“Your business name is more than a label – it’s your first impression. The right name builds trust and sets you apart, while the wrong one can confuse customers or harm your brand," explains Joe Phelan, money.co.uk business accounts expert. When Pete’s Super Submarines rebranded as Subway in 1968, it wasn’t just trimming syllables – it was setting the stage for global expansion. A business name is far more than a label – it’s a first impression, a search term, a brand in miniature. And, for small business owners, it can be the difference between blending in and standing out. Your Name Is Your First Pitch A business name speaks before you do. It gives prospective customers a clue — consciously or not — about what you do, who you’re for, and whether they should trust you. Take Backrub, Google’s original name. It was quirky and confusing. But “Google” hinted at vastness and technical prowess, a playful spin on the mathematical term “googol.” That simple rebrand helped position the company as the gateway to the internet, laying the foundation for global dominance. A good name can spark curiosity and instantly convey value. A bad name can do the opposite, adding friction, creating confusion, even forcing you to explain, apologise, or over-market just to get people to understand what you offer. When you’re juggling the day-to-day realities of keeping things running and pouring everything you’ve got into making your idea a success, the last thing you want is to be revisiting your name time and time again. It can be exhausting having to clarify what it means, or to see people get the wrong impression about what you do. A strong, strategic name saves you from that. It works with you, not against you, helping people ‘get it’ right away so you can focus on what you do best. The Power Behind A Name: Lending And Reputation While choosing a business name might seem like a creative or arbitrary decision, research suggests it can have real financial impact – especially when it comes to borrowing. A recent study of over 600,000 European firms found that businesses named after their owners — so-called eponymous firms — enjoy better terms on their loans. These firms tend to pay lower interest rates and access longer-term debt compared to businesses with other names. Why? The study’s authors suggest that it’s because using the owner’s name sends a clear signal of reputation and commitment to lenders. It reduces uncertainty and builds trust, helping to bridge the information gap between borrower and lender. In other words, a name isn’t just a brand – it can be a powerful part of your business’s financial foundation. Getting it right is more than marketing; it’s about creating trust that opens doors to better financing options, helping your business grow with confidence. The Power Of Clarity Clarity isn’t just a branding choice – it’s a trust signal. When people instantly understand what you do, they’re more likely to believe in it, engage, and buy. Start with your name. Is it easy to spell? Searchable? Does the domain avoid awkward typos or double meanings? And beware the Scunthorpe problem: filters blocking innocent words because of unfortunate letter combinations. Clarity shows professionalism. If your prices are clear, people trust you. If your layout is clear, they stick around. If your message is clear, they listen. Don’t give people a reason to hesitate. Say what you mean and make it easy for them to say yes. Naming Pitfalls Creative names can work, but not if they confuse your customers. Overly abstract or stylised names often backfire, especially if they’re hard to pronounce, spell, or understand at a glance. Some brands have dropped vowels or rebranded to sound sleek and modern, only to be met with confusion or ridicule. Others have moved away from familiar names to signal change, but ended up losing recognition and trust. What sounds quirky in one language might mean something unfortunate in another. And names meant to be playful can feel awkward in real life, especially if you can’t say them with a straight face. A great name should work for your audience, not against them. Consider how it sounds, how it looks online, and how it might travel beyond your local market. Because in the end, a great name doesn’t just label your business, it opens the door to trust, recognition, and potentially even financial support.

