Arkell’s Brewery, one of only twenty-eight independent family brewers left in the UK, is celebrating the hard work and dedication of their brew team after scooping a trio of awards in recent competitions. Haze Pale Ale and Malthouse Craft Lager were awarded Gold and Bronze, respectively, at the SIBA South West Independent Beer Awards, and Kingsdown Ale bottled beer received Gold in the South West Taste of the West Awards. Haze is the brewery’s first vegan & gluten-free beer, described as a 4% ABV pale ale with a tropical fruit nose and a tropical fruit and mango flavour. Receiving Gold in the Keg Session Pale Ale category at the SIBA (Society of Independent Brewers and Associates) South West Independent Beer Awards, Alex Arkell, Head Brewer commented “It couldn’t be better feedback on our brand-new beer, straight in with a Gold for its first ever award.” Alex continued “We are equally delighted that our Malthouse Craft Lager has been recognised with Bronze in the Keg Session Lager category. It’s a fantastic award for our newly rebranded Malthouse, and reconfirms that the lager is as good as we think it is!” "Malthouse is noted for being a 4.2% ABV, handmade, refreshing, characterful English lager, brewed using local barley. Alex explained, “Unlike many lagers, we like to slow ferment Malthouse for up to a month, creating a softer, cleaner flavour with a satisfying fullness in the mouth. After this, rather than pasteurising and cooking the aromas, we gently triple micro filter the beer to lock in the thirst-quenching flavour.” The SIBA South West Independent Beer Awards, which took place at MaltingsFest in Newton Abbot, highlight the very best beers from a huge range of styles, strengths, and flavours, including traditional bitters, stouts, modern hazy IPAs, and Pale Ales. Judged by beer experts, experienced beer judges, and fellow brewers from other regions, they are seen as the ‘brewers’ choice awards’ in the UK. Arkell’s also received an award from The Taste of the West Awards programme, which has been promoting and supporting the South West food and drink industry for over 30 years. They are regarded as a benchmark for excellence across the whole South West region. Kingsdown Ale, one of the brewery’s long-standing brews, was successful in the Taste of The West product Awards 2024, achieving Gold for the bottled beer. The 4.8% ABV dark ale is a luscious, deep, fruit forward strong bitter with a superb chestnut colour, and smooth aftertaste. Already an award-winning beer, Alex Arkell remarked “It’s fantastic to see the hard work of the brew team recognized again. With a combined length of service in the team of over one hundred years, they always aim to craft exceptional beers that reflect our heritage and unwavering commitment to quality, while exploring innovative ways to keep up with changing trends." "This trio of awards celebrates the culmination of the hard work, passion, and dedication of Arkell’s brew team. Cheers to them.” For more information on Arkell’s hand crafted range of beers, visit their website here

New research from cricket apparel range, Maiden has found that playing competitive sports when young has helped British workers later in life as they face the challenges of the modern-day workplace. When asked if it has made them a better team player, 69% of people thought so – that was 69% of men and 56% of women. Two thirds (63%) of people believe that sports have helped them in the workplace, teaching them key skills of teamwork (64%), competitiveness (49%), respect (37%) and resilience (37%). 39% of British people also believe that playing sports when young instil good health and fitness habits later on in life. Despite these positive stats and 70% of girls saying they enjoy playing sport, a third (36%)1 are put off at school because of the limited ill-fitting sportswear available to them. A quarter (25%) of girls today say this sportswear makes them feel self-conscious, while nearly half of women (44%) say they wouldn’t wear kit if it was uncomfortable, not fit for purpose for their time of the month (35%) or if sweat marks show easily (27%). The fact that so little attention has historically been given to girls’ sports clothing could be affecting the talent pipeline of women in the workplace. With girls dropping out of sports at an early age, they lose all the benefits that sports teach that can then be transferred to the workplace, encouraging more women at senior positions. Suzy Levy, Author of Mind the Inclusion Gap and Managing Director at The Red Plate says: “The benefits of keeping young girls in sport last well beyond the team or the trophy. Sport develops skills which last a lifetime. Having brands like Maiden, who recognise the positive impact that sports kit purposefully designed for and by women and girls, is important for inclusion.” In the girls’ cricket world, Honor (16) and Cat (15) Black are tackling the issue. They are fed up with having to wear uncomfortable and ill-fitting cricket clothes made solely for boys when playing their game for the last eight years so came up with Maiden Cricket Clothing which launched in March 2024. Their range aims to empower, inspire and redefine the game for young female cricketers aged eight to 18. The designs are meticulously crafted to girls’ unique needs – both in terms of function and fashion, encouraging them to feel, look and play their best.   