St Austell Brewery, the South West’s leading independent brewer, hospitality and drinks wholesale company, has reported strong financial performance with a further year of record-breaking turnover and underlying EBITDA growth of 8.7% in the 52-week period to 28 December 2024. The family-owned company has also unveiled its first significant rebrand in 70 years. The strong trading performance - and increased turnover of £231m - converted into an 8.7% increase in EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation) to £22.4m – demonstrating the positive momentum St Austell Brewery generated in 2024 despite the continued economic headwinds. Gerard Barnes, Chairman, St Austell Brewery, said: “I am pleased to report that despite the sustained challenges in the sector, the company has once again achieved record turnover, and importantly, has also converted this performance into increased EBITDA." “While inflation has eased, a combination of fragile consumer confidence, higher taxation, the lowest number of visitors to the South West in a decade, and a second summer of disappointing weather, conspired to provide a challenging backdrop in 2024." “The financial results represent continued momentum and positive progress against our strategic plans. As we continue to navigate the many challenges and evolving customer demands, our ambitious capital investment programme remains key to our long-term success.” In 2024 St Austell Brewery invested £18.3m in capital expenditure across all areas of the business. During the 52-week period, St Austell Brewery’s managed houses delivered strong sales growth, significantly outperforming the market with like for like growth of 13%. Building on the success of winning Best Accommodation Provider at the 2024 Publican Awards, the company was also awarded Best Brewing Pub Company in 2025. In addition, 35 of its managed pubs and nine tenanted pubs were recognised with Reputation 800 and 900 Awards - the gold standard for exceptional guest experience. Further highlights from 2024 include the successful reopening of the iconic Pier House in Charlestown following a devastating fire in January 2023. In the beer business, there was continued investment in the company’s brewing capability and its brands. 2024 saw the launch of Proper Job 0.5% - a strategic move into the no and low category. Following the investment into Harbour Brewing Company in 2022, the performance of its lead brand, Arctic Sky, continues to deliver strong growth + 78% on the previous year. In parallel to announcing its annual results, the 174-year-old company has unveiled its first major rebrand in more than 70 years. The new brand identity aims to positively evolve the company and ensure it underpins St Austell Brewery’s ambitions for the future. Kevin Georgel, Chief Executive, St Austell Brewery, said: “I’m proud of the strong financial performance in 2024 which came off the back of a very strong 2023. The results are all the more meaningful given the challenging trading environment. Despite the sustained economic headwinds, and wider market challenges, the commitment and passion of our people, and the resilience of the company, have enabled us to deliver continued growth in both revenue and profits.” “As we look forward, whilst the outcome of the autumn budget has created significant additional cost pressures - necessitating some difficult, but necessary decisions to review and reduce our operational structure - we remain resolutely focused on delivering our long-term strategy and sustainable growth." “Our recent rebrand signals our intent to future-proof the company. The evolution of our brand isn’t just about a new identity, it’s about clarifying and refining our purpose, positively evolving our values, launching our new sustainability plan, and aligning everything we do with the world we want to help shape." “Guided by extensive research and insight from both inside and outside of the business, we are committed to ensuring that we are fit for the future. The rebrand is a natural and considered step forward which underpins our ambitions for the future and the generations to come.” Kevin added: “Next year we celebrate 175 years of St Austell Brewery. Drawing on our rich heritage, through the evolved brand story, we’re proud to unveil a clearer, more confident vision for the future. This is more than a new visual identity. It represents a thoughtful, holistic evolution of our brand - designed to reinforce our position in the market and support the next phase of our growth. More importantly, it’s a statement of intent and demonstrates our commitment to our people, our guests, and the great experiences we deliver." “With encouraging financial results, a bold new identity and ongoing investment across our pubs, brands and our people, St Austell Brewery remains firmly on a growth trajectory.”

