More and more businesses are finding that employees are driving activism around topics and issues in the workplace that are important to them. In fact, 59% of employers expect employee activism to increase even further. But what are some key topics that could trigger employee activism in the workplace? And what can employers do to address them? We’ve outlined four of the most important that are likely to circulate in conversations and must be addressed. Cost Of Living And Pay Concerns The cost of living is a huge concern to residents of the UK, with the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) finding that consumer prices are 3.4% higher compared to the previous year. Pair this with the Labour Market Outlook: Winter 2023/2024 from the CIPD finding that basic pay increases are expected to fall to 4%, which is the first decline since spring 2020. As the gap between the cost of living and salaries grows, it’s likely that employee activism will focus on seeking increased pay. It is important for businesses to take note of how this might affect headcount in their workplace, as talented workers will begin looking elsewhere for better pay, which could, in turn, damage their reputation. Sustainability And Environmental Impact As public perception of sustainability becomes more prevalent, so does that of workers throughout the UK. Research by KPMG found that 20% of UK office workers would turn down a role if environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors of a business were deemed as ‘lacking’. This shows the shifting importance of prioritising sustainability in business strategies when looking at employee retention and attraction, especially to avoid activism. There are several ways that employers can emphasise their commitment to sustainability and ESG, such as investing in more energy-efficient solutions and developing greener products and services through the materials used for production and packaging. Ben Mercer of Leisure Lakes Bikes , a leading retailer of quality road bikes in the UK, has outlined where offering a cycle-to-work scheme could help promote their sustainability commitments: “Encouraging workforces to embrace different ways of commuting to and from work helps to promote sustainability as a major concern from employers, particularly to move away from relying on motor vehicles." "Not only does cycling offer a carbon-less travel option but promotes travel that can benefit both physical and mental wellbeing, which exercise like cycling is deeply connected with.” Automation, AI, And Job Security Emerging technology, while exciting, offers a daunting look into the future for workers across various industries who may fear that their jobs are at risk of becoming automated. IPPR analysis found that as many as eight million jobs in the UK could become at risk of AI fully displacing the human element of the job. It’s important for businesses to engage with and integrate emerging technologies into strategies to stay competitive within their respective industries. However, it’s crucial to outline to employees that the human element is still essential to processes and operations. Refocusing the perspective from human replacement to working aid is one way to encourage workers to experiment with AI and automation tools to streamline monotonous and repetitive tasks and focus more attention on higher-value ones. Equality, Diversity, And Discrimination (EDI) One subject that shouldn’t fall down the list of priorities for businesses to avoid an increase in employee activism is equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) strategies. Data from Barnett Waddingham found that around 72% of HR directors and C-suite professionals who were surveyed outlined that employee demands for EDI focus were of concern for their business. Businesses that invest in diversity and inclusivity have been found to actually perform better, with a McKinsey report from 2023 finding that companies within the top quartile for ethnic diversity are improved by as much as 27% financially compared to competitors. This is why it’s important to consider candidates from various backgrounds when recruiting. Discrimination doesn’t just extend to gender, race, and ability, as social discrimination is also a factor that must be considered. This extends to mental health and wellbeing not being supported by employers, which could lead to employees seeking a new job elsewhere. Employers expressing their support for individuals with neurodiversity issues and mental health concerns, both in hiring and within their current ranks, could help build more empathy within their company for their day-to-day struggles. By addressing complex topics instead of avoiding them, you can create a culture of communication and better engage your employees. This helps human resources departments explore options and strategies to prioritise happiness within the workplace and build for the future.

