Family businesses often embody generations of hard work, dedication, and a deep sense of heritage. Maintaining control of such a business within the bloodline is often a top priority for families. However, life events such as marriage and divorce can pose risks to this continuity, particularly when it comes to ownership shares. This is where post-nuptial agreements—legal contracts signed after marriage—play a vital role. What is a Post-Nuptial Agreement? A post-nuptial agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the division of assets, financial responsibilities, and other terms in the event of a divorce or separation. Unlike a pre-nuptial agreement, which is signed before marriage, a post-nuptial agreement is executed after the couple has already tied the knot. While post-nuptial agreements can address general marital assets, they are particularly useful for family businesses aiming to secure their assets for future generations. How Post-Nuptial Agreements Protect Family Businesses Ensuring Shares Stay in the Family A primary concern for family-run businesses is the potential for ownership shares to pass to a non-family member through divorce. Without safeguards, a divorcing spouse could claim a portion of the business, leading to an outsider having influence or ownership in the company. A post-nuptial agreement can stipulate that any shares in the family business remain within the family, regardless of the outcome of the marriage. Mitigating Financial Risks Divorce proceedings often result in the liquidation or redistribution of marital assets, which can disrupt business operations. By clearly defining how the business will be handled in such scenarios, a post-nuptial agreement can protect the company from financial turmoil, ensuring its long-term stability and growth. Preserving Decision-Making Control Family businesses thrive on shared values and decision-making among trusted members. A post-nuptial agreement can prevent a scenario where a non-family member gains decision-making power through their acquired shares. This preserves the company's vision and cohesion. Clarifying Ownership Boundaries Post-nuptial agreements allow families to delineate which aspects of the business are marital property and which are personal or family property. This clarity reduces disputes and ensures that the business’s core assets remain intact. Supporting Successor Planning For families focused on legacy, post-nuptial agreements can play a critical role in succession planning. By keeping shares in the bloodline, these agreements ensure that future generations can take the reins without interference or dilution of ownership. Key Considerations for Post-Nuptial Agreements When drafting a post-nuptial agreement for a family business, it’s essential to consider the following: Transparency and Fairness Both spouses should fully disclose their financial assets, liabilities, and business interests to ensure the agreement is enforceable and fair. Legal Expertise Since family businesses often involve complex structures, it’s crucial to work with legal professionals who specialize in business law and family law. Their expertise can help address any nuances specific to the company and jurisdiction. Involvement of All Stakeholders While the agreement is primarily between spouses, involving key family members in the process can promote trust and alignment with the family’s broader goals. Periodic Reviews Post-nuptial agreements should be revisited periodically to reflect changes in the business, family circumstances, or the law. "Post-nuptial agreements offer a powerful tool for family businesses to safeguard their assets, maintain control, and ensure the continuity of their legacy. By addressing the unique challenges posed by marriage and divorce, these agreements can provide peace of mind and stability, ensuring that the family business remains a source of pride and prosperity for generations to come."