Maiden Founder, Honor Black (16) says: “Playing Cricket was all I wanted to do at school, it’s a brilliant strategic game and team sport. It’s so motivating to hear that playing competitive sports puts you in good stead for the future." "However, why do girls have to wear ill-fitting kit, feel self-conscious and distracted when really the focus should be on the game and team performance? We created Maiden to show girls that it doesn’t need to be this way; you can look good and play your best in kit that is tailored for girls. We want to encourage more young people into the sport to experience the huge benefits that it brings – creating camaraderie, teaching you resilience, and improving your mental health which is so important for young people today."   “We want to also champion girls’ cricket from when someone discovers the game at school or through their community. If we can build a bigger and stronger community, this will empower current players and others for the future. We have had an overwhelming response since we launched six weeks ago, with over 150 applications for The Maiden Rising Stars Programme, telling us their stories and why they want to be part of the Maiden Mission. Our mission is to make sure girls are seen equal to boys in schools when it comes to PE and Sports – which will then filter through to the workplace. We need to all work together to encourage the next generation of sporting heroes.”  About Maiden Maiden launched in March 2024 and has so far received rave reviews with many saying that a change in girls’ cricket ware hasn’t come soon enough. They have created a Rising Stars partnerships programme, celebrating up and coming cricketing talent in the UK and have received hundreds of applications – showing a real love of the sport.

Latest Regional PMI® survey data from NatWest showed a broad-based increase in business activity across the UK in May, with growth being recorded simultaneously in all 12 nations and regions monitored for the first time in more than a year. At the same, there was a universal easing of cost inflation, which had spiked in April following the changes to the National Minimum Wage. Business expectations were generally positive, but trends in employment remained more mixed. Key Findings: Broad-based growth recorded for first time since April 2023 Employment increases in just over half of areas Cost inflation eases universally after April's National Minimum Wage rise The PMI 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. Growth of business activity in May was strongest in Northern Ireland, where output expanded at a sharp and accelerated rate (index at 56.4), followed by Scotland (55.2). At the other end of the scale, Yorkshire & Humber (50.5) saw activity increase for the first time since January, albeit marginally. Demand Demand conditions improved almost across the board in May. Northern Ireland recorded the most marked increase in new business by far, registering its strongest growth since February 2022. A renewed – albeit marginal – expansion in Yorkshire & Humber meant that the East of England was the only area to see a further decline in new work. Capacity Labour market performances continued to vary across the UK, with just over half of the monitored nations and regions recording a rise in employment. Job creation was led by Northern Ireland for the third month in a row, with the North West and Scotland close behind. The South West meanwhile posted the steepest fall in workforce numbers – its largest for over three years. Only two areas recorded a rise in backlogs of work in May, signalling a general lack of pressure on business capacity. Furthermore, the increases seen in London and Scotland were only marginal. The steepest drop in outstanding businesses was recorded in Wales, where the rate of depletion was the quickest since February. Prices Business costs rose more slowly in every nation and region in May, following a spike in inputs prices in April linked to the change in the National Minimum Wage. Firms in Northern Ireland recorded the largest overall rise in operating expenses, while those in the West Midlands recorded the smallest (albeit one that was still notable). There was a tendency for average prices charged for goods and services to rise at a slower rate in May. The South East recorded the strongest output price inflation, but it was one of just three areas where the rate ticked up from the month before. The other two were Northern Ireland and the North West, although the latter nevertheless posted the slowest rise. Outlook The West Midlands recorded the highest overall degree of optimism towards future activity for the ninth time in the past 11 months. It was one of seven areas where sentiment strengthened since April. Despite also seeing confidence improve from the month before, Scotland registered at the bottom of the rankings for the second month running. Sebastian Burnside, NatWest Chief Economist, commented: "Although growth slowed at the UK level in May, this masked a more balanced performance geographically as business activity rose in all nations and regions for the first time in over a year." "The month's standout performers were Northern Ireland and Scotland, where rates of expansion went against the trend and accelerated. London has been leading the recovery up to now, but growth in the capital lost some momentum in May and was more aligned with the overall UK rate." "Cost inflation receded across the UK in May, after the changes to the national minimum wage had caused it to spike in April. Nevertheless, with these higher wages already baked in and cost of living pressures continuing to drive up salary demands more generally, we're seeing some reticence among businesses when it comes to hiring." "The lack of employment growth in some areas doesn't appear to be a confidence issue, with May's survey highlighting optimism towards growth prospects across all of the UK's nations and regions. Business activity is generally expected to rise over the next 12 months, helped not least by a potential tailwind from lower interest rates."