Essex firm Sybron, a leading family run UK supplier of cleaning, hygiene and catering products to some of the largest names in hospitality, has been appointed as the preferred distribution partner in the UK for My Drap, as the company seeks to expand its UK business. Owned by Texia, My Drap is a market leader in the design and manufacture of single-use fabric coasters, napkins and placemats, made from premium, natural materials such as 100% cotton, recycled cotton and linen. The range also includes table products suitable for bathrooms in luxury hotels and restaurants. All products can be customised, branded and shipped pre-cut, in rolls, flat or folded to suit customers requirements. A family-owned business based in Barcelona, Texia continuously innovates so that its products are increasingly environmentally responsible. It is a member of the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) which works to improve global cotton production both for the people who produce it and for the environment it grows in, to secure a better future for the sector. Sybron is based at Crammond Park, Harlow. “While My Drap has long maintained a UK presence, we wanted a trusted partner to further amplify and strengthen our brand and business here,” says Texia’s area sales manager, Carla Vila. “Our strategic partnership with Sybron marks a significant milestone in our commitment to delivering unparalleled quality and service to our valued UK customers. We are very confident in their ability to represent our brand.” “As a forward-thinking and dynamic business, we continually seek out new collaborations to enhance our product offering,” says Sybron Sales and Marketing Director, George Mason. “My Drap aligns perfectly with our ethos and their commitment to sustainability resonates deeply with Sybron's values. Their products boast an unmatched level of quality, setting them apart from other disposable alternatives in the market.”

Essex firm Sybron, a leading family run UK supplier of cleaning, hygiene and catering products to some of the largest names in hospitality, has been appointed as the preferred distribution partner in the UK for My Drap, as the company seeks to expand its UK business. Owned by Texia, My Drap is a market leader in the design and manufacture of single-use fabric coasters, napkins and placemats, made from premium, natural materials such as 100% cotton, recycled cotton and linen. The range also includes table products suitable for bathrooms in luxury hotels and restaurants. All products can be customised, branded and shipped pre-cut, in rolls, flat or folded to suit customers requirements. A family-owned business based in Barcelona, Texia continuously innovates so that its products are increasingly environmentally responsible. It is a member of the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) which works to improve global cotton production both for the people who produce it and for the environment it grows in, to secure a better future for the sector. Sybron is based at Crammond Park, Harlow. “While My Drap has long maintained a UK presence, we wanted a trusted partner to further amplify and strengthen our brand and business here,” says Texia’s area sales manager, Carla Vila. “Our strategic partnership with Sybron marks a significant milestone in our commitment to delivering unparalleled quality and service to our valued UK customers. We are very confident in their ability to represent our brand.” “As a forward-thinking and dynamic business, we continually seek out new collaborations to enhance our product offering,” says Sybron Sales and Marketing Director, George Mason. “My Drap aligns perfectly with our ethos and their commitment to sustainability resonates deeply with Sybron's values. Their products boast an unmatched level of quality, setting them apart from other disposable alternatives in the market.”

More and more businesses are finding that employees are driving activism around topics and issues in the workplace that are important to them. In fact, 59% of employers expect employee activism to increase even further. But what are some key topics that could trigger employee activism in the workplace? And what can employers do to address them? We’ve outlined four of the most important that are likely to circulate in conversations and must be addressed. Cost Of Living And Pay Concerns The cost of living is a huge concern to residents of the UK, with the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) finding that consumer prices are 3.4% higher compared to the previous year. Pair this with the Labour Market Outlook: Winter 2023/2024 from the CIPD finding that basic pay increases are expected to fall to 4%, which is the first decline since spring 2020. As the gap between the cost of living and salaries grows, it’s likely that employee activism will focus on seeking increased pay. It is important for businesses to take note of how this might affect headcount in their workplace, as talented workers will begin looking elsewhere for better pay, which could, in turn, damage their reputation. Sustainability And Environmental Impact As public perception of sustainability becomes more prevalent, so does that of workers throughout the UK. Research by KPMG found that 20% of UK office workers would turn down a role if environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors of a