Traditional long-term leases for business storage are becoming less popular as companies move to short-term ones instead. According to Dorset-headquartered Store & Secure, the increasing pressures on businesses are prompting them to take a more flexible approach. Traditionally, a company requiring storage might take out a long-term lease on a unit even if it wasn’t required all the time. Now they are shopping around and finding that renting a unit on a monthly or even weekly basis is more cost-effective. Lucy Maidman and sister Sophie – aka the Storage Sisters – have run numerous storage businesses. The pair now run a huge facility in Hamworthy, Poole, and have noticed the trend grow. Lucy said: “With a cost-of-living crisis and pressure on businesses we are seeing facilities like ours becoming more popular for companies. We have seen more retail businesses going online and using our facility to store stock." “And now we are receiving more enquires from businesses in all sectors who are shopping around for storage and looking for flexibility. They see long leases as a risk and an expense that can be reduced. They are preferring short-term leases for storage, which can be just a week long, for example." “We offer rolling leases so companies can end them as they please and make as many savings as possible – sometimes tens of thousands of pounds a year.    Storage facilities like ours are often viewed as places where people put things while they move house, but they are much more than that." “We have serviced offices, outside containers and storage rooms of varying sizes with all the security required – both physical and digital. The flexibility we offer and speed with which clients can hire a unit and put their stock inside is a major attraction." “From talking to others in the storage sector I think this trend is widespread. It also allows some businesses to find small, cheaper premises knowing when they need storage it is always available.” Above Photo:  Lucy and Sophie Maidman, the ‘Storage Sisters’, either side of colleague Kavan Wood

A leading specialist in agricultural and commercial insurance, Dallas Scott Davey (DSD), has appointed Toby Baker as part of its strategic growth and ongoing specialisation in estates and farm insurance. DSD is part of Yorkshire headquartered insurance broking and risk management firm, TL Dallas. Toby, a highly experienced rural risks insurance broker, will be an integral part of the Lincoln team, heading up the company’s expansion into Northamptonshire and the surrounding counties. Toby lives in Pilton, Northamptonshire, and joins DSD, which is part of the TL Dallas Group, following a long and successful career at Lycetts. He will focus on serving farming and estate clients across Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Warwickshire, and beyond. As part of DSD’s expansion strategy, the company also plans to establish a satellite office within a livestock mart, providing a local physical presence to better serve clients in the region. “I’m thrilled to be joining DSD at such an exciting time for the business,” said Toby. “The family and employee-owned company’s commitment to providing specialist agricultural insurance solutions aligns perfectly with my experience and passion for supporting rural businesses. I look forward to growing the client base and offering tailored insurance solutions across the region.” Ed Davey, co-founder of DSD, said: “Toby’s wealth of experience in farm and estate insurance makes him a fantastic addition to the team. His deep understanding of rural risks and his commitment to outstanding client service will be instrumental in strengthening our presence beyond our Lincolnshire heartland. We are delighted to have him on board.” Since its launch in Lincolnshire in late 2021, DSD has rapidly expanded, establishing a strong client base across the UK. The firm operates from Plowright House, located on the University of Lincoln’s former agricultural campus at the Riseholme Estate - an ideal hub for an agricultural insurance specialist. In addition to its expertise in agricultural insurance, DSD also offers specialist insurance solutions for businesses, with a particular focus on the health and care sector and sports clubs. With a growing team and an emphasis on exceptional customer care, the firm continues to expand its footprint, and has recently partnered with the Lincolnshire Football Association, Lincoln City Football Club and the Lincolnshire Care Association to provide a range of insurance solutions.

Cleanology, the multi-award winning UK office and commercial cleaning company, has rebranded in a bold and exciting live launch marked by the projection of its vibrant new logo against iconic London landmarks. The dramatic unveiling – the last stage of a nine-month project conducted in consultation with customers, suppliers, staff and stakeholders - comes at a pivotal moment for the company as it enters its 25th year of trading with a record-breaking £2m of new contracts being mobilised this month. The rebrand launch - which was livestreamed on global social media platforms LinkedIn and Instagram - saw Cleanology introduce its new logo of a heart icon in eye-catching shades of green and blue. In Wednesday night’s livestream, the new logo and short reel were projected on to world-famous London landmarks including the Royal Festival Hall and Tower Bridge. Dominic Ponniah, CEO