St Austell Brewery, the South West’s leading independent brewer and pub company, has reported ‘strong’ financial growth in the 52-week period to 31st December 2023. Despite challenging trading conditions for the hospitality industry, the company grew its underlying operating profit by 15% (£13.2m) and achieved another year of record turnover (£229.5m). Will Michelmore, Non-Executive Chairman, St Austell Brewery, said: “I am pleased to report that St Austell Brewery has once again achieved record turnover, but importantly, this increase in sales has also been converted into improved operating profit." “We are very proud of these results given the challenges that the company and wider sector continues to face. Costs have increased significantly during this financial year - particularly on food and labour - while the cost-of-living crisis has continued to reduce levels of disposable income and change consumer behaviours." “Despite the challenging trading environment, demand for our beers and the offer in our pubs has remained strong. We continue to be optimistic about our long-term prospects and remain confident that we have the leadership and focused strategy that will ensure the company’s continued growth and future success.” Kevin Georgel, Chief Executive, St Austell Brewery, said: “2023 was a year in which we made significant progress against our ambition to release the full potential of the business." "We have continued to invest in our people and our high-quality pub estate, whilst future-proofing our beer brands and drinks portfolio. As a result of this continued investment, and the contribution of our dedicated and talented teams, I am confident that we are delivering great experiences for our customers all year round, and this is generating strong profit growth." “Throughout the year, inflation reduced from the peak of 2022, however cost challenges in our sector continued. Considering these sustained headwinds, we are pleased to report a 15% increase in profitability, in addition to delivering record revenues for a second consecutive year." “These results are testament to our all of our teams as well as our tenanted business partners. I would like to take this opportunity to thank them all for their continued hard work and support." “With the cost of living continuing to impact people across the country, we remain committed to delivering excellent value. We are, first and foremost, an experiential business and it is our ambition to exceed the expectations of every guest, whether they’re visiting one of our pubs or drinking one of our beers." “Our financial performance compares strongly with the market, and we remain a profitable, strongly cash-generative business with a clear strategic direction. We are focused on continued growth, harnessing the momentum we’ve built and diversifying our offer - where appropriate - to ensure that the business evolves positively and remains fit for the future.”

Hull and East Yorkshire focused Community Interest Company, For Entrepreneurs Only (FEO) has today announced a new key partnership with longstanding local family business, John Good Group, as well as an office base at John Good’s new headquarters, Quarry House, located in the Hesslewood Office Park, Hessle. Adam Walsh, John Good Group’s CEO is already a member of FEO and is looking forward to strengthening the relationship, as he explains, “I’m a huge fan of the FEO and the work they do for the business community in our region. You cannot fail to be impressed by the range of peer-led programmes and initiatives created to help and support those running or starting a business in Hull & East Yorkshire.” FEO is made up of like-minded entrepreneurs representing successful businesses of all sizes and sectors. Its members employ over 25,000 people and contribute over £4.5bn to the local economy each year. The group is passionate about improving the local economy and run a wide range of peer-led programmes and events throughout the year. In 2021 FEO was awarded The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in recognition of the time and commitment given by members and key partners. Jan Brumby, FEO’s Chief Executive, looks forward to working with Adam and the John Good Group, commenting, “I’m proud to welcome the John Good Group as an FEO key partner. As a sixth-generation family business, their range of companies continues to focus on people, planet and performance. Adam and his team actively support FEO’s mission, vision and values, giving something back to the local economy in which they are based." "Their support, along with that of our other valued key partners helps us to continue the great work our members do in helping entrepreneurs to start, develop and grow their businesses. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them all for their continuing active support and involvement.” Adam adds, “There’s so much alignment between FEO, its members and partners, and the John Good Group – all are ambitious and growth-minded organisations who strive to thrive." "Being able to support the FEO with a home at our offices and opening our facilities to FEO members is something I’m really excited about and another important milestone for our organisation." "Having operated over three different centuries alongside the Humber, we’ve a real sense of place and are always keen to support the local economy and the businesses that operate here.” The John Good Group has interests in Shipping, Corporate Travel, Warehousing & Haulage, Property, and is a keen supporter of social impact causes, through its foundation, the Matthew Good Foundation. It joins FEO’s 8 local key partners: Connexin, Cranswick plc, Gosschalks, Horncastle Group, MKM Building Supplies, Neill & Brown, Smailes Goldie and The One Point.