business were deemed as ‘lacking’. This shows the shifting importance of prioritising sustainability in business strategies when looking at employee retention and attraction, especially to avoid activism. There are several ways that employers can emphasise their commitment to sustainability and ESG, such as investing in more energy-efficient solutions and developing greener products and services through the materials used for production and packaging. Ben Mercer of Leisure Lakes Bikes , a leading retailer of quality road bikes in the UK, has outlined where offering a cycle-to-work scheme could help promote their sustainability commitments: “Encouraging workforces to embrace different ways of commuting to and from work helps to promote sustainability as a major concern from employers, particularly to move away from relying on motor vehicles." "Not only does cycling offer a carbon-less travel option but promotes travel that can benefit both physical and mental wellbeing, which exercise like cycling is deeply connected with.” Automation, AI, And Job Security Emerging technology, while exciting, offers a daunting look into the future for workers across various industries who may fear that their jobs are at risk of becoming automated. IPPR analysis found that as many as eight million jobs in the UK could become at risk of AI fully displacing the human element of the job. It’s important for businesses to engage with and integrate emerging technologies into strategies to stay competitive within their respective industries. However, it’s crucial to outline to employees that the human element is still essential to processes and operations. Refocusing the perspective from human replacement to working aid is one way to encourage workers to experiment with AI and automation tools to streamline monotonous and repetitive tasks and focus more attention on higher-value ones. Equality, Diversity, And Discrimination (EDI) One subject that shouldn’t fall down the list of priorities for businesses to avoid an increase in employee activism is equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) strategies. Data from Barnett Waddingham found that around 72% of HR directors and C-suite professionals who were surveyed outlined that employee demands for EDI focus were of concern for their business. Businesses that invest in diversity and inclusivity have been found to actually perform better, with a McKinsey report from 2023 finding that companies within the top quartile for ethnic diversity are improved by as much as 27% financially compared to competitors. This is why it’s important to consider candidates from various backgrounds when recruiting. Discrimination doesn’t just extend to gender, race, and ability, as social discrimination is also a factor that must be considered. This extends to mental health and wellbeing not being supported by employers, which could lead to employees seeking a new job elsewhere. Employers expressing their support for individuals with neurodiversity issues and mental health concerns, both in hiring and within their current ranks, could help build more empathy within their company for their day-to-day struggles. By addressing complex topics instead of avoiding them, you can create a culture of communication and better engage your employees. This helps human resources departments explore options and strategies to prioritise happiness within the workplace and build for the future.

Essex firm Sybron, a leading family run UK supplier of cleaning, hygiene and catering products to some of the largest names in hospitality, has been appointed as the preferred distribution partner in the UK for My Drap, as the company seeks to expand its UK business. Owned by Texia, My Drap is a market leader in the design and manufacture of single-use fabric coasters, napkins and placemats, made from premium, natural materials such as 100% cotton, recycled cotton and linen. The range also includes table products suitable for bathrooms in luxury hotels and restaurants. All products can be customised, branded and shipped pre-cut, in rolls, flat or folded to suit customers requirements. A family-owned business based in Barcelona, Texia continuously innovates so that its products are increasingly environmentally responsible. It is a member of the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) which works to improve global cotton production both for the people who produce it and for the environment it grows in, to secure a better future for the sector. Sybron is based at Crammond Park, Harlow. “While My Drap has long maintained a UK presence, we wanted a trusted partner to further amplify and strengthen our brand and business here,” says Texia’s area sales manager, Carla Vila. “Our strategic partnership with Sybron marks a significant milestone in our commitment to delivering unparalleled quality and service to our valued UK customers. We are very confident in their ability to represent our brand.” “As a forward-thinking and dynamic business, we continually seek out new collaborations to enhance our product offering,” says Sybron Sales and Marketing Director, George Mason. “My Drap aligns perfectly with our ethos and their commitment to sustainability resonates deeply with Sybron's values. Their products boast an unmatched level of quality, setting them apart from other disposable alternatives in the market.”