HRH The Princess Royal was given an insight into JCB’s innovative hydrogen technology when she visited a special zone at the Royal Highland Show highlighting net zero innovations. The Princess was shown around the engine at the show in Edinburgh by JCB Principal Engineer Tom Beamish and JCB Engineer Cameron Scott, who are part of the team helping to develop JCB’s hydrogen technology. It was the hydrogen fuelled internal combustion engine’s second VIP visitor in 24 hours after Scottish First Minister John Swinney was shown around it on the opening day. The engine was the centrepiece of the Royal Highland and Agricultural Show Society’s Presidential Solutions Hub highlighting solutions designed to help meet Net Zero climate targets. It was also the first time it had been exhibited at an agricultural event. Tom Beamish said: “The Princess Royal was very interested in JCB’s development of the world’s first hydrogen combustion engine and spent several minutes with us talking about it, showing particular interest in the opportunities hydrogen offers for farmers. It was also great to show The First Minister the hydrogen engine and he was impressed that it was a completely new engine, which delivered the same power, performance and efficiency as the diesel equivalent, but with zero emissions. He was also struck by the fact it has been developed in the UK using in-house skills.” A team of 150 engineers has been working on the £100 million JCB hydrogen engine project for nearly four years. More than 150 evaluation units have been manufactured for exhaustive testing and a number of those engines – and the refuelling options that JCB has developed – are being evaluated in real world on-site situations by plant hire companies, with very positive results. In January, JCB’s hydrogen engine secured landmark rulings from licensing authorities allowing it to be used commercially in machines. This paved the way for a government decision on April 29th, changing the law to allow hydrogen-fuelled construction and agricultural machinery on public highways. In May, the 27 EU member states joined Great Britain in granting type approval for JCB’s hydrogen engine, clearing the way for its use and sale in non-road mobile machinery. George Lyon, President of the Royal Highland society, said: “Over the past year, the RHASS Presidency has been promoting new, innovative solutions that farmers can use to meet the challenge of Net Zero. We are delighted that JCB contributed to the Solutions Hub at the show with its new hydrogen engine, which represents an opportunity to switch to a “green” fuel while retaining familiar combustion engine technology.”

Robert Whitaker became the fourth member of his family to win the Al Shira’aa Derby at Hickstead, coming out on top of a three-way jump-off with Caroline Blatchford’s Gentlemen VD Veldhof. Whitaker, 42, produced one of three clears in the first round, with the others coming from cousin William Whitaker (Flamboyant III) and Sammie-Jo Coffin (Chaccomo Blue), who had been drawn first to go. In the jump-off, Sammie-Jo set off in determined fashion, but picked up an early four faults at the white oxer at fence two. Her time of 96.07sec set the target for the others to beat. Robert was clear until the Derby rails, but he crossed the finish in 88.33sec to take the lead. William Whitaker, the 2016 winner who had finished second in 2024 with Flamboyant III, had been clear until the double of white gates. But when the second part of the double fell, William ended up finishing 1.42sec behind his cousin to take the runner up spot. Hickstead has been extremely happy hunting ground for Robert in recent years, as he won the King George V Gold Cup in 2023 and the Agria Nations Cup of Great Britain in 2024, both with Vermento. With this year’s Al Shira’aa Derby win, Robert and his father John Whitaker – a four-time Derby champion – have become the only father and son to win the Hickstead Derby. “Last year, William was quite quick with his horse, so I thought I needed to get a fast round in and put the pressure on. That was basically my plan,” said Robert. Robert got the ride on the 19-year-old gelding last year, with the Derby in mind. “We bought him around November off Tim Gredley. I was really short on horses for the other shows and in the back of my mind I always thought he could win this class, so it was always the plan,” said Robert. Gentlemen VD Veldhof, by Quite Easy 958, is an experienced Hickstead campaigner, having won the 2019 Queen Elizabeth II Cup with Ireland’s David Simpson. He also finished sixth with Joe Clayton in the 2024 Al Shira’aa Derby. “Gentleman has done the Derby a few times before – last year, he was unlucky to have one down and time faults. But he’s been on form for the class, so I knew he had a good chance, and he pulled it off,” added Robert. Asked what it meant to him to win, he said: “Hickstead is special, and the Derby is a special class. Al Shira’aa have really supported it, and that’s great for the sport.” William Whitaker was disappointed not to join the ranks of the Al Shira’aa Derby two-time winners, having come so close for two consecutive years. His ride Flamboyant III is owned by the Smith family and normally campaigned by Elliott Smith, with William picking up the ride for the Derby Meeting for the last two years. “Big congratulations goes to Elliott and the Smith family, because they’ve done all the prep work. Before this Wednesday, the Derby last year was the last time I sat on him,” he said. “I’m delighted with the way he jumped – in the first round he gave me an amazing feeling, and it’s just a pity I couldn’t get the job done!” Cornish rider Sammie-Jo Coffin has been the highest placed