and Co-Founder of Cleanology, hosted the livestream launch from the Royal Festival Hall close to the River Thames and then repeated the stunt later that evening at other locations around the capital. Mr Ponniah enthused: “Our new logo visually represents the care and attention we bring to every aspect of our business. We are a people business at heart and this logo is a better representation of us as a business in this modern age." "When it’s done right, cleaning is about more than perfect outcomes. It’s about the love and care that get us there, such as the way we champion progress in the industry through science and innovation and the way we look after our environment by adopting sustainable practices and technology that put the planet first”. Echoing the messaging behind the rebrand, Mr Ponniah added: “This is not just about cleaning done well – it’s cleaning done right: for our people, for the planet, for your future." Recently Cleanology – previously known for its iconic green and blue flag branding - was awarded the highly coveted Gold Partnership Status by the people-powered charity and social movement, The Hygiene Bank, in recognition of its ongoing efforts to champion the movement to tackle hygiene poverty in the UK. Over the last four years Cleanology has raised over £117,000 for the charity, helping to fund vital initiatives. Cleanology – headquartered in Vauxhall, south west London, and with regional offices in Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol and Scotland – runs campaigns throughout the year to raise funds and awareness for hygiene poverty, and staff participate in fund-raising opportunities such as marathons. The family owned and run company has been providing professional commercial and office cleaning services, property maintenance and support services across the UK for almost a quarter of a century. Clients range from blue-chip corporates to royal palaces and some of the world’s most famous brands. Cleanology’s ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) leadership has earned it multiple national and international awards, including the Best Small to Medium Business award at the Lloyd’s Bank British Excellence Awards, Scale Up Awards for ESG & Social Impact and Best Overall Scale Up, as well as a finalist spot for the Diversity in the Workplace award at the European Cleaning and Hygiene Awards. The company holds The Planet Mark certification, has recently been Carbon Neutral certified, and is working towards B-Corp status, EcoVadis medals, and Net Zero by 2035. Cleanology has also pioneered eco-friendly innovations, including portion-controlled biological cleaning sachets and staff uniforms made from recycled plastic bottles, saving over 143,000 pieces of plastic in the past year alone. The company also prioritises fair pay, with 99% of employees receiving the Real Living Wage, a significant rise from 18% in 2017. Its fully electric van fleet in London eliminates 13.5 tonnes of CO2 annually, and its head office runs entirely on sustainable energy. Mr Ponniah is a member of the ISSA (International Sanitary Supply Association) Sustainability Committee, ensuring Cleanology’s influence extends beyond the UK.

One of Cornwall’s oldest coaching inns, which has hosted renowned historical figures - including kings and poets - reopens following a transformative refurbishment by owners St Austell Brewery. Nestled among towering clifftops in the heart of the quaint harbour village of Boscastle, The Wellington boasts a stunning new look, complete with an extensive terrace dining area, alongside three bar and restaurant spaces. Its 14 bedrooms and three family-sized apartments have also been elegantly and sensitively renovated. The reopening of the pub, affectionately known as ‘The Welly’, marks the first of three investment projects across St Austell Brewery’s 45-strong managed pub estate this year. The highly anticipated transformations at Pedn Olva in St Ives and the Royal Castle in Dartmouth will follow later this year. The Wellington’s new design, inspired by its rich history - including its resilience through the devastating 2004 flood - draws from the surrounding woodland and coastal landscape. Original features such as the large open fire in the main bar, stained-glass panelling, and other period details have been lovingly preserved, ensuring a connection between past and present. Additionally, the restoration of a previously condemned fireplace means the pub now boasts three open fires, further enhancing its warmth and character. St Austell Brewery has introduced a locals’ snug area and additional intimate dining spaces on the first floor. The careful design blends tradition and modernity, ensuring that the heart and soul of the building have been preserved. The newly extended bar will also offer a wider selection of St Austell Brewery’s award-winning beers. With the addition of the terrace, the pub will boast 125 covers inside and 100 outside. A revamped food menu, championing local produce, will feature the freshest fish from Matthew Stevens, meat sourced from Redruth-based butcher Brian Etherington and artisanal bread from Baker Toms. Guests can choose from three room types: The Welly Rooms - super-premium suites with spacious layouts, the best views, and thoughtful touches to enhance the stay, as well as premium and cabin rooms, offering a variety of accommodation options. The Wellington also