Derby-based construction firm East Midlands Masonry Ltd is celebrating after its growing order book sailed past the £2.5m milestone before its first anniversary. Since its launch in June 2024, East Midlands Masonry has experienced significant growth, securing a strong pipeline of projects and reinforcing its reputation in the construction sector. Having successfully delivered developments worth almost £2m already in the past six months, the firm – headquartered at Cardinal Square, Derby – now boasts an order book exceeding £2.5m. Business has been buoyed in part thanks to the team’s strong relationship with a Leeds-based care provider, which has led to the ongoing construction of three care homes - in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, Oadby, in Leicestershire, and Worksop, in Nottinghamshire. Specialising in commercial projects, East Midlands Masonry serves a diverse client base, including healthcare facilities, schools and Ministry of Defence developments. The company employs 16 permanent staff alongside a team of trusted subcontractors to deliver high-quality brickwork and blockwork contracts. Managing director Robert Hodgkinson expressed confidence in the firm’s outlook following just one year since incorporation. “We’ve got off to a great start and quickly built a solid foundation for the business,” he said. “I’m delighted to be leading a young, agile and committed team that people enjoy doing business with – a key quality which often sets us apart from the competition." “We’re very focused on the future and investing in the skills needed to ensure long-term success.” Robert’s claim is reinforced by the fact that four of his permanent team members are apprentices. “This clearly demonstrates our commitment to nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals – one of the biggest challenges facing the industry today,” he said. East Midlands Masonry also brings a wealth of experience to the table, with Robert supported in an ad hoc consultancy role by his dad Ian Hodgkinson, a well-connected industry veteran. Ian’s expertise was recently highlighted in his role as resident project manager on BBC1 TV series DIY SOS. Robert added: “I truly value the opportunity to draw on our family roots to help guide the business forward. A really healthy order book combined with some successfully completed projects in our first 12 months is the best birthday present we could have asked for.” For further information about the firm, visit www.eastmidlandsmasonry.co.uk .

Minister for Business Richard Lochhead has visited Crieff Hydro to see the results of a £5million investment in a complete dining refurbishment for the iconic resort. Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels CEO Stephen Leckie met with Mr. Lochhead at an event thanking the contractors, suppliers and partners involved in the landmark project, attended by more than 250 guests. The event was also attended by Jim Fairlie, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, and Xander McDade, Provost of Perth & Kinross. The hotel’s transformation has created six new bar and restaurant spaces and marks one of the largest single investments ever made by Scotland’s oldest registered trading company. Richard and Charlie Leckie – the sixth generation of the Leckie family – have steered the project, alongside Fiona Leckie, the resort’s longstanding Head of Interiors. Richard Lochhead said: “Business Minister Richard Lochhead said: “This is an important milestone for a business synonymous with Scottish tourism. “Crieff Hydro is an important economic driver in the region, providing investment, jobs and bringing new customers to local businesses. I look forward to watching the business flourish for decades to come and commend their leadership and dedication to top-rate tourism and hospitality.” Stephen Leckie said: “This landmark project could not have been achieved without the hard work and passion of our entire team and the partner businesses who helped bring it to life." “This is the most significant investment we have made in decades and marks the start of a new era in Crieff Hydro’s 157-year history. This project, and our ongoing efforts to continually better the experience we offer to our guests, underscores our commitment to championing Scotland’s world-class hospitality sector.” The new venues within the resort include EAST, an Asian small plates concept; The Ballroom Bar, an elegant, relaxed, contemporary day-to-night bar; and The Winter Garden, an airy Victorian heritage space that has been modernised and offers all-day dining. Loggia, a new panoramic brunch and afternoon tea destination with sweeping views over Strathearn Valley, has also been introduced. Menus across all the new restaurants champion the very best of Scottish provenance, with Crieff Hydro’s team of chefs working closely with long-standing nearby suppliers to bring plenty of local and regional produce to customers. The project was supported by Denholm Partnership Architects, who have worked with Crieff Hydro on a number of key projects over the last two decades, with all interiors concepts and designs created by Glasgow based 3 Design. The fit out of the entire project was undertaken by principal contractors Thomas Johnstone.