lady rider in the Al Shira’aa Derby for three years running, having finished seventh in 2023 and 2024. Third is her highest placing so far with Chaccomo Blue, and she hopes to return next year to bid to become the first woman to win the Hickstead Derby since Tina Fletcher in 2011. “I can’t ask for more, really – he gave me everything,” she said. “He was actually a bit more rideable which was quite nice, because usually I’m fully out of control! I hope we’ll be back next year – he does seem to love the class. He’s a big old scopey chap.” At the press conference, Director of Hickstead Edward Bunn gave thanks to title sponsor Al Shira’aa. “What a fantastic class: Rob put his marker down and Will was a very close second." "This is what showjumping needs, a thrilling competition. The crowds enjoyed it, and hopefully the spectators on the livestream enjoyed it. From the Bunn family, thank you to Al Shira’aa and thank you to these guys for putting on such a wonderful spectacle.” As always, the Derby saw a share of hard luck stories. The 2022 champion Shane Breen jumped clear with Fanfan De Beaufour, only to collect two time penalties to leave him in fourth; while Brazil’s Carlos Mota Ribas was clear with Juan Van’t Arkelhof until the White Balustrade at fence 14, when he lost a stirrup and ended the round with eight faults. Earlier in the day, UAE rider Mabkhout Alkarbi, 16, won the Doney Championship with Harry 233. The show has marked Mabkhout’s first visit to Britain. “This feels very good – a big thank you to Al Shira’aa,” said Mabhout – whose name translates to 'lucky one' or 'champion'. The Al Shira’aa Derby drew the four-day show to a close. Next month, Hickstead plays host to the five star Agria Royal International Horse Show (22-27 July). For full results click here . Photo Credit: Boots and Hooves Photography

A new study of 2,000 respondents released by the UK's leading Out of Home media and infrastructure company, Bauer Media Outdoor, formerly Clear Channel UK, revealed that despite the cost-of-living crisis, UK consumers maintain strong spending power, as 38% of Brits reported spending more of their disposable income now than in the past year. Bauer Media Outdoor’s recent Audiences in Focus report also indicated growth in consumer confidence, with 36% of Brits reporting having less rigid budgets and treating themselves more, compared to the same period last year (20% YoY increase). Focusing on consumer spending power, the report revealed that travel topped the list of disposable income spending for Brits, with 1 in 3 (33%) splashing out on it. Clothes (26%), home improvements (25%), entertainment (23%), and hobbies (20%) round out the top five sources of disposable income spending. The research data shows a clear divide in how each age group uses their disposable income. Gen Z spends their disposable income on snacks (32%) and entertainment (26%), while Millennials prioritise clothes (37%) and travel (30%). Those aged 35 and over spend most of their disposable income on travel, and this preference increases with age. Aberystwyth, Glasgow, London, Manchester, Sunderland, Newcastle, Birmingham, Chelmsford, Belfast and Portsmouth have emerged as the top 10 cities and towns with the greatest increase in disposable income spending over the past year. Contrary to the belief that big cities have a monopoly on spending power, the data shows that people from all over the UK are actively choosing to spend their disposable income. Motivations behind spending disposable income include serving as a mood boost (32%), seeking new experiences (31%), for self-improvement (23%), and in pursuit of social connection (19%). When it comes to generational differences, 18-24-year-olds (32%), 45-54-year-olds (41%), and 55-65-year-olds (34%) prioritise the mood-boosting abilities of spending. An impressive 45% of 25-34-year-olds spend their money in the name of self-improvement. For 35-44-year-olds (38%) and those 65 and over (21%), new experiences are the main reason for supplementary spending. Other key findings from the study: Nearly 1 in 5 (19%) people spend their disposable income on their partner. 1 in 3 (29%) Brits spend their disposable income on themselves, while a similar percentage spend their extra cash on their kids (28%). The higher a person’s income, the more likely they are to spend their disposable income on their kids. 1 in 3 (32%) of Gen Z cite social connection as one of the reasons for spending their disposable income. Interestingly, this reason loses popularity with age. Grocery shopping (69%), travel (31%), eating out (29%), quality time with family (26%), and clothes shopping (18%) are the main categories people spend most of their money on. 1 in 20 (5%) Millennials go out every day, making them more socially active than Gen Z, of whom only 2% do the same. The younger generations are more likely to spend money on socialising than their older counterparts, with 18-24-year-olds (21%) and 24-44-year-olds (18%) investing more in their social lives than 45-64-year-olds (16%) and those aged 65 and over (15%). Nearly 1 in 5 (19%) Gen Z spend their money on watching films. Nearly 1 in 10 (9%) of the younger members of Gen Z spend their income on dating. Ben Hope, Marketing Director at Bauer Media Outdoor UK, says: ‘’It’s a common misconception that only big cities have consumer potential. Our insight challenges that theory. Across the UK, there are consumers with a strong spending power, in cities both big and small." "Our report reinforces the opportunities available and unveils untapped markets for brands, whilst helping them understand how best to reach consumers and map their OOH advertising investment to get more from their media.”

