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- Dina Foods Goes Dinalicious® On Mamoul
Mediterranean foods supplier Dina Foods is launching a new Dinalicious® umbrella brand, starting with new-look packaging on its mamoul filled biscuits, as part of a major rebrand across its authentic confectionery ranges. The traditional sweet biscuits, mamoul, are made with semolina dough, filled with nuts or dates. Dina Foods offers three fillings: walnut, mixed nuts (cashew and pistachio) and dates in new-look Dinalicious® assortment packs, which are available in 200g or 1kg versions. The Dinalicious® brand will be an umbrella brand covering a range of artisan confectionery products from the family company Dina Foods. Project Director Wilda Haddad explains: “We will be bringing together a variety of our authentic and delicious Eastern Mediterranean confectionery under this brand.” The vegetarian-friendly Dinalicious® range will include dates, mamoul, and similar confectionery, excluding Dina Foods’ filo pastry lines, she says. Alongside Dinalicious®, a Filo Delights® branded range is set to include classic baklawa and Dina Foods’ other traditional filo pastry-based confectionery lines. Dina Foods plans to extend its sales of mamoul with major multiple retailers and ethnic convenience stores over the next 12 months, through retail and wholesale channels across the UK and continental Europe. The new look Dinalicious® mamoul is launching with Lidl and Costco. Mamoul boxes also signpost the fact that packaging can be recycled to encourage consumers to recycle, as Dina Foods focuses on minimising its environmental impact across its business. Other measures that Dina Foods is taking include upgrading equipment for maximum energy efficiency, purchasing from sustainable sources, monitoring and managing waste and moving employee vehicles to hybrid or electric options.
- Global Family Business Pumps Cash Into Nottinghamshire Attraction
A Nottinghamshire museum and tourist attraction has been given a cash injection after a global packaging giant named it as February’s charity in its ‘year of giving’ campaign. The campaign, launched by The Wilkins Group, based in Colwick, Nottingham, will see the firm making a donation each month throughout 2025 to local causes impacted by the current economic climate. Papplewick Pumping Station, a grade II* listed building and tourist attraction located in Rigg Lane, Ravenshead, is this month’s chosen charity partner. It received a cheque for £1,000 this week. Papplewick Pumping Station has been hailed as “Britain’s finest Victorian waterworks”. The freshwater pumping station celebrates its industrial heritage, preserving the pumping station thanks to enthusiastic volunteers, donations, and visitor numbers to the site’s award-winning family museum. Recognised as a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England, the venue holds regular ‘steaming’ events as well as being a unique wedding venue. Justin Wilkins, joint managing director at The Wilkins Group, which makes food packaging for many of the UK's leading food producers, said: “We may be a global brand, but we are immensely proud of our Nottingham roots and want to support local attractions and charities that celebrate the city and county’s rich heritage." “Papplewick Pumping Station not only celebrates its past but also provides an educational and entertaining venue for the present and future.” The Wilkins Group announced its ‘year of giving' campaign in December. It kick-started the initiative with an innovative calendar and desk tidy that was sent to its customers as a Christmas gift. Each month, the calendar highlights a different Nottinghamshire charity, outlining its work and why The Wilkins Group would be donating towards each cause. In January, Green’s Windmill in Sneinton was the first chosen recipient of a donation. Justin said: "As February’s chosen charity cheque is handed over, we want to take a moment to recognise and support the venue’s work." “Papplewick Pumping Station is a beautiful place that stands as testament to how it tackled water pollution from industrial Nottingham of the 1880s, pumping millions of gallons of clean fresh water to the city’s industries and its rapidly growing population thus improving public health and Nottingham residents’ quality of life.” The Wilkins Group is also dedicated to improving the environmental impact of industry. Creating packaging designs and innovations that aim to reduce and ultimately eradicate single-use plastics within the industry, it is already leading the way in alternatives including board trays for food packaging, including the use of compostable materials, and 100 per cent plastic-free hangers. Ashley Smart, museum director at Papplewick Pumping Station, said: “This donation means everything to us, and it was a real surprise when we found out about it. The generosity of The Wilkins Group is so much appreciated, as are all the kind donations we receive." “Maintaining such an important industrial museum is a colossal undertaking – we often liken it to painting the Forth Bridge – so we are truly grateful for every bit of help we get.” Papplewick Pumping Station was designed by celebrated engineer Marriott Ogle Tarbotton, who also designed Trent Bridge. The Nottingham Borough Engineer also planned and oversaw the construction of the city’s underground sewerage system – the first outside London. Justin said: “The idea of our ‘year of giving’ calendar and campaign has been a huge success. Our clients have loved it and to be able to give something back to our hometown and its residents has been tremendous. We are now looking forward to March’s cheque presentation." The Wilkins Group is a family run firm that produces food packaging for the likes of Pukka, Pizza Express, Harrods and Cadbury - to name a few. It also is credited with producing bespoke and award-winning items such as eco-friendly coat hangers and the iconic M&S light-up glitter gin bottles.