Bagnalls has had a passion for painting since 1875 and now the national decorating contractors are changing the game for female decorators when it comes to workwear. During development of its new range of inclusive PPE – specifically created in a variety of sizes and fits to cater to both men and women – Bagnalls realised that no one else had ever considered the needs of a female-specific bib and brace for painting and decorating. So, the team decided to create a bespoke Bagnalls version. Bespoke workwear for all Bagnalls worked with its supply chain partner to design new workwear to combat the issues that one-size-fits-all clothing creates. Becky Slater, Head of Safety, Health, Environment and Quality (SHEQ) at the company, realised that many other female colleagues were dealing with the same issues that she faced on a daily basis. “There’s not a huge choice for women when it comes to PPE and workwear in the painting and decorating industry – and the choices we do have are usually limited to a shade of pink! Almost all of the workwear used in our industry is intended for the male body and is therefore very oversized on a lot of women, especially those of us who are of a smaller build." “I found a lot of the workwear uncomfortable to wear when on site and would often wear two pairs of thick socks to ensure that the work-issue boots fit my feet properly. Speaking to other female colleagues – and male colleagues who are of a smaller build – we realised we were all experiencing the same issues." “That’s when I decided to do something about the situation and develop our own, Bagnalls-branded workwear, with options tailored to both the male and female body. This ensures that everyone feels comfortable, safe and equal at work. Each piece of clothing has been designed by us using the invaluable feedback provided by our people.” It was also important to Bagnalls that the clothing range be sustainable. “Some of the workwear is even made from recycled bottles,” Becky explains. “Once the clothes are finished with, they are collected locally at our individual branches, so that they can be recycled into either car door insulation or industrial rags. Bagnalls is committed to doing what we can to make our business more environmentally friendly, doing our bit to help protect our planet.” The bespoke workwear is available to everyone within the Bagnalls family, from apprentices to painters, decorators and the managerial team. Empowering women Created in partnership with Stronghold, the bespoke work garments are stretchy, breathable and move with the body during physical work. The range encompasses t-shirts, trousers, footwear, high-visibility clothes and more – including the traditional bib and brace. “No one else offers a female-fit bib and brace,” Becky proudly reveals. “It’s fantastic that Bagnalls can be the first company to offer this style of workwear, specifically made to fit the female body. However, it is also troubling that our industry hasn’t already identified and solved this problem. We want to correct this imbalance and make sure that the female members of our Bagnalls family feel empowered, safe and comfortable at work.” Bagnalls has seen an increase in the number of young women becoming a part of the painting and decorating industry, with women making up 33% of their recent apprentice intake. Women are increasingly becoming an integral part of the industry, whether as painters on site, Supervisors, Contracts Managers, or working in other office-based roles. Now, with Bagnalls’ new workwear range, female talent within the industry will feel that their specific needs have been recognised and addressed. As Becky explains, “We want women to feel excited about beginning a career in such a rewarding and varied industry. That’s why it’s so important to solve these issues, making the space one that welcomes, empowers and values women and their contributions.”