features 10 dog-friendly bedrooms, with all rooms providing plush swim robes and beach bags for guests to use, whether for a harbour dip or a visit to the secret tidal pool just steps away. Andrew Turner, Chief Operating Officer at St Austell Brewery, said: “We are incredibly excited to be reopening The Wellington, the first of three major refurbishments across our managed estate this year. When we acquired the pub three years ago, we had a vision of what it could be and following this investment, we believe that The Wellington has been transformed for the next chapter of its wonderful history. We can’t wait to welcome our regulars and visitors back to showcase our award-winning hospitality.” Past guests include King Edward VII and the esteemed novelist and poet Thomas Hardy, who gifted the pub intricate brass and ruby glass oil lamps. These historic fixtures take pride of place in the guest areas, complemented by modern design touches and historic artwork that celebrate the building’s evolution. The Spy Glass, which can be booked for private functions, and Chart Room upstairs, offer northerly views through tall windows that rise across the hill above the River Valency. The names of the rooms pay homage to the area’s maritime heritage, with their walls adorned with images of Arthur Wellesley, The Duke of Wellington, after whom the building is named. Natasha Milne, Property Director at St Austell Brewery who has overseen the project, said: “We are delighted to unveil the transformation of The Wellington. Our focus has been on preserving its character and heritage while incorporating modern touches, including a welcoming and accessible outdoor seating area. We’re excited for both locals and visitors to experience it, and we can’t wait to hear their thoughts.” The Wellington forms part of St Austell Brewery’s growing managed estate across the South West, and its pub team - who have been working at other St Austell Brewery pubs during the four-month renovation - is being led by general manager Taylor Cameron. This project follows the success of previous major renovations, including the Pier House in Charlestown, the Rising Sun in St Mawes and the Masons Arms in Branscombe.

Westlands Farm Shop near Wickham is gearing up for a busy weekend of lambing, educating the public on British farming practices. Running across the first four days of the school Easter holidays, from Sat 5th - Tue 8th of April, Westlands Lambing Days will give families the chance to see adorable new-born lambs up close and hear from expert farmers. This year is particularly special for Westlands, as it marks the first Lambing Weekend since opening its Winchester store in November 2024. With a brand-new audience in the city, the farm is excited to welcome even more visitors and introduce them to the realities of British farming. Kayleigh Collett, who runs the farm with her husband Graham, said: “Lambing season remains one of the most exciting times of the year for us, and we love sharing it with the public." “This year is particularly special as we welcome visitors from Winchester for the first time since opening our second store. It’s a fantastic opportunity to educate a wider audience about British farming and give them a firsthand experience of life on the farm.”

Navigating the intricate landscape of a family business is a journey filled with both rewarding milestones and formidable challenges. Among the most daunting of these challenges is initiating and engaging in difficult conversations. These discussions often unearth past traumas or unresolved issues, making them particularly sensitive and complex. However, addressing these topics is essential for the health and longevity of both the family and the business. The Reluctance To Engage In family enterprises, the lines between personal and professional relationships are inherently blurred. This intertwining can lead to a reluctance to address sensitive subjects, as family members may fear damaging personal bonds or disrupting business harmony. Avoidance, however, often leads to long-term resentment and business stagnation. I know this struggle personally. In my own family, I found myself as the one who took the lead in ensuring we had the difficult conversations that everyone was avoiding. At first, it was deeply uncomfortable. There were moments of defensiveness, frustration, and even tears. But I knew that if we continued to sidestep these crucial discussions, the issues would only fester and grow more complicated. The Weight Of Unresolved Histories Family businesses carry the weight of shared histories, which can include past traumas and unresolved conflicts. These lingering issues can resurface during business discussions, adding layers of complexity to decision-making processes. When I started facilitating these conversations in my own family, I quickly realized that our business disagreements were often rooted in personal grievances from years—sometimes decades—before. Tensions that seemed to be about financial decisions or company leadership were, in reality, tied to childhood experiences, perceived injustices, and long-standing emotional wounds. It became clear that if we wanted our business to thrive, we needed to heal as a family first. Strategies For Facilitating Difficult Conversations Create a Safe Environment Establishing a space where family members feel safe to express their thoughts and emotions is