Leading hospitality group Buzzworks has unveiled some of the special preparations its hardworking teams have been taking part in ahead of the 152nd Open, taking place in Troon this month. With an anticipated influx of 300,000 guests, Buzzworks is committed to offering a top-tier experience to visitors from around the globe and locals alike. In the lead up to the event, Buzzworks has also enlisted its teams with a series of training sessions and quizzes over a period of six weeks, designed to equip staff with the skills needed to showcase the best of Scottish hospitality. Buzzworks Learning and Development Manager, Holli Gordon, said: “Our teams have been training hard over the last six weeks to ensure visitors who come to Troon during The Open leave with the best possible experience, and so that we can spotlight Scotland’s best food and drink while staying true to our values." “A large part of this training has been about storytelling, so staff can give visitors local knowledge and local products to talk about. But the sessions have also been designed to be engaging and fun, because we believe that when our staff are enjoying themselves, they’re more motivated and effective in delivering excellent service." “We want to offer everyone the most that we can and showcase the local produce and we’ve trained our teams to deliver that in the best way possible.” Sponsored by Loch Lomond Malts, the whisky training session was a highlight for employees developing their skills ahead of The Open, featuring tasting sessions and a knowledge-building quiz. Gavin Goslan, Buzzworks' Bar Training Manager, said: “We have a lot of visitors from far and wide and we wanted to highlight Scottish products, with whisky obviously being a huge pull for these visitors." “We made sure our knowledge was up to speed with whisky and premium dishes such as lobsters, steaks, and Scottish beers. The excitement is palpable, and our teams love the fact they get to dive into what we have to offer as a country and as a business in the local area during such a prestigious event." “From our world-renowned whiskies to the freshest seafood and finest cuts of meat, we take immense pride in presenting the best of our local culture and flavours to an international audience.” Meanwhile, a cocktail competition sponsored by Ben Lomond Gin added an element of fun and creativity to the training. Robbie Quinn, team leader at Scotts Troon, won first place with his cocktail, The White Horse', which will be featured on the drinks list during The Open. The winning cocktail includes a refreshing blend of Ben Lomond gin, cucumber & mint oleo, fresh lime juice, absinthe, seaweed bitters, saline, and sparkling water. Further training sessions covered various aspects of hospitality, including Customer Experience, Barista Skills, the Art of Hospitality, and How to Wow. Holli also shared insights on the holistic approach taken in their training. She commented: “We’ve put a lot of effort into customer profiling to ensure each visitor has the best host suited to their tastes and preferences. This personalised approach ensures a memorable experience for all our guests.” She added: “Our hope is to really elevate the experience for our customers and to help boost future tourism for the area, and to ensure a lasting legacy for Buzzworks and some of the amazing brands we’ve been working with.” The team behind Buzzworks, which has been named in the Best Companies to Work for List consistently over the past few years, is looking forward to another fantastic season of serving up superb food and drink during The Open. Alongside Lido Troon, the award-winning company offers an aspirational dining and entertainment experience across Scotland through its other stylish brands – Scotts, House, Ourboard, Vic’s & The Vine, The Duke, Thirty Knots, The Bridge Inn, The Fox, and Herringbone.