An inspiring new addition to the Windermere shoreline is honouring the memory of Olympic swimmer, teacher and mother of two Helen Smart. Helen sadly and unexpectedly passed away in 2023 at the age of 42 whilst on holiday with all her family in the Lake District. Her husband Craig Smart wanted to honour Helen’s incredible life and the place she loved so much by creating a memorial at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa in the Lake District, where the couple tied the knot in 2015. Craig contacted the spa resort’s wedding team to explain his idea, which led to discussions with English Lakes Hotels estates director Tim Berry and the hotel group’s resident local sculptor and stone mason Shawn Williamson. The result is the creation of ‘Helen’s Seat’, a Lakeland slate boulder carved as a memorial and a place to sit on the edge of Windermere with sweeping views of the Langdale Pikes and surrounding fells. Craig says: “The idea was to create a place where Helen’s spirit can be felt and her memory celebrated. Helen was a remarkable woman: an Olympian, an inspirational educator, a talented musician, and above all, a deeply loved wife, mother, daughter and friend. Her career was marked by incredible dedication, discipline and belief in herself." “Helen’s favourite place in the world was the Lake District, where she found peace, happiness, and shared many treasured memories with her family. Our wedding at Low Wood Bay was the most amazing day and every year, we returned on our anniversary." “A huge and heartfelt thank you to Tim Berry, Shawn Williamson and the rest of the Low Wood Bay team for creating this amazing memorial for Helen. It is absolutely perfect - a peaceful, loving space where all of Helen’s family and friends can come, sit, reflect, and remember the amazing person she was. Helen was a true champion - on the world stage, in the classroom, and in our hearts.” As a world-class backstroke swimmer, Helen proudly represented Great Britain in the 200m backstroke at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. She earned a bronze medal at the 1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur, and silver medals at the 1999 World Short Course Championships and the European Championships, setting numerous British records and winning national titles along the way. Following her retirement from competitive swimming, Helen devoted herself to teaching. As Headteacher of Worsley Mesnes Community Primary School in Wigan, she continued to inspire with her passion, warmth, and commitment to every child’s future. Her school motto was “learn like champions”. She was also a proud playing member of the Pemberton Old Wigan DW Brass Band, where her joy for music shone brightly. English Lakes Hotels estates director Tim Berry says: “From speaking to Craig from the moment he got in touch with us, we were keen to help. It’s clear that Helen achieved so much, not only through her exemplary careers in top flight sport and education, but also in the inspirational way she lived her life." “We put Craig in touch with Shawn to develop the idea of the stone memorial and organise its installation here. We wanted something natural and that children and adults alike would enjoy for years to come." “The boulder originally came down the fell from behind Low Wood Bay and was dropped here by a glacier, so it’s fitting that it should still remain here on site and is now in a location where we are helping to restore the shoreline and regenerate the natural reed bed.”

Biddenden 2021 Vintage Sparkling Cider has officially been named Supreme Champion at the British Cider Championships 2025, held at the Royal Bath & West Show, one of Europe’s most prestigious cider competitions. The win marks a milestone moment for the Barnes family and for Kent, placing Biddenden at the pinnacle of British cider-making. Crafted using méthode traditionnelle, the same approach used to produce Champagne, this vintage cider is a masterclass in Kentish fruit, winemaking finesse, and patience. Made from a carefully balanced blend of Bramley, Cox and Russet apples grown in Kent, the cider is aged in stainless steel, with some lees stirring and spends a minimum of 12 months on cork before being released. The result: crisp bubbles, vibrant orchard aromas and a refined dry finish that has wowed judges and cider lovers alike. “Fantastic,” says Tom Barnes, General Manager and third-generation family member at Biddenden. “As a business we’re just so very proud. To be awarded Supreme Champion at such a high level is an honour and testament to what we do here blending local ingredients, heritage and winemaking precision. We’re so honoured to have brought this accolade home to the Heart of the Garden of England, Kent.” Cider Reimagined – from the Heart of Kent Originally planted in 1969, Biddenden is Kent’s original commercial vineyard, still owned and managed by the Barnes family over 56 years later. While renowned for their wines, Biddenden has been producing cider