Brambledown Landscape Services Ltd and Johnsons Nurseries have recently collaborated on the delivery of a new dementia-friendly garden at Coronation Park, Cramlington — a key feature within Northumberland County Council’s £3.5 million regeneration programme for the town. Designed by Natasha McEwen of TGP Landscape Architects, the garden was created in partnership with Cramlington Town Council and supported by the UK Government’s Community Ownership Fund. The space was officially opened on 19 May 2025 by Her Grace the Duchess of Northumberland, alongside the Mayor of Cramlington and other local representatives. Located on the former Parkside School playing field, the garden has been designed as a safe, accessible and therapeutic green space for individuals living with dementia, as well as their families and carers. Brambledown carried out the full hard and soft landscaping works, including dementia-considerate resin-bound pathways, a PEFC-certified oak-framed gazebo, raised rendered planters with integrated seating, and biodiversity features such as insect hotels. Johnsons Nurseries supplied more than 2,000 plants, carefully selected to deliver year-round sensory interest, structure, and accessibility. The planting palette included over 150 Geraniums, 80 Astrantias, 70 Salvias, 80 Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’, and 75 Viburnum tinus, along with Daphne ‘Eternal Fragrance’, Lavender, Hellebores, and Cornus species. Brambledown installed the planting to align with dementia-accessibility principles, ensuring the garden not only looks beautiful but also supports well-being and navigation. "This has been one of the most rewarding projects we’ve delivered in recent years,” said Paul Curry, Director at Brambledown Landscape Services Ltd. “Creating a space that’s both beautiful and accessible, while also supporting the specific needs of those living with dementia, is something we’re incredibly proud of." "Every detail — from the layout to the colours and textures — was chosen with care to ensure the garden feels safe, calming, and engaging for all who use it.” “We were delighted to support Brambledown on such a meaningful and community-focused project,” added Graham Richardson, Managing Director of Johnsons Nurseries. “We’ve worked with Brambledown for over 50 years on a wide range of landscape schemes, and it’s always a pleasure to be involved in projects that deliver genuine social value. We hope it will benefit the community for years to come.” The garden is already being enjoyed by the community and marks the first phase of a larger plan for the site, which will eventually include community allotments, an orchard, and further ecological enhancements.

Hundreds of runners are limbering for one of Staffordshire’s oldest charity road races – to help kick-start JCB’s 80th birthday celebrations. More than 130 competitors have already signed up for the JCB Lakeside 5 and Fun Run on Thursday, July 10th – with other entrants now being urged to register for the popular races. The event comprises a five-mile race and two-mile fun run around JCB’s picturesque World Headquarters at Rocester and will raise money for JCB’s £2 million NSPCC Appeal. And as JCB celebrates its 80th anniversary on October 23rd, race entrants are being encouraged to join in the birthday fun by donning digger-themed fancy dress – with a special prize on offer for the best costume. A JCB spokesman said: “The JCB Lakeside 5 and Fun Run has been a firm favourite in the racing calendar for more than 40 years and it’s a real family event which attracts a huge cross section of entrants, from elite runners to beginners. This year is a very special one for JCB and entrants are encouraged to run in JCB digger themed costumes to help make the event a real birthday celebration.” The race was first run in 1983 when just 95 competitors took part, including former JCB employees Mick Grindey, 64, and Charles Bevan, 78, who have run in every race since and will be on the start line again this year.