- Novus Begins Work In Southwest Following Anchor Contract Wins
National specialist maintenance contractor Novus Property Solutions has commenced work on its contract for two lots on the Anchor Outsourced Responsive Repairs and Asset Investment Works programme. Anchor is England’s largest not-for-profit provider of housing and care for people in later life, and recently announced a series of major new contracts as part of its transformation of repairs and planned works as it pioneers the digitisation of its operations. The programme’s deals total around £1.7 billion over 15 years, spanning seven regional contracts covering all repairs and planned works related to the structure and fabric of homes across the Anchor estate. Novus successfully tendered for Lot 1 and Lot 6 of the programme, covering the North West and the Southwest Corridor respectively – with the Southwest Corridor works commencing on 30th January 2025. Novus has invested heavily into its team and equipment in readiness for the contract, undertaking an in-depth induction process for new colleagues who have joined the business to support the works, including dementia awareness training. Novus also invested in new dual-branded hybrid vehicles, which feature the Anchor logo alongside Novus’ own branding. Steve Gayter, Executive Director at Novus Property Solutions said: “We’re delighted to have secured contracts for both Lot 1 and Lot 6 of the Anchor Outsourced Responsive Repairs and Asset Investment Works programme, demonstrating our growing reputation as a contractor of choice across Great Britain." “As a family-owned business currently led by fourth and fifth generation family members we’ve long held our reputation for putting people at the heart of everything we do, so we’re proud to have received such positive feedback on our commitment to social value and diversity, equality and inclusion. We’re looking forward to building a positive partnership with Anchor and its communities across the North West and Southwest Corridor, as well as working collaboratively with other successful contractor partners.” Anchor’s Chief Executive, Sarah Jones, said: "We are pleased to be working with Novus in the North West and South West. Completing repairs and planned property works on time, to a good standard, at a price that represents value for money, is central to our residents’ experience of their homes and it is vital that we get this right. We will work in partnership with our new contractors and our technology provider to achieve this outcome for residents, and make the process more efficient for colleagues.”
- Novus Property Solutions Pays Tribute As ‘Captain Of Industry’ Retires
After 73 years with the business, family patriarch ‘Mr’ John Seddon has announced that he will step down from his role as Non-executive Director at the JSSH Group, parent company of national specialist maintenance contractor Novus Property Solutions, to begin his well-earned retirement. Mr John was the third generation of the Seddon family to join the business when he started work as an apprentice bricklayer back in 1952, where he prospered under the guidance of his father, uncle, and grandfather. His legacy will continue to guide Novus Property Solutions, with his strong family values and ethical approach deeply embedded into the business culture and the way it operates. His long service to the family company, including a period as Chairman of the Seddon Group, was also mirrored in his commitment and impact on the wider construction sector. During his seven decades in the business, Mr John saw the family business expand and go from strength to strength, eventually branching out into separate construction and maintenance businesses, with Novus Property Solutions being created in 2013. Mr John will remain on hand to guide the company’s current shareholders, as well as future fifth and sixth generation family members, helping them prepare to step up as the future owners of the business. Paying tribute, Michelle Owen, Non-Executive Chair of Novus Property Solutions and Chief Executive Officer of JSSH Group, said: “Mr John Seddon is highly respected not only within our business but the industry as a whole and he will be truly missed. He brings a wisdom and a calming energy to the business that will be very difficult to replace but we will cherish his legacy and will continue to work in alignment with the family’s shared values.”