since the 1970s and this further highlights this success story. “We’ve been making cider since the 1970s when my father, Julian, first launched Biddenden Cider and although we no longer have orchards, we work closely with local growers in Kent, some for over 40 years!”, Tom explains. “Kentish Bramley apples play a heavy role in our blends and work well alongside Cox and Russet. The key to the quality of our ciders is the wine-making techniques that we employ, including ageing on the lees, the disgorging of the yeast and the addition of a ‘dosage’, the ingredients of which are a closely guarded secret. To have our cider recognised at the national level is incredibly special.” The winning cider impressed judges with its lightness, balance and standout character, taking top honours in a field of entries from across the UK. Chair of Judges, Martin Thatcher, from Thatcher’s Cider, described it as: “Outstanding – perfectly balanced, light, fresh, and with that ‘wow factor’ from the first sip.” Championing Local, Supporting Tourism, Celebrating Kent The award comes at a time when Kent’s reputation as a food and drink destination is booming, with visitors seeking authentic, local experiences. Biddenden’s tours, tastings and on-site shop have become a must-visit for both tourists and trade, offering a true taste of the county’s rural richness. “We’re more than just a producer,” says Tom. “We’re a place to visit, to learn, to taste and to celebrate what makes Kent so special. This win helps put Biddenden and Kent on the map, even more so than before, not just for wine and cider, but for craftsmanship and being a tourism destination.” Biddenden’s Sparkling Cider is already making waves among buyers, hospitality outlets and discerning drinkers looking for premium, English-made alternatives to Champagne and Prosecco. The cider is available directly from Biddenden or online. It is ideal for celebrations, gifts or a summer aperitif. Award-Winning Across the Board This year’s competition saw Biddenden take home two major accolades: • Supreme Champion & Best in Class – Sparkling Cider 2021 • Best In Class Fruit Cider – Biddies Strawberry Mint • Silver award – Biddenden Ice Cider 2021 Visit Biddenden year-round for tastings, tours and local produce.

Family has always been important at leading zero-emission bus manufacturer Wrightbus, but this Father’s Day will be extra special with 19 pairs of dads and lads on the payroll. From factory floor to senior management, 19 fathers work in the record-breaking Ballymena firm alongside their children. “It’s a real privilege seeing my son come into the company and grow in his role,” said Global Sales Director John McLeister, whose son Nathan joined in 2022. “Watching his progression unfold has not only made me proud as a father, but it’s also given him a real insight into the kind of work I’ve been doing throughout his formative years. It’s brought a new level of understanding and connection between us.” Nathan, who’s the UK Commercial Manager, explained: “My dad has worked at Wrightbus for as long as I can remember. Growing up just outside Ballymena, I would often pass the factory and always knew that’s where he worked. I also remember him giving me model buses, which I still have today." “When I finished University and moved back home, I realised the huge amount of different roles that were available at Wrightbus, and the great opportunities it offered locally.” Manufacturing Manager William Lorimer celebrates 40 years of working at Wrightbus next year, a feat made all the sweeter for the fact his son Jason has worked there for nearly half of them. “We get to spend a lot of time together and watching him progress through the company fills me full of pride,” he said. “While it also means that we’re never able to switch off – talking about work at the dinner table or over the weekend - bus-building is something we just have in common. I wouldn’t change it.” Jason, who started as an apprentice in 2007 and is now Head of Output at the factory, added: “Over the last 18 years I have developed through various roles, all with different challenges, but the good thing is that I always had someone to ask for advice, someone I could give scenarios too and who I was able to trust." “If there were weeks that got on top of me, I was able to discuss over the dinner table or at the weekend and he always listened or gave me advice on similar situations he was involved in.” Wrightbus CEO Jean-Marc Gales said while the company was constantly evolving the next generation of products, it was the next generation of workers who would push the business to even greater heights. “We always say Wrightbus is like a family but these people prove it, quite literally, and our business is all the better for it,” he explained. “Father’s Day is a really special day in the calendar but this is our turn to celebrate the fathers who work here alongside their children every day, helping Wrightbus become the best bus manufacturer in the world.”