Big Shots, the furnishing industry’s much-loved clay pigeon shoot in aid of The Furniture Makers’ Company, celebrated its 30th anniversary in spectacular style, raising a record-breaking £46,000. Held on Wednesday 11 June 2025 at the stunning Holland & Holland shooting grounds in Northwood, Middlesex, the milestone event brought together over 160 industry professionals for a thrilling day of sport, camaraderie and charitable giving – all in support of people from the trade facing hardship and to inspire new talent entering the industry. Kicking off with a hearty breakfast, the day got underway with a blast from Holland & Holland’s antique cannon, before teams made their way around ten shooting stands set across 60 acres of countryside. Alongside the main 100-bird competition, guests tested their skills on novelty stands such as flash clays and the ever-popular eight-straight stand. Following a three-course lunch and drinks reception, the celebrations continued with a lively auction and charity raffle, including a special prize donated by Hypnos – a wine collection worth over £2,000 – and the much-enjoyed wine pull, where guests paid for a mystery bottle ranging from fine vintage to cheeky plonk. Among the fierce competition, several shooters stood out: Top Gun Male: Tom Prestwich (Belfield Group) – 106 points Top Gun Female: Nicky Hutten (Minotti) – 81 points Top Gun Novice: Jack Cochrane (Furniture Village) – 89 points Top Team: The Fighting Twenty Fifth (RAF) – 431 points Runner Up Team: Sharpes Shooters (2 Rifles) – 405 points Top Novice Team: Clay-Z and the Snipers (Furniture Village) – 378 points Four Man Flurry Winners: Sharpes Shooters (2 Rifles) – 83 points Special mentions also went to: Worst Male Shot: Billy Sanchez (Furniture Village) – 29 points Worst Female Shot: Susie Bartlett (Furniture Village) – 28 points Charlie Harrison, managing director at principal sponsor Furniture Village, said: “It was a fantastic way to mark 30 years of Big Shots – a brilliant event full of friendly competition and an incredible fundraising total." "We’re proud to continue supporting an industry charity that means so much to us all.” Jonny Westbrooke, CEO of The Furniture Makers’ Company, added: “Big Shots is always a highlight of the year, and this year’s 30th anniversary was truly exceptional. Thank you to everyone who took part, donated, and helped us raise a record £46,000. Your generosity helps us continue our essential work across the industry.” The 31st edition of Big Shots will take place on Wednesday 10 June 2026.

The family business community came together once more in London in the delightful surrounds of the Royal Geographical Society in South Kensington on a beautiful evening to celebrate the contribution that family firms make to the national economy and to crown the winners of the Family Business of the Year Awards 2025. These prestigious awards are a firm fixture in the family business calendar, as they have been since they were introduced by Family Business United back in 2012, and this year once more proved to be a magical and fabulous celebration of the contribution of family businesses to the national economy. Events like these are special and the evening had a palpable mix of excitement, anticipation and community – the essence of being part of a bigger community, the collective sense of pride in being a family business and recognition for some families of their endeavours, for some that have extended over numerous generations. It was a great night and the fact that the sun shone as the day drew to a close helped to create a fantastic atmosphere too. Family businesses are the engine room of the UK economy and with 5 million family firms employing around 15 million people in all corners of the country they make a massive impact each and every day. Incomes are generated, jobs provided and wealth created. “But that is just the tip of the iceberg. Family businesses care and want to be seen as doing the right thing, doing business the right way. As one of the finalists commented as they departed, it has been a pleasure to be involved with these awards. The atmosphere in the room was amazing, a real vibrancy, sense of belonging and comradery with plenty of pride, passion and emotion too and although we did not take home an award it was an absolute pleasure to be in the room with so many other like minded businesses," explains Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United. The audience assembled and the winners were announced and celebrated. Photos taken. Speeches delivered, honest, simple but poignant and certainly heartfelt – celebrating not only those in the room but as representatives of family firms across the UK, recognising that it is the broader family engagement and the teams of people that work in the businesses that help to make the business magic too. "These awards were created to make families in business appreciate the significant impact they have, whether they are large or small, first generation or multigenerational and to recognise the collective importance they have to the economy and communities the length and breadth of the nation," continues Paul. "Doing business the right way is what they do. And do so well. Crowning the winners was great and it remains a pleasure and a privilege to run an organisation that has these businesses at our core, businesses that make a difference and have a real sense of purpose, community, a narrative and real authenticity. We have been delighted and somewhat