Business activity grew in nine UK nations and regions in June, after having risen in all 12 in the previous month, the latest NatWest Regional Growth Tracker showed. Key Findings: Nine out of 12 UK nations and regions record growth of business activity in June London tops the growth rankings, ahead of Northern Ireland Yorkshire & Humber underperforms The NatWest Regional Growth Tracker Business Activity Index is the first fact-based indicator of regional economic health published each month, tracking the monthly change in the output of goods and services across the private sector. A reading above 50 signals growth, and the further above the 50 level the faster the expansion signalled. The strongest rise in business activity in June was recorded in London (index at 56.1), which went against the general trend and saw growth accelerate from the month before. The South West (53.9) was the only other area where output rose at a faster rate. There were renewed falls in activity in both Yorkshire & Humber (47.7) and Wales (49.7), while the South East's (49.9) upturn stalled. Sebastian Burnside, NatWest Chief Economist, commented: "Our Regional Growth Tracker shows that most parts of the UK continued to see business activity expand in June, with one or two pockets of real strength. London and Northern Ireland topped the latest rankings, and it's these two that have recorded the strongest average growth so far this year." "At the other end of the scale, the only notable decrease in activity at the end of the second quarter was seen in Yorkshire & Humber, which the Growth Tracker shows has generally underperformed for the best part of a year." "Demand conditions varied across the UK in June. The number of nations and regions reporting growth in new business fell, although this masked some stronger performances, especially in Northern Ireland and London, but also in the North West and South West." "Business expectations took a bit of a hit almost universally in June, reflecting uncertainty ahead of the general election. Encouragingly, however, most areas saw employment rise as businesses continue to forecast growth in activity over the coming year." "Although neighbouring each other, the South East and South West are seeing contrasting trends in employment. The divergence, which began at the start of the year, has grown in recent months, with the South East seeing its strongest job creation in over a year." "An acceleration in output charge inflation across most parts of the UK in June shows continued stickiness in prices, which might give policymakers some pause for thought on interest rate cuts."

Independent family brewer and pub company Shepherd Neame has signed a new multi-year pouring rights partnership deal with EFL League Two club Gillingham FC. The Faversham-based brewer, which has 300 pubs and hotels across Kent, London and the South East, has been chosen as the official provider of beer, cider, wines, spirits and soft drinks at Gillingham's Priestfield Stadium. The partnership will begin on Saturday (July 13) when ‘The Gills’ take on Millwall FC in a pre-season friendly, with the following Shepherd Neame brands available on draught for supporters to enjoy around the stadium: Spitfire Lager, Whitstable Bay Pale Ale, Whitstable Bay Black Stout, Bear Island East Coast Pale Ale, Hurlimann, Singha, Noughty Bear 0.5% IPA and Orchard View cider. Shepherd Neame Chief Executive Jonathan Neame said: “We take pride on being at the heart of our communities, so we are delighted to announce our new partnership with Gillingham Football Club. The Gills are a great Kent club with a rich heritage, and we look forward to working with them and celebrating their achievements during the coming years.” Gillingham FC's Owner and Chairman Brad Galinson said: “This is a special one for us. The oldest brewer in Britain partnering with The Gills, just up the road! We are a match made for each other. Cheers!”

Check out the short film that showcases the Family Business of the Year Awards 2024, the thoughts of Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United who organise these awards and some insights from people present on the evening. You can see a full list of all the winners of the 2024 Family Business of the Year Awards here