Yorkshire textile dyeing firm cuts carbon footprint with innovative heat recovery system called Atkinson Dyeing, a specialist yarn dyeing facility established in 1978 and acquired by woollen mill AW Hainsworth in 2019, has undergone significant transformation to improve environmental performance and modernise operations. The centrepiece of this transformation is the installation of a state-of-the-art heat recovery system, which captures 60°C wastewater and uses it to preheat incoming cold water to 50°C. This system is designed to reduce the site’s reliance on gas, delivering a major reduction in carbon emissions. At its full potential, this is projected to lower the facility’s gas bill by 20% and electricity by 10%. This investment builds on a range of infrastructure and operational improvements made across the Atkinson Dyeing site in Keighley. The winding area has been upgraded to increase efficiency, featuring the installation of 3D fans to reduce dust and improve air quality, a new insulated roof, upgraded LED lighting, and new windows that increase natural light. Reusable cones continue to reduce plastic waste, while new, in-house-engineered yarn-stripping machines have improved speed and process control. The site also introduced computer-controlled dyeing machines, which reduce water consumption compared to traditional methods. Water and chemical management has also been a priority. The site utilises river abstraction rights to reduce its reliance on mains water and ensures that all used water is treated offsite, with no discharge returning to the river. To mitigate environmental risks, bunds have been installed beneath chemical storage areas to contain any potential leaks. There has also been a focus on recycling and reuse efforts, with all cardboard, plastic, and wood being recycled and repurposed where possible. On the technical side, Atkinson Dyeing has implemented an OrgaTEXcloud-based planning system to enhance production traceability and scheduling across departments. Richard Smith, Operations Manager at Atkinson Dyeing, commented: “In previous years, we’ve installed power-saving inverters on our machinery, switched to an electric forklift truck, and converted the oil powered boiler to a more efficient gas burner, which reduced energy usage by 64%." “We still have a long way to go, but we’re proud of the progress made at Atkinson Dyeing. From facility upgrades to innovative technology and sustainable practices, we are continuously investing in our long-term vision for growth, environmental responsibility, and workplace wellbeing.” The facility’s progress is closely monitored using a carbon intensity model that tracks emissions per kilogram of yarn processed. This method allows the team to maintain high levels of transparency and accountability while setting a clear baseline for future reductions. The improvements at Atkinson Dyeing form part of AW Hainsworth’s broader sustainability strategy, which is supported through Planet Mark certification and a formal roadmap towards reaching Net Zero.

Leading Scottish hospitality group Buzzworks has officially become the first multi-venue hospitality business in Scotland to achieve B Corporation certification. Joining a global movement of businesses that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability to balance profit and purpose, Buzzworks earned its certification following an in-depth evaluation by B Lab, the nonprofit organisation behind the B Corp movement. Buzzworks Managing Director, Kenny Blair, who has been instrumental in leading the business through the rigorous certification process, said: “Achieving B Corp Certification has been one of the most challenging and rewarding journeys we’ve undertaken as a business. With our scale, it was no small task, but we were absolutely determined to make it happen." “At Buzzworks, we’ve always believed in doing the right thing for our people, through industry-leading training and development initiatives, for the communities we operate in, by creating jobs and supporting local charities, and for the planet. Becoming a Certified B Corporation is a major step forward in our commitment to all three." “We are incredibly proud of this achievement. It’s a testament to the collective effort of our team and the values we live by every day at Buzzworks.” This certification reflects Buzzworks’ long-standing commitment to social responsibility, sustainability, and ethical business practices. The company continues to work closely with a range of charities and community partners, while also taking significant steps to address its environmental impact - including a commitment to reduce waste and energy consumption. These efforts are underpinned by ongoing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) tracking to measure Buzzworks’ progress and ensure continued accountability. The recognition comes on the back of another successful year for the family-owned business, with turnover rising 18% from £29.9m to £34.8m in 2024. This follows a major win at the prestigious Publican Awards — another first for a Scottish operator — and continued investment in growing its portfolio across Scotland. Buzzworks has ambitious plans to double the size of the business, bringing its award-winning culture and values to even more communities. Its three core values — Care with Flair, Grow Forward Together, and Value Every Voice — have shaped its B Corp journey and will continue to guide the company’s future. Renowned for its industry-leading employee benefits, training and development, flexible working options, and wellbeing initiatives, Buzzworks remains committed to being a great place to work and grow.