In recent years, the concept of family offices has seen exponential growth, offering a unique approach to managing the affairs of wealthy families, especially those with entrepreneurial endeavours. These private wealth management entities have evolved to become key players in supporting entrepreneurial families in navigating the complexities of wealth preservation, strategic investments, and legacy planning. Understanding The Purpose Of Family Offices Family offices serve as bespoke financial management entities dedicated to overseeing the comprehensive affairs of high-net-worth families. From financial planning and investment management to estate planning and philanthropic initiatives, family offices provide a holistic approach tailored to the specific needs and goals of each family. By centralising financial services and decision-making processes, family offices aim to streamline operations and maximise long-term financial success. Empowering Entrepreneurial Families For entrepreneurial families, the dynamic nature of their business ventures requires a specialised approach to wealth management. Family offices play a crucial role in providing personalised financial solutions that align with the unique challenges and opportunities faced by entrepreneurial families. By offering strategic guidance on business investments, risk management, and succession planning, family offices enable entrepreneurial families to protect and grow their wealth across generations. The Integration Of Business And Personal Affairs One of the key advantages of family offices for entrepreneurial families is the seamless integration of business and personal financial matters. By coordinating business interests with personal wealth management strategies, family offices ensure alignment between the family's entrepreneurial vision and their overall financial objectives. This integrated approach fosters synergy and continuity, allowing entrepreneurial families to achieve both business success and personal wealth preservation. Tailored Services For Long-Term Success Family offices go beyond standard wealth management services by providing customised solutions that address the evolving needs of entrepreneurial families. Whether it involves optimising tax efficiency, diversifying investment portfolios, or adapting to changing market conditions, family offices offer proactive financial planning strategies that promote long-term success and sustainability for entrepreneurial families and their enterprises. Their role continues to evolve but for many the family office affords the opportunity to manage family interests more broadly in terms of travel, reputational ma Nurturing A Legacy Of Success Entrepreneurial families often strive to create a lasting legacy that transcends financial prosperity. Family offices play a pivotal role in nurturing this legacy by facilitating intergenerational wealth transfer and fostering a culture of shared values and vision within the family. Through strategic planning and governance structures, family offices help entrepreneurial families preserve their heritage while empowering future generations to carry forward their entrepreneurial spirit. As the landscape of wealth management continues to evolve, family offices have emerged as indispensable partners for entrepreneurial families seeking comprehensive financial solutions tailored to their unique circumstances. By combining financial expertise with personalised services, family offices empower entrepreneurial families to navigate the complexities of wealth management with confidence and clarity. With their focus on long-term success and legacy preservation, family offices serve as valuable allies in supporting the entrepreneurial endeavours of affluent families across generations. In a rapidly changing economic landscape, the role of family offices in supporting entrepreneurial families cannot be understated. By providing personalised financial services, strategic guidance, and a holistic approach to wealth management, family offices empower entrepreneurial families to achieve sustainable success and build a lasting legacy.