- Team Wyvern Gears Up for National STEM Challenge
A team of young engineers from Bishopbriggs Academy is preparing to showcase their technical expertise on the national stage. Team Wyvern, a group of students competing in the prestigious F1 in Schools competition, has earned their place in the UK finals as one of three schools representing Scotland in March. F1 in Schools is an international STEM challenge that pushes students to apply engineering, physics, and business acumen in designing, manufacturing, and racing miniature Formula 1 cars. The competition demands precision, creativity, and an in-depth understanding of aerodynamics, with teams in a race to the finish to produce the fastest, most efficient model. The Bishopbriggs Academy team consists of six young people from across the school’s year groups. They are: Alexander Cai, age 17, in 6th Year - Team Leader & Engineering Dearbháil McGory, age 17, in 6th Year - Design Engineer Tobi Falaye, age 15, in 4th Year - Finance & Sponsorship Manager Arwen MacArthur, age 16, in 5th Year - Social Media & Marketing Manager Jonah Brookes-Hefetz, age 17, in 6th Year - Manufacturing Engineer Zara Ahmed, age 16, in 5th Year - Graphic Designer Team Wyvern’s journey has seen success, with the crew securing a podium finish of second place at the regional finals and taking home the coveted ‘Fastest Car’ award. Their current project incorporates cutting-edge aerodynamic principles, precision engineering, and light-weight materials to achieve optimal speed and stability. The team’s meticulous approach includes iterative design testing, computational fluid dynamics simulations, and precision machining of components to enhance their car’s performance. The competition goes beyond science and engineering, with the team members responsible for sponsorship acquisition, marketing, and strategic branding to secure essential resources for their competitive journey. Limited facilities within their school means they rely on external support to access specialist tools and equipment to optimise their car's performance. With the UK finals in Sheffield fast approaching, Team Wyvern faces the challenge of further refining their car’s performance while balancing logistics, travel arrangements, branding and all the associated expenses. During a recent visit to Allied Vehicles’ Possilpark headquarters, Team Wyvern presented their project to a panel of staff and directors, including two of the company’s engineering managers. Recognising their passion, innovation, and technical expertise, Allied made the decision to sponsor the team with a £2,500 contribution, securing their path to the national finals. Ms Mairi Gilfillan, the Operating Teacher from Bishopbriggs Academy who supervises the team, thanked Allied Vehicles for the sponsorship, saying: “Bishopbriggs Academy are thrilled to partner with Allied Vehicles and have them join our journey towards achieving success in F1 in Schools. With their help and commitment to our team, they are not only providing us with resources and materials but also supporting the next generation of engineers.” Team Leader Alexander Cai, in sixth year, explained the impact of the sponsorship on the Team’s operation: “We’d like to say a massive thank you to Allied Vehicles for their generous support of the Wyvern Racing Team and helping to facilitate STEM opportunities in our community." “Their commitment will not only help Team Wyvern Racing perform to the best of our abilities but also to inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators. With their partnership, we can strive to win the competition, create a lasting impact on STEM education, and inspire local students to pursue careers in STEM.” The Bishopbriggs Academy team’s efforts highlight the dedication and ingenuity of young engineers striving to make an impact in STEM fields. Commenting on the high quality of team’s work, Greg Barnard, Mechanical Engineering Manager at Allied Vehicles, said: “To see this standard of research and engineering coming from young people of high school age is incredible, and the level of engineering, business and marketing skills that Team Wyvern presented to us was extremely impressive. It is refreshing to see a STEM initiative combining engineering theory with traditional and modern manufacturing methods, and, if these young people are any indication, the future of our industry is in safe hands. We are delighted to sponsor them in the UK finals and can’t wait to see them in action.” With Allied’s support, Team Wyvern is on track to go head-to-head with the best teams in the UK for the top spot on the podium.
- Leading Spring Manufacturer Achieves Incredible 100th Patent Milestone
Leading British spring manufacturer and components supplier to the mattress and furniture industry, Spinks, has achieved a major milestone after receiving its 100th patent – demonstrating its ongoing commitment to innovation. The Yorkshire-based company has been granted its 100th patent around the world for a new coil design that will help improve the future of bedding and seating. Richard Essery, Chief Commercial Officer for Spinks, said: “This is a remarkable achievement for the business – few are able to accomplish such a feat, and we are incredibly proud to be leading the way for innovation within the industry." “Reaching such a significant milestone proves our true commitment and dedication to innovation, pushing the boundaries of new technologies, products and processes." “At Spinks we are constantly striving to create new, inventive products that our customers will truly benefit from, and over the years each patent has marked a step forward in our journey to redefine comfort.” The business submitted its first patent in 1996, for its successful Revolution pocket coil invention – a unique pocket spring within a pocket spring system that offers an unmatched level of comfort and support – which has proved to be one of the company’s most notable and successful creations, and is still widely used around the world. Spinks has continued to patent various microcoil inventions, including conical designs, miniature coil within coil models, and microcoils that feature fabrics on the top and bottom to provide different thermal characteristics. The company has also seen success with the introduction of its patent-pending pocket coiling machine, which aims to reduce energy consumption for the business by 60%, as well as minimising raw materials needed in the spring-making process. Now, in 2025, Spinks is planning to launch a number of new innovations that will again set new standards in coil technology for the furniture and seating industries. These designs – of which international patents have been applied for – include next-generation microcoil and core pocket spring systems, all featuring glue-free constructions.