overwhelmed, once more, by the response and impact that these awards have had and whilst celebrating the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, are already excited about what the future and 2026 Family Business of the Year Awards have in store," he concludes. SUPREME CHAMPION FAMILY BUSINESS OF THE YEAR The Pantry Runners Up: UK Docks Marine Services, Shepherd Neame REGIONAL RESULTS: YORKSHIRE - Sponsored by Western Pension Solutions Winner - John Good Group Runners Up: The Ice Co, HSL NORTH OF ENGLAND & NORTHERN IRELAND - Sponsored by TWYD & CO Winner - UK Docks Marine Services Runners Up: English Lakes Hotels, HMG Paints EAST & EAST ANGLIA - Sponsored by Birketts Winner - Jenolite Runners Up: Rose Calendars, KFE Midlands & Central - Sponsored by Buckles Winner - Cleenol Runners Up: Noble Foods, Matthews Cotswold Flour LONDON & SOUTH EAST - Sponsored by Forsters Winner - The Pantry Runners Up: Shepherd Neame, Croxsons SCOTLAND - Sponsored by Turcan Connell Winner - Stobo Castle Health Spa Runners Up: Apex Hotels, Redpath Bruce SOUTH, SOUTH WEST & WALES - Sponsored by Foot Anstey Winner - Douch Family Funeral Directors Runners Up: HW Facilities, Wyke Farms SECTOR RESULTS: MANUFACTURING Winner - HSL Runners Up: HMG Paints, Cleenol FOOD & DRINK Winner - Noble Foods Runners Up: Regal Food Products Group, Dina Foods PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION - Sponsored by Buckles Winner - Princebuild Runners Up: OCL FINANCIAL & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Winner - Fraser & Fraser Runners Up: Matthew Douglas, Cornish Accounting Solutions TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS Winner - RSP UK Suction Excavators Runners Up: Smiths (Gloucester) Limited HOSPITALITY, HOTEL & LEISURE Winner - Shepherd Neame Runners Up: English Lakes Hotels, Apex Hotels HOMES & GARDENS Winner - Brewers Decrorator Centres Runners Up: Jenolite WHOLESALE & RETAIL Winner - Hill Cross Furniture Runners Up: F. Hinds Jewellers, Aston & James HEALTH & WELFARE Winner - TFP Care Runners Up: Douch Family Funeral Directors PEOPLES CHOICE AWARDS: YORKSHIRE Winner - The Ice Co Runners Up: HSL, Hill Cross Furniture EAST & EAST ANGLIA Winner - Matthew Douglas Runners Up: Smalley Hot Tubs, Objective IT MIDLANDS & CENTRAL Winner - John Pye & Sons Runners Up: Cleenol LONDON & SOUTH EAST Winner - Morgans Dairy Runners Up: Brewers Decorator Centres, Chartway Janitorial NORTH OF ENGLAND & NORTHERN IRELAND Winner - Candour Care Group Runners Up: HMG Paints SCOTLAND Winner - Stobo Castle Health Spa Runners Up: Apex Hotels SOUTH, SOUTH WEST & WALES Winner - HW Facilities Runners Up: Nomadic UK NATIONAL AWARD WINNERS: INNOVATION - Sponsored by Thumbcorp Winner - The Fine Bedding Company Runners Up: Food Attraction, John Good Group SUSTAINABILITY  - Sponsored by Barclays Winner - The Ice Co Runners Up: HW Facilities, Noble Foods ENTREPRENEURSHIP  - Sponsored by Rickard Luckin Winner - The Cambridge Juice Company Runners Up: - Croxsons, The Pantry POSITIVE SOCIETAL IMPACT Winner - OCL Runners Up: Cleenol, Princebuild COMMUNITY SUPPORT & INVOLVEMENT   Winner - UK Docks Marine Services Runners Up: Brewers Decorator Centres ESSENCE OF FAMILY BUSINESS  - Sponsored by Goodman Jones Winner - Croxsons Runners Up: Matthews Cotswold Flour, Aston & James SMALL FAMILY BUSINESS  - Sponsored by Mighty Atoms Winner - The Becklands School Runners Up: Jenolite, Aston & James NATIONAL PEOPLES CHOICE Winner - Stobo Castle Health Spa Family businesses are at the heart of what we do here at Family Business United. Congratulations go to all the finalists and of course the winners. Enjoy the celebrations! We cannot wait to follow the next steps in the journey of your businesses and of course, return next year to announce the winners of the 2026 Family Business of the Year Awards too! If you want to find out more and be notified about the 2026 awards or want to find out more about becoming a judge or an award sponsor we would love to hear from you. Simply complete the contact us form and we will be in touch. In the meantime, check out the full gallery of images from a fabulous evening here:

Replin by Hainsworth has unveiled its latest transport fabric collection for the aviation industry. Designed and woven at the company’s heritage woollen mill in the UK, the collection includes seven new fabric themes tailored for vertical and seating surfaces within aircraft cabins. The new range was developed to meet evolving aesthetic, technical and environmental requirements for transport fabrics, and includes structured weaves and textural surfaces across the collection’s seven themes, focusing on comfort, quality, weight optimisation, and design versatility. Several of the fabrics have been woven entirely using undyed fibres, leading the way in sustainable material development for vertical and seating applications. The fabrics feature boucle and melange yarns, with some fabrics 100% undyed. The manufacturer developed the fabrics using an integrated design process. This enables the design team to produce bespoke visuals for client briefs, supporting both design houses and airline teams that seek innovative textile solutions and specific branding and weight requirements. The company recently invested in new software which includes advanced 3D visualisation technology that enables the creation of realistic fabric simulations. The sustainable transport collection was created in response to growing industry demand for natural colours and textures, as