Work began on a new $500 million JCB factory in North America – the biggest-ever investment in the company’s history. The start of construction was signalled at an official ground-breaking ceremony at the site in San Antonio, Texas, where Alice Bamford, daughter of company Chairman Anthony Bamford, cut the first sod of earth. Work on the 720,000 sq. ft (67,000m²) factory is under way on a 400-acre site and will create 1,500 new jobs over five years. It will be the company’s second largest plant, rivalled only by the manufacturer’s World HQ in Rocester, Staffordshire, UK. The factory will make Loadall telescopic handlers and aerial access equipment, with production scheduled to start in 2026. The factory will also have the capacity to expand into the manufacture of other products in the future. Chairman Lord Bamford said: “Construction equipment manufacturers sell more than 300,000 machines every year in North America, making it the single largest market in the world." "JCB has been growing its share of this important market steadily over the past few years and the time is now right to invest in our manufacturing capacity in North America, where we already have one factory. JCB really has come a considerable way since we sold our first machine here 60 years ago and it gives me immense pleasure to see how our business has grown in North America. Today really is a milestone day in the history of our family company.” Texas Governor Greg Abbott said: “Texas was this year named as The Best State for Business for a record-breaking 20th year, and I am proud to welcome JCB as the newest business to call our great state home." "Today's groundbreaking marks a major milestone in JCB's journey that will create 1,500 good-paying jobs for hardworking Texans in Bexar County and bring hundreds of millions of new capital investment to San Antonio and beyond. ‘Made in Texas’ is truly a powerful global brand, and I look forward to celebrating JCB’s continuing success as we work together to build a bigger, better Texas for decades to come." JCB CEO Graeme Macdonald said: “JCB’s business in North America has made tremendous progress in the past few years and the opportunity for growth here is vast. This record investment gives us a fantastic opportunity to build on our success and we look forward to the completion of this great new facility.” Richard Fox-Marrs, President & CEO of JCB North America, said: “The Loadall telescopic handler is JCB’s biggest selling product in North America and it is also the single largest market for aerial access equipment worldwide, and therefore, it makes great sense to build these two ranges here." "Texas is an obvious choice for our new North American manufacturing facility, not least because the State is the largest consumer of construction equipment in the USA. San Antonio is also the logical choice as a location for our new factory because of its central location, proximity to the supply chain and great local labour force. We are really excited about JCB’s new San Antonio factory and for the future of our business in North America.” JCB sold its first machine in North America in 1964 and opened its first manufacturing plant there in 2001 in Savannah, Georgia, which employs 1,000 people. The new facility will manufacture machines for customers specifically in North America. JCB employs 19,000 people and has 22 factories around the world, including 11 in the UK, seven in India, and others in Brazil and China. The company will mark its 80th anniversary in 2025.

The Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust is proud to announce the successful funding of two exceptional care initiatives, Musical Memories Springburn and Charlie's Old Codgers Foundation. Both organizations have been awarded funds to continue their invaluable work in supporting sick and vulnerable people in north Glasgow and across Scotland. Musical Memories Springburn has been awarded £2,000 to enhance their support for people with dementia. Known for their engaging live performance sessions with music from bygone years to memories and bring joy, Musical Memories Springburn has struggled with providing reliable transport for their attendees. The new funding will ensure that participants can travel safely back to their residences after sessions, reducing stress and anxiety for both them and their carers. Brian Smith from Musical Memories Springburn expressed his gratitude, saying, "Our sessions finish just as schools are coming out, so taxis are in their busiest hours. It has been so sad to see our friends going from being elated to sad after waiting for a long time for a taxi home." "This grant from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust will allow us to provide dedicated transport to get frail and elderly folks with dementia, and their carers, safely back to their care homes still feeling happy after our Musical Memories session." Charlie's Old Codgers Foundation has been awarded £2,500 to support their mission of alleviating loneliness and isolation among care home, hospice, and rural cottage hospital residents. The foundation's unique approach includes reuniting residents with their beloved pets and providing engaging activities. However, rising fuel costs have made it challenging to maintain their extensive travel schedule to visit with 329 residents per week across 23 care homes, seven hospices and two cottage hospitals throughout Scotland. Jean from Charlie's Old Codgers Foundation highlighted the impact of the funding: "The difference this funding will make is unimaginable. It will have such a positive effect on everyone here at Charlie's and on the residents we visit every week. We want to say a huge thanks to Allied Vehicles and give them all a round of a-paws-e from the whole team at Charlie's Old Codgers Foundation." These funds from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust will significantly enhance the quality of life for hundreds of individuals through ensuring that the work of Musical Memories Springburn and Charlie's Old Codgers Foundation can continue. David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles Group, acknowledged the importance of these donations: "I'm delighted that the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust is able to support both Musical Memories Springburn and Charlie's Old Codgers Foundation." "As both a musician and pet owner myself, the work of both charities is something close to my heart. Their dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable, sick and elderly individuals in our community is truly inspiring. We hope that these funds will make a meaningful difference, allowing both organizations to continue their excellent work and bring joy and comfort to many more people."