Farmers across the UK are showing their entrepreneurial spirit, as they diversify traditional arable, dairy or livestock farming to use their land in a whole manner of new ways in order to increase or supplement their income, according to new research from wealth manager Investec Wealth & Investment (UK), with 100 freehold farmers across the UK. Key Findings: All of the farmers surveyed said they are trying farming alternatives in order to increase or diversify their income Eight in 10 (80%) farmers say that current market dynamics have pressurised them into considering these Over half (54%) of farmers say their farm’s income has increased over the past two years because of this, according to new study by Investec Wealth & Investment (UK) All farmers surveyed said they were currently using at least some of their land in non-traditional ways. The most popular initiative is increasing biodiversity through increased tree planting or carbon capture (66% of farmers surveyed said they are doing this) followed by starting to make new products to sell, such as cheese (43%) and trying out Community Supported Agriculture, where customers subscribe to receive regular deliveries of fresh produce or other farm products (38%). Other new revenue streams include starting to attend farmers’ markets (35%), offering a tourist attraction such as holiday cottages or glamping facilities (25%) or starting to farm new livestock (24%). Top 10 new enterprises started by farmers surveyed: Using land for biodiversity activities such as carbon capture/tree planting (66%) Started to make new products to sell e.g. cheese (43%) Community Supported Agriculture where customers subscribe for regular produce (38%) Started to attend farmers’ markets (35%) Tourism e.g. holiday cottage or glamping (25%) Starting farming new livestock (24%) Starting farming new crops (19%) Started contract farming e.g. collaborating with local businesses to supply produce (18%) Using land for renewable energy e.g. solar panels (17%) Launched a ‘pick your own’ (16%) The research by Investec Wealth & Investment (UK) reveals that eight in 10 (80%) farmers surveyed say that current market dynamics have pressurised them into considering these alternatives farming activities. It appears their entrepreneurial spirit is proving lucrative, with green initiatives in particular not only being environmentally friendly but financially sound too. Of the farmers surveyed who say they’ve started using their land for increased biodiversity through tree planting or carbon capture (66%) around seven in 10 (68%) of these say it makes up between 15% and 20% of their farm’s annual income. More than one in 10 (12%) say it makes up between 10% and 15% of their farm’s annual income and one in twenty (20%) say the figure is up to 10%. Similarly, of the farmers surveyed who say they’ve started using their land for renewable energy, such as solar panels (17%), more than one in 10 (12%) say it contributes to between 15% and 20% of their farm’s annual income and 77% say it contributes between 10% and 15%. Over one in 10 (12%) say the figure is between 5% and 10%. Those farmers running tourist activities such as a holiday cottage or glamping (25%), and making new products to sell, such as cheese (43%), reported a broader range of incomes from these activities. Of those running tourist activities, 16% said this generated over 20% of their farm’s annual income and 24% said this was only up to 5%. Of those making new products, 26% said this generated between 15% and 20% of their farm’s annual income while 30% said this generated between 5% and 10%. The majority of farmers surveyed have been running these new enterprises for at least two years or more, and say they’ve experienced an improvement in their farm’s income during this time. Over a quarter (28%) say their farm’s income has increased slightly over the past two years, and a further quarter (26%) say it’s increased dramatically. More than a third (36%) say their income has stayed the same over the past two years. Only 8% say it’s fallen slightly, and 2% say it’s fallen dramatically. Scott Jones, Divisional Director - Southern Offices at Investec Wealth & Investment (UK), said: “Our survey shows that some farmers are having to diversify away – at least in part – from traditional arable, dairy and livestock farming. Many feel that they are being led to these new enterprises because of the current market dynamics, but that they are also proving to be economically attractive." "There doesn’t appear to be a one-size-fits-all approach to diversification with farmers showing their entrepreneurial spirit to try out a whole host of new ways to use their land, from carbon capture, to glamping, making new products or even contract farming with local supply chains." “Whichever route farmers and landowners decide to take, we can help to navigate this journey whilst protecting and building assets and wealth along the way, for today and for future generations to come.” James Gower, Managing Director of The Game Fair, commented: “The findings from the research highlight key factors affecting the farming community which is an important part of the future of our countryside. Our partnership with Investec Wealth & Investment (UK) is at the heart of our drive to create the perfect opportunity at The Game Fair for farmers to come together to share values, discuss the latest topics and find solutions to the challenges they face.”