well as reduced environmental impact, blending deep textile heritage with modern design and textile manufacturing innovation. Merino, alpaca and shetland wool have been used throughout the collection, and each fabric meets strict international airline performance and safety standards. Susan Billett, Design and Product Development Manager at AW Hainsworth and Replin by Hainsworth, explains, “I took inspiration from the environment and the habitats of alpaca and sheep for this collection, exploring the colours and textures in the natural landscape that surrounds them. I wanted to make sure each fabric was aesthetically appealing and soft to touch, so I worked closely with finishing to make sure the final product was comforting and homely, while being abrasion-resistant and durable for high-traffic seating areas and vertical surfaces.” The brand, established in 1945, supplies transport fabrics for global airline and rail companies and counts British Airways, Lufthansa, American Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Virgin Atlantic among its customers. Replin by Hainsworth’s transport fabrics division has also recently joined the Green Cabin Alliance, committing to mindful manufacturing, supporting an industry-wide cultural shift in attitudes towards sustainability, and aligning with parent brand AW Hainsworth's core vision and values. The Green Cabin Alliance brings together experts and organisations from the aircraft interiors industry whose shared aim is to reduce the environmental impact of aviation cabin interiors.

Arco, the UK’s leading safety company, has become the safety industry’s first participant in the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) carbon reduction model, paving the way towards its net zero aim. To do this, Arco has committed to reducing its absolute scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from purchased goods and services 42 per cent by FY2030 from a FY2021 base year. (The target boundary includes land-related emissions from commodities such as cotton and rubber used in Arco products and removals from bioenergy feedstocks). The SBTi is a global body enabling businesses to set ambitious emissions reduction targets, in line with the latest climate science and a 1.5 degree of global warming. Arco revealed its science-based net zero target is focused on prioritising the reduction of emissions across all scopes to reach net zero emissions by 2045. Jim Harbidge, Head of Sustainability at Arco said: “We are pleased to have our ambitious net zero targets approved by the SBTi. Publicly committing to these targets enhances our accountability and authenticates the work we’ve been doing over the past few years to reduce our carbon emissions." “Last year we hit a significant milestone, reducing our Scope 2 carbon emissions by 21.2 per cent in a single year. It’s therefore critical that we continue to accelerate the delivery of sustainability across the business as we look ahead at our long-term 2045 net zero targets.”

Ole & Steen, the Danish bakery and coffee house, has announced another year of strong performance and positive financial growth following a focused period of strategic execution for the brand. Ole & Steen, home of the freshly baked Cinnamon Social, reported solid 25% EBITDA increase after a year marked by continued investment and operational discipline. EBITDA for the year rose to £4,890,689, up from £3,926,824 in 2023, highlighting the success of efficiency measures and improved performance in the latter half of the year. Ole & Steen also reported a 5% growth in turnover for the year ending December 31, 2024, with revenue increasing to £36,684,837 from £34,820,879 in 2023. The company’s performance was bolstered by an outstanding finish to the year, with Q4 delivering +17% like-for-like sales growth, firmly re-establishing Ole & Steen’s position as London’s favourite Danish bakery and coffee house. This positive momentum has continued into 2025. Growth reflects sustained momentum across all 26 London stores, driven by organic sales improvements, enhanced digital capability, product innovation, and consistent execution of the company’s Refocused Strategy introduced in April 2024. The company’s investment in its London production facility in Leyton has delivered tangible benefits in consistent product quality and cost efficiency, laying a solid foundation for continued profitable growth in the UK. Ole & Steen UK Managing Director Graham Hollinshead said: “2024 was a year of strong and focused execution for Ole & Steen as we delivered organic top-line sales growth of 5%, reaching £36.7 million across our 26 London stores. In addition, our EBITDA increased by £964k to £4.9 million, a 25% year-on-year uplift. This performance was driven by a stellar finish to the year, with Q4 delivering +17% like-for-like sales growth, firmly re-establishing our position as London’s favourite Danish bakery and coffee house. This positive momentum has continued into 2025." “The foundation for our success was the Group Refocused Strategy launched in April 2024. This strategy has reaffirmed our identity as The Danish Bakery and Coffee House in London. We’ve invested heavily in our stores, teams, service standards, and digital capability. From extended opening hours to seasonal product development, we’re meeting our customers where they are – in-store, online, and on special occasions like New Year, Halloween, and Valentine’s Day." “As we moved into autumn, we recorded some of our best