Perdue Farms, through its Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation, has awarded a $20,000 grant to Blue Ridge Area Food Bank to help fund its Good Food School Markets. The donation from Perdue’s charitable giving arm is part of the company’s Delivering Hope to Our Neighbors® outreach to improve quality of life and build strong communities. The Good Food School Markets at Harrisonburg High School in Harrisonburg, Virginia, and Broadway High School in Broadway, Virginia, are part of a privately funded child nutrition program that brings fresh produce and shelf-stable foods into high schools for distribution to students and families in need and seeks to reduce the stigma of visiting a food pantry. Michael McKee, CEO of Blue Ridge Area Food Bank said: “Good nutrition is so important to ensure healthy development of young bodies and minds. One out of every 11 children in the Blue Ridge area lives without a reliable source of healthy food." "These are students who should be busy learning and having fun without worrying about the daily challenges of hunger. Thanks to Perdue, we can ensure that local students and their families have access to nourishing food.” Demand for the Good Food School Markets has grown significantly because of increased need and higher food costs. These school pantries offer nutritious food for students living with hunger, improving their health and ability to succeed in school. “Perdue Farms and the Perdue Foundation have been steadfast supporters and partners of the Food Bank for many years,” said McKee. “We benefit from their gifts of nourishing proteins, volunteer hours and financial gifts to support food distributions.” As Kim Nechay, executive director of the Perdue Foundation, explained: “It’s extremely important for children to receive proper nutrition and we know school pantries provide much-needed support to families and their children. At Perdue, we’re honored to provide this grant to the food bank to ensure healthy foods are easily and readily available.”

Family businesses have long been considered the backbone of economies worldwide, with their rich histories and deep-rooted values shaping their operations. As stewards and custodians of their family legacies, these businesses face unique challenges, particularly when it comes to ensuring long-term sustainability and successful succession planning. Sustainable practices can have a significant impact on the journey of family businesses and help them pave the way for a prosperous future. The Legacy Of Family Businesses Family businesses are more than just commercial entities; they are symbols of tradition, heritage, and continuity. Passed down through generations, these businesses carry with them a sense of pride and responsibility to uphold the values instilled by their founders. As the custodians of their family legacies, it is essential for family businesses to implement sustainable practices that not only preserve their heritage but also ensure their longevity in an ever-changing business landscape. Embracing Sustainability For Long-Term Success One of the key factors that distinguish family businesses from their counterparts is their long-term perspective. Unlike publicly traded companies focused on short-term gains and financial returns, family businesses often prioritise sustainability over immediate profits. By adopting environmentally friendly practices, promoting social responsibility, and investing in their communities, family businesses can build a reputation as ethical leaders in their industries. These sustainable practices not only benefit the environment and society but also contribute to the long-term success and resilience of the business itself. Nurturing Succession Planning Succession planning is a critical aspect of ensuring the continuity of a family business from one generation to the next. By integrating sustainable practices into their operations, family businesses can lay a solid foundation for a smooth transition of leadership. This involves not only identifying and developing future leaders within the family but also preparing them to embrace the values of sustainability and responsible stewardship. By instilling a culture of sustainability in every aspect of the business, family enterprises can empower the next generation to carry forward the legacy of their ancestors with pride and purpose. Balancing Tradition And Innovation While tradition forms the core of family businesses, innovation is key to staying relevant in a rapidly evolving business environment. Sustainable practices provide family businesses with the opportunity to blend tradition with modernity, creating a unique value proposition that resonates with consumers and stakeholders alike. By embracing innovation in their sustainability efforts – whether through adopting green technologies, implementing efficient resource management strategies, or diversifying their product offerings – family businesses can secure their position as pioneers in their industries while upholding their time-honored values. Family businesses play a vital role in the economic landscape, embodying a legacy of resilience, integrity, and community spirit. By embracing sustainable practices, these businesses can not only safeguard their heritage and principles but also set a precedent for responsible business conduct that benefits both present and future generations. "As stewards of their family legacies, family businesses have the opportunity to lead by example, demonstrating that long-term success is achievable through a commitment to sustainability and a dedication to preserving the values that define them." In a world where change is constant and challenges are inevitable, family businesses that prioritise sustainability can emerge as true champions of enduring success and prosperity. Let us celebrate the custodians of tradition and innovation, the stewards of long-term sustainability – our beloved family businesses. Sustainable practices are more than just buzzwords for family businesses; they are the guiding principles that shape their legacy and ensure their long-term success." "By embracing sustainability, family enterprises can uphold their values, nurture future leaders, and pave the way for a prosperous future built on tradition, innovation, and integrity.