paramount. This involves setting ground rules that promote respect, active listening, and confidentiality. Encouraging open dialogue without fear of judgment can pave the way for more honest and productive discussions. Acknowledge and Address Past Issues Recognizing the impact of past traumas and unresolved conflicts is a critical step. By bringing these issues to light, families can work collaboratively to heal and move forward. This process requires empathy, patience, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. Engage Neutral Facilitators Sometimes, the presence of a neutral third party can help mediate discussions and provide unbiased perspectives. Facilitators can guide conversations, ensure that all voices are heard, and help navigate emotionally charged topics. Develop Clear Communication Channels Establishing regular family meetings with structured agendas can provide a platform for ongoing communication. This consistency helps in addressing issues before they escalate and ensures that everyone remains informed and involved in decision-making processes. Prioritize Emotional Intelligence Cultivating emotional intelligence within the family fosters empathy and understanding. Encouraging family members to develop self-awareness and emotional regulation can lead to more constructive interactions and conflict resolution. Set Boundaries Between Personal and Professional Roles Clearly defining when discussions pertain to family matters versus business matters can help in managing expectations and reducing misunderstandings. This delineation allows individuals to navigate their roles more effectively and maintain healthier relationships. The Role of Leadership Leaders within the family business play a crucial role in modelling and promoting open communication. By demonstrating vulnerability and a willingness to engage in difficult conversations, they set a precedent for others to follow. This leadership fosters a culture where addressing challenges is normalized and encouraged. For me, stepping into this role within my family was not easy. There were times I questioned whether I was making things worse instead of better. But over time, as we developed a habit of open and honest communication, we saw real progress—not just in our business operations but in our relationships as well. Trust grew stronger, and tensions that had once been insurmountable slowly began to dissolve. The Benefits of Embracing Difficult Conversations While initiating these conversations can be uncomfortable, the long-term benefits are substantial. Open dialogue can lead to: Strengthened Relationships : Addressing and resolving conflicts can deepen trust and understanding among family members. Enhanced Business Performance : Clear communication leads to better decision-making and a more cohesive strategic vision. Personal Growth : Individuals develop resilience and improved interpersonal skills through navigating challenging discussions. Conclusion In the dynamic environment of a family business, difficult conversations are not just inevitable—they are essential. By proactively creating spaces for open dialogue, acknowledging past issues, and fostering a culture of empathy and respect, families can transform challenges into opportunities for growth. Taking on this role in my own family was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but it was also one of the most rewarding. Embracing these conversations paved the way for a more harmonious family dynamic and a thriving business legacy. And while it wasn’t easy, I wouldn’t trade the progress we made for anything. About the Author - Kyler Gilbert is a Consultant and Vice President at Business Consulting Resources (BCR), a family owned professional services organisation that has been championing successful transformations for 40 years. They provide a comprehensive portfolio of consulting service solutions to help solve complex problems. Find out more about their work with family businesses here

Responding to the news that tariffs will be imposed on UK firms exporting to the US, Tina McKenzie, Policy Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “The news of 10 per cent tariffs on UK-US trade is a major blow to SMEs. Currently, 59 per cent of small UK exporters sell into the US market." “Tariffs will cause untold damage to small businesses trying to trade their way into profit while the domestic economy remains flat. The fallout will stifle growth, hurt opportunities, and put a serious dent in the global economy. Now, we’ll need to look at the fine print to work out the precise implications for the UK’s small exporters." “We support the push for an agreement between the UK and US governments that brings an end to tariff wars and puts SMEs at its centre by reducing non-tariff barriers." “It’s already tough out there for small firms wanting to export. However, the opportunities it brings are endless – allowing them to tap into new markets and diversify their revenue streams. Those who do export are more likely to grow faster during tough economic times, too." “The UK Government should now be ready to provide emergency assistance to any SMEs at risk of collapse. This will provide breathing space and support, protect people's wages, and ensure that suppliers owed payments are paid - all helping to contain the fallout and allow firms a bridge as they adapt.”

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