Sentiment amongst retailers fell at the sharpest rate in five years in May, with the net balance of firms expecting their business situation to deteriorate over the coming quarter, according to the CBI’s latest quarterly Distributive Trades Survey. Year-on-year retail sales volumes fell in May, a decline expected to accelerate next month. However, online sales fared better, with volumes rising in the year to May, following six consecutive months of falling or flat sales. Against a backdrop of subdued demand, retailers plan to reduce investment and headcount. Retailers are expecting to significantly scale back capital expenditure in the next 12 months compared to the last 12. This cautious outlook shows only modest improvement on February's reading, which marked its weakest point since the onset of COVID-19 in 2020. Total employment fell in May compared to a year ago, with the pace of decline expected to accelerate in June. Key findings included: Year-on-year retail sales fell in May (weighted balance of -27% from -8% in April). Sales are expected to decline at a faster rate next month (-37%). Retail sales for the time of year were judged to be “poor” in May, but to a lesser extent than in April (19% from -31% in April). June sales are set to remain below seasonal norms (-21%). Sentiment amongst retailers plummeted in May at the sharpest rate in five years, with a net balance of firms expecting their business situation to worsen over the coming quarter (-29% from -19% in February). Retailers expect to scale back investment plans in the next 12 months (compared to the previous 12) to a significant extent (-47% from -56% in February). Employment in retail declined at a broadly steady rate in the year to May, compared to the previous quarter (-15% from -13% in February). Headcount is expected to fall at a quicker pace next month (-20%). Retail selling price inflation picked up in the year to May but remained below the long-run average for the fifth consecutive quarterly survey (+35% from +25% in February; long-run average +41%). Retailers anticipate selling prices to increase at an accelerated rate next month (+57%). Total distribution sales volumes (including retail, wholesale, and motor trades) declined in the year to May at the joint-fastest rate since January 2021 (-43% from -26% in April). Businesses anticipate another strong decline in sales for June, albeit at a slower pace (-38%). Ben Jones, Lead Economist, CBI, said: “This was a fairly downbeat survey and highlights some of the challenges facing the retail and wider distribution sector. In contrast to other recent retail data, this survey suggests parts of the sector are still struggling with fragile consumer demand, though online sales seem to be holding up better." “Firms are also feeling the impact of higher NICs and the National Living Wage increase. Our quarterly survey suggests that retailers are cutting back on hiring, scaling back investment and expect to increase selling prices at the fastest pace for over a year." “With the Spending Review on the horizon, the government has an opportunity to kickstart growth and incentivise investment, whether by reforming business rates, simplifying skills investment through the Apprenticeship Levy reform or expanding the Made Smarter Programme, further enabling digital adoption.” In addition, data from the survey showed: Retail orders placed upon suppliers declined at an accelerated rate in the year to May (-41% from -24% in April). Retailers expect to cut back on orders at a steady pace in June (-42%). Retailers reported that stock volumes  in relation to expected demand dipped below the long-run average in May (+12% from +21% in April; long-run average +17%). Stock positions are expected to ease further next month (+9%). Online retail sales volumes  grew at a strong rate in the year to May, following six consecutive months of falling or flat sales (+37% from -1% in April). Retailers expect online sales to grow again next month, but at a moderate rate (+17%). Wholesale annual sales volumes  fell in May at the fastest rate since June 2020 (-48% from -33% in April). Wholesalers expect the sales decline to slow next month (-30%). Motor trades annual sales volumes  contracted in May at the joint-quickest rate since October 2022 (-65% from -50% in April). Motor traders expect sales to decline at the same pace in June (-65%).