Tickets are now available for this year’s Hendy Motor Fest with fun for all the family at Thruxton Motor Circuit on Sunday July 28th – and entry is free for everyone. Hendy Motor Fest is the new name for Hendy Performance Day. After three incredibly successful years it’s evolving into a family-friendly event with entertainment for all ages. Last year’s event attracted more than 8,000 people and organisers are planning even more attractions to ensure Hendy Motor Fest is bigger and better than ever before. There will still be lots of cars, plenty of performance vehicles, entertainment on the track from precision driver Paul Swift and a dedicated EV zone with Hendy partner Myenergi – but this year there will be more activities for kids, more live music, more food outlets, and heritage vehicles from Hendy Group. The Kids Zone will have an inflatable village and a face painter and this year there will also be an arts and crafts area. Vehicle displays will include not only performance cars but a variety of new cars and vans together with a trip down memory lane as Hendy Group, which is celebrating 165 years in business in 2024, showcases some highlights from its rich history. Club stands will be displaying their prized cars with this area offering visitors the opportunity to connect with fellow car lovers. There will also be trade stands with a variety of suppliers showcasing everything from accessories to motoring upgrades. Hendy Group chief executive Paul Hendy said: “This year the focus is on providing a free packed day out for all the family. There will still be plenty to entertain the car enthusiasts with stands from all the manufacturers we represent together with car club displays and we’re pleased to welcome back Paul Swift and his amazing stunt driving shows. “But this year we hope the expansion of activities for all ages and our live music line-up will really put this event on the calendar for all families looking for a free day out in the summer holidays.” New for 2024 is the dedicated EV zone in partnership with Myenergi which will offer everyone the opportunity to learn more about the future of motoring from Hendy and Myenergi who will be on hand to answer all your questions and show you some of the latest models available. Tickets are now available for car enthusiasts and families and can be ordered online here and are free for everyone.

TL Dallas, one of the UK’s leading independent insurance broking and risk management companies, announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire Marsh Commercial’s business in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. Terms of the transaction, which is expected to close in August 2024, were not disclosed. TL Dallas is a fourth-generation family firm, owned by its management and staff and it has been in business for more than 100 years. It is one of the largest, and last remaining truly independent insurance broking firms in the UK, and has offices spanning the UK from Shetland to London. The company has a team of over 165 and provides a full range of commercial and personal insurance services including corporate, small to medium enterprises (SME), trade credit, demolition, farming and agricultural, health and care, books and collectables and private client. As part of the agreement, TL Dallas will acquire Marsh Commercial’s teams in Elgin, Inverness and Kirkwall, adding to its existing business in the Highlands and Islands. Polly Staveley, Group Managing Director, TL Dallas, said: “The acquisition of Marsh Commercial’s business in Elgin, Inverness and Kirkwall represents a significant milestone for TL Dallas, as we continue with our strategy to serve local businesses with local teams, whatever their size. We see this as a major growth region for our business.” Alistair Fraser, CEO, Commercial and Corporate, Marsh, added: “I am pleased that TL Dallas, with its strong presence in Scotland’s Highlands and Islands where it serves personal customers and SMEs, will be the new custodian of our offices there." "As the UK’s leading risk and insurance specialist serving SME clients in over 40 offices, Marsh Commercial will continue to serve SME clients in Scotland through its offices in Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Oban, and Perth.” TL Dallas first expanded into Scotland in 1993 when it opened an office in Shetland, drawing on its experience in the shipping and textile industries. In 2000, the company opened a second office in Falkirk, before expanding into both Glasgow and Edinburgh in 2011. Edinburgh is also the city where its founder, Thomas Lessels Dallas OBE (great-grandfather of managing director, Polly Staveley) started his business career in commercial shipping insurance, before founding TL Dallas in Bradford in 1919.