Owner-managed businesses are facing significant challenges due to cost pressures that are impacting both profitability and sustainability. A recent survey by Bishop Fleming highlighted escalating costs across various aspects, including materials, energy and interest rates. So, how can owner-managed businesses deal with cost pressures in an ever-evolving landscape and what can be done to mitigate the key challenges? The Key Challenges Owner-managed businesses are experiencing rising costs across the board, including in several operational areas, from raw materials to energy expenses. Contributing factors include fluctuations in commodity prices, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions. These rising costs erode profit margins and strain financial resources, necessitating proactive measures to control expenses and maintain competitiveness. We’re also seeing a continuous rise in raw material and utility prices which is putting considerable pressure on profit margins, particularly for businesses heavily reliant on these factors. Whether it's materials for manufacturing, or energy bills for food and drink establishments, the increasing costs are squeezing bottom lines. In industries where raw materials constitute a significant portion of production costs, even minor price fluctuations can significantly impact profitability, making cost management a top priority. But certainly one of the most daunting challenges for owner-managed businesses is passing cost increases on to customers, which is only becoming more difficult. Today's competitive marketplace features price-sensitive consumers, making it difficult to raise prices without risking customer loyalty or market share. Additionally, price-comparison platforms and discount retailers further complicates pricing strategies, leaving businesses balancing profitability and competitiveness. Mitigation Strategies Despite these challenges, owner-managed businesses can employ several strategies to navigate cost pressures and ensure financial stability. The first step for businesses is to optimise their costs by conducting a comprehensive review of expenses across all business areas to identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements. Measures can include renegotiating supplier contracts, optimising stock management, and investing in energy-efficient technologies to reduce operational costs. Owner-managed businesses should also explore opportunities to redesign products or processes for cost savings without compromising quality or performance. This might include engaging with suppliers and stakeholders to brainstorm innovative solutions that streamline production processes and minimise waste. Another strategy is to adopt a nuanced approach to pricing that balances the need to cover costs with market dynamics and consumer preferences. Businesses can utilise pricing analytics and customer segmentation strategies to tailor pricing approaches to different market segments and maximize revenue opportunities. By diversifying revenue streams and entering new markets, businesses can mitigate cost pressures in existing business lines, embracing innovation and product differentiation to create value propositions that resonate with customers and justify premium pricing. And finally, owner managed businesses should develop robust financial forecasting models and scenario analyses to anticipate and mitigate the impact of cost fluctuations on cash flow and profitability. Businesses can establish contingency plans and risk mitigation strategies to buffer against unforeseen shocks and disruptions. Conclusion Rising costs pose significant challenges for owner-managed businesses, threatening profitability and competitiveness. And yet, by adopting a proactive approach to cost management, implementing strategic pricing strategies and embracing innovation, businesses can navigate these challenges and emerge stronger and more resilient in the face of economic uncertainty.

The ongoing success of a hotel's new art gallery installation has resulted in an expansion into the world of stoneware ceramics and sculpture. English Lakes Hotels has commissioned British ceramics expert Jonquil Cook to feature her works in the ‘Art in the Atrium’ gallery at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa. The luxury spa venue has established a new display area for sculpture and ceramics to add to its ongoing art exhibits. Jonquil’s stoneware ceramics artwork has been featured across the globe, including recent large scale tile mural installations in North America, France and now London, where she produces highly decorative pieces from the TAM studios in Woolwich Dockyard. Working with high fired stoneware clay and using custom made slips and glazes, Jonquil produces a range of items including vases, platters, tile panels and interior murals, always with the dual aims of functionality and beauty. Jonquil’s surface decoration is hand-carved, freehand, with detailed ‘sgraffito’, a technique adapted from relief printmaking where a layer of glaze or slip is put on a piece of pottery, dried and then expertly etched and abraded to reveal base layers of colour. Executive chairman of English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues Simon Berry says: “Jonquil’s signature style and method has been developed over two decades of international experiences." “Recurrent themes appearing on the relief surface of her work, such as swimming Koi carp and natural forms of wild flowers and grasses, have come about from years of observation of the natural environment." “Jonquil’s work is a welcome addition to Low Wood Bay’s Art in the Atrium exhibition and we hope our hotel guests will be thoroughly absorbed by her ornate and intricate pieces.” Jonquil has strong connections with Cumbria and has been a regular exhibitor at the Potfest in the Pens event in Penrith. “The Lake District landscape has been a huge influence on my artistic development since childhood, and has nurtured my passion for hiking and climbing,” she says. “And the opportunity to exhibit at Low Wood Bay is poignant as my mum was one of the first chamber maids at the hotel in the 1950s when there was just a skeleton staff of eight.” All of Jonquil’s ceramics are entirely handmade and unique, with no moulds or templates used. They are fired twice in the kiln, first to just under 1,000 degrees centigrade, and then, once glazed, to 1,260 degrees. This second firing makes her products extremely strong and non-porous.