Environmental Street Furniture Ltd (ESF) is proud to announce today, on World Environment Day 2025, the launch of its new Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiative, designed to assist businesses in meeting their Tier 3 carbon reduction requirements. The initiative, entitled “ESG by ESF,” offers a comprehensive range of sustainable street furniture solutions, including 100% recycled plastic products, solar-powered innovations, and wind energy technologies, all aimed at helping organizations achieve their Net Zero targets. As the global emphasis on sustainability intensifies, companies are increasingly facing pressure to comply with stringent carbon reduction mandates. The ESG by ESF initiative provides an effective pathway for businesses, councils, architects, factories, educational institutions, and retail sectors to enhance their environmental responsibility and sustainability practices through innovative street furniture solutions. One of the hallmark offerings of ESG by ESF is the Wombles Collection, a range of street furniture crafted entirely from post-consumer waste. This collection exemplifies ESF’s commitment to reducing plastic waste while providing durable, stylish, and functional outdoor furniture. By utilizing 100% recycled materials, organizations can significantly lessen their carbon footprint and contribute to a circular economy. In addition to the Wombles Collection, ESF introduces solar-powered street furniture, which includes solar charging benches and solar compacting litter bins. These products not only provide essential services to the community but also generate renewable energy, further reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The solar charging benches allow users to power devices sustainably, while the solar compacting litter bins optimize waste management, leading to fewer collections and reduced vehicle emissions. To further enhance energy efficiency, ESF is introducing the Wind Tree, an innovative solution designed to harness energy from wind currents. This unique product captures wind energy to power street lighting and other public amenities, effectively reducing the use of fossil fuels and contributing to a greener urban environment. “Environmental responsibility is no longer just an option; it is a necessity,” said Alan Lowry, CEO of Environmental Street Furniture Ltd, the recent recipient of the Northern Ireland Sustainable business leader of the years for 2025. “With our ESG by ESF initiative, we are empowering organizations to take meaningful steps towards sustainability. Our products are designed to not only meet regulatory requirements but also to inspire communities to embrace eco-friendly practices.” ESF’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond product offerings. The company is dedicated to educating its partners and clients on the importance of carbon reduction throughout their supply chains. By collaborating with businesses to implement these innovative solutions, ESF aims to create a lasting impact on the environment while supporting organizations in their journey towards achieving Net Zero.

Leonard Curtis has secured a commercial mortgage deal for Devrim Zana, an independent restaurant in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. Trading as Enver’s Turkish Grill, the family-owned business has built a loyal customer base with its recipes inspired by traditional Turkish cuisine and unique dining experience. A commercial mortgage was agreed by challenger business bank, Allica Bank, with Leonard Curtis’ funding team leveraging their sector knowledge and expertise within the leisure industry to source the most appropriate solution for the business. Kelly McGrath, Business Development Manager at Leonard Curtis, said: “Labour availability, inflation and consumer spending changes have created a challenging environment within the leisure industry so it’s positive to see independent, family-owned restaurants like Enver’s continuing to thrive. The deal with Allica Bank will not only secure the business’ future, but reduces its outgoings, allowing the reinvestment of capital for other priorities.” Leonard Curtis’ funding team navigated series of challenges to get the purchase completed, working in partnership with Leonard Curtis Legal. Kirstie Taskin, Director of Devrim Zana, commented: “Buying our commercial building was a stressful experience at times but Kelly kept us calm and guided us through every step. From the very beginning, she was knowledgeable, responsive, and incredibly patient—always there to answer our questions and offer reassurance when things felt overwhelming. Her expertise and steady support made a huge difference.” Ben Green, Business Development Manager at Allica Bank, supported Devrim Zana and Leonard Curtis throughout the process. Ben said: “The Allica team is delighted to have been able to support this thriving Sheffield restaurant and secure their future in the area. Hospitality and leisure businesses often struggle to find banks with the expertise to lend to them, which is why it was so important they had the support of Kelly and the Leonard Curtis team. It has been rewarding to collaborate with them on this.”