trading weeks ever. October saw the launch of our highly successful “Treat of the Week” campaign, showcasing a different signature Danish pastry each week at a special price point. The response has been outstanding, and we’ll continue the offer throughout 2025.” Graham added: “Innovation remains at the heart of what we do. In 2024, we launched a series of standout products from our award-winning Christmas Turkey Toastie to the beautifully crafted Cardamom Bun. And who could forget the festive twist on our iconic Cinnamon Social, reimagined as a limited-edition Christmas Chocolate and Orange Social with orange jam, custard, and chocolate icing." “Customer convenience is core to our brand experience. In 2024, we expanded to three major delivery platforms and introduced a new web-based ordering portal to better serve offices and B2B clients. Meanwhile, our Loyalty App membership grew by over 40%, with strong engagement across features like Click & Collect, loyalty rewards, and exclusive offers." “At the heart of our Refocus Strategy was a clear mission to win our customers back. Thanks to the passion, hard work, and commitment of our incredible team.” Looking ahead, the business is poised to maintain strong trading performance and capitalise on efficiencies throughout 2025. Ole & Steen, known for its iconic Cinnamon Social and authentic Danish pastries, continues to focus on delighting customers with seasonal menu innovations and superior service. Recent highlights include the successful launch of a limited-edition Gelato in partnership with Badiani and strong performance of newly introduced core items.

Sustainability must form the core of economic theory and policy, rather than being an afterthought in order to have any chance at making a positive impact, according to a new paper from Rotterdam School of Management Erasmus University (RSM). The argument, set out by Hans Stegeman, Chief Economist and Group Director Impact & Economics at Triodos Bank, in his dissertation; 'Transforming Economics for Sustainability', states that as long as sustainability does not form the core of economic theory and policy, attempts at creating sustainable change remain superficial, fragmented and ultimately ineffective. "If you keep looking through old worldviews, you never make the transition to a new economy. And if you don't do that, the end of our current economic system is inevitable. It will collapse," Stegeman says. His paper sets out the structural problem that exists in economic practice. Economic theory, it notes, has historically developed as a response to the problems of its time. In the post-World War II period, the emphasis was on material scarcity and reconstruction – hence the focus on growth, productivity and efficiency. But many of those assumptions, Stegeman shares, have since solidified into economic orthodoxy, even though modern challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and structural inequality are fundamentally different. "We still treat environmental damage and social inequality as external factors," states Stegeman. "But if we take sustainability seriously, that must be our starting point." The central question Stegeman addresses in his dissertation is: how can we integrate sustainability – defined as the condition of a system that maintains itself both ecologically and socially continuously and indefinitely – into economic theory, policy and practice? Stegeman’s paper identifies five key insights: There is no single form of wellbeing : What people need to live well varies by situation. Ecological recovery requires something different than social connection. Policymakers must therefore better examine which type of wellbeing should be central in a particular domain. Interconnected systems create knock-on challenges : Economic, ecological and social systems are interdependent. Economic activities often directly impact the environment, while social systems determine how people interact with their surroundings. When one system reaches certain limits, it can negatively affect other systems. For example, climate change (an ecological problem) can lead to food shortages (an economic and social problem). We must abandon the idea that adding up all personal choices gives a good picture of what is good for society as a whole : Collective interests may conflict with individual preferences. This is precisely where social relationships and institutions play a crucial role in finding positive routes forward. Worldviews shape institutions : What is seen as 'realistic' policy is often based on prevailing mindsets rather than actual necessity. Gradual improvement is not enough : For major problems like climate change or biodiversity loss, we often think we can improve step by step. But this idea comes from a worldview where systems are stable and natural steady growth leads to solutions. In reality, many systems work with tipping points: if we react too late, the whole system collapses. Based on these insights, Stegeman’s paper makes several policy recommendations, advocating for thorough adaptation of macroeconomic models with ecological boundaries and social foundations at their centre, fiscal and financial instruments focused on promoting long-term public value rather than short-term efficiency, and new forms of collaboration where different groups can participate in decision-making. Sustainability, he concludes, should no longer be seen as a brake on the economy, but as the foundation for a new form of economic progress.