Queens and follow the cooking instructions on the pack to experience their ultimate flavour.” The launch of AM Farming’s new season Queens potatoes is the result of a successful supplier pitch at last year’s Balmoral Show, facilitated by Food NI. Just one year later, Richard’s potatoes will be available to M&S customers from 30th July at all 23 stores in Northern Ireland and 16 stores in the Republic of Ireland For Richard, it’s a proud family moment: “The realisation that this is going to be my product on the shelf, with my picture on the bag, is really special. AM stands for Alfie and Mia, so it’s something for my children too. We want M&S customers to lift their first bag of Queens and say wow.”

Family Business United is delighted to announce the 11 finalists in the running for the National Family Business Lifetime Achievement Award which will be presented at a gala event in London on September 17, 2025 as part of the National Family Business Day celebrations. As Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United explains, "Our finalists are both family and non-family members who have dedicated significant amounts of their working lives contributing to the success and growth of the family business that they are associated with." "Running a family business can be a lonely place and we created these awards to recognise the incredible contribution that is made by individuals within these firms." "The family business community will come together to celebrate and recognise each of their journeys where one of our finalists will be crowned the National Family Business Lifetime Achievement winner." "Each finalist has a story to tell and when you read the submissions for each of them the emotion, personal endeavours and devotion to their path is palpable. Selecting a winner is not going to be easy." Our finalists for the Lifetime Achievement Award 2025, in no particular order, are: Martin Poynter - Arden Dies Derek Kelly - Kellys Bronze Tracey Consiglio - The Pantry Charles Marr - The Ice Co Ltd and J Marr Ltd Simon Berry - English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues Harold Wilson MBE - UK Docks Marine Services Ltd Trevor Ellis - CS Ellis Tony Nicholson - Nicholsons Stalham Engineering George Wills - Little's Chauffeur Drive Dave Roy - Brewers Decorator Centres Jenny Fisher - The Fisher Partnership The judges will deliberate and determine the overall winner who will be announced on the night at the National Family Business Day Dinner 2025. Find out more about the event and book your tickets to join us here

A historic Staffordshire football team has received a helping hand with preparations for its 150th anniversary celebrations - thanks to a £2,000 donation from JCB. Rocester FC, which marks the milestone next year, has been busy carrying out a series of general repairs and maintenance to get the club ready for the new season and the special anniversary year. Work has been completed to reseed and turf the pitch with painting and repairing equipment, replacing goal nets and installing new corner flags also undertaken. Club Chairman Dave Jackson said the whole team was grateful for how the community had come together to update the facilities ready for the new season and the 150th anniversary of the club. He said: “It costs around £3,500 to reseed, turf and drill the pitch ready for the new season. We rely heavily on kind donations from supportive businesses like JCB to make it possible. Rocester FC has been at the heart of the community since the 1800s and we are proud of what we have achieved. As we prepare to celebrate next year’s major milestone, we plan to take time to carry out general upkeep and maintenance tasks and we couldn’t be more grateful for all the support we have received as the community comes together to celebrate.” Rocester FC – nicknamed The Romans as the club is located on the site of a former Roman fort – was formed in 1876. Playing at Hillsfield, in Mill Street, Rocester, the club is currently in the Staffordshire County Senior League Premier Division.