- St Austell Brewery Launches Four Limited-Edition Cask Beers
St Austell Brewery is launching four limited-edition cask beers for 2025 with a special cinema theme. Shark Bait, Outta Time, Breakfast Club, Maverick, and Jingle All the Way complete the star-studded lineup, which is set to take centre stage in a selection of St Austell Brewery’s managed pubs, as well as in its leased and tenanted estate across the West Country, and in independent pubs across the UK throughout the year. The exclusive beers form part of St Austell Brewery’s Cask Club series, which sees its brewers experiment by bringing unique brews to life in its Small Batch Brewery. Shark Bait is light and zesty with flavours of passionfruit and stone fruits. Available from 3rd March, expect a clean, crisp, and fruity 3.9% session pale ale that’s the perfect thirst-quencher to enjoy on dry land. Outta Time is a 4.3% golden ale, featuring a mix of floral, herbal, and tropical hop flavours, which come together in harmony with sweet, oaty malt. Set your destination to the pub and get ready for a pint to remember from 6th March. Breakfast Club, a 4.5% golden ale, is a brewing collaboration between St Austell Brewery and Toast Brewing, a London-based craft brewery that uses surplus bakery bread to brew its beers. The fresh and fruity golden ale has been crafted with British Harlequin and Jester hops alongside Toast’s surplus bread crumb and will be available from 30th June. Maverick is an acceleration of orange, hops, and honey landing on bars from 1st September. Pale in colour and full-bodied, this 4.5% American IPA is brewed with Amarillo, Citra, and Cascade hops. Jingle All the Way will be the Christmas hero of the pub from 17th November. The premium 4.1% amber ale has a rich aroma of piney hops and raisin, toffee, and malt notes. With a deep and bittersweet finish, having been brewed with British ingredients including Challenger and Goldings hops, it’s the perfect tipple to ring in the festive season. Georgina Young, St Austell Brewery’s Brewing Director, said: “We are thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new collection of limited-edition cask beers, inspired by some of the most iconic films in cinematic history." “This exclusive line pays tribute to legendary movies, blending storytelling with great flavours for an immersive drinking experience. Whether you're a fan of action-packed thrillers or timeless classics, there's a brew that should capture everyone.”
- Oliver Denton Joins Twyd & Co As New Chief Of Staff
TWYD & Co is pleased to welcome back Oliver Denton as Chief of Staff, where he will support Managing Partner David Twiddle in driving the firm’s marketing, PR, brand positioning, business development, and research efforts. Oliver previously worked with TWYD in its early days and has since built a diverse career spanning legal, higher education, charities, manufacturing, and textiles. His deep understanding of family enterprises - combined with a strategic approach to marketing and communications—makes him a valuable addition as TWYD continues to strengthen its presence in the market. “Oliver’s return is a significant step for TWYD,” said David Twiddle. “His insights into our work, coupled with his experience across multiple industries, will help us enhance our offering and deepen relationships with clients and our global talent network.” Oliver’s expertise in managing brand strategy and creating meaningful connections will be instrumental in supporting TWYD’s growth. “I’m excited to be back at TWYD & Co and to work alongside David again,” said Oliver. “The firm has evolved, but its mission remains the same—helping families in business thrive. I look forward to contributing to the next phase of growth.” With Oliver in this role, TWYD continues to build a team that understands the unique challenges faced by family enterprises and provides solutions tailored to their needs.
- Family Firm Helps Bring Green Life To Glasgow Health & Social Hub
P1 Contractors and Johnsons Nurseries are proud to have played a key role in the successful delivery of the landscaping and planting for the new Parkhead Health and Social Care Hub in Glasgow. This £72 million state-of-the-art facility, developed by hub West Scotland for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and constructed by BAM Construction, is Scotland’s first net-zero carbon in-operation health hub, setting a new standard for sustainable healthcare infrastructure. The Parkhead Hub brings together GP services, pharmacy, dental care, children’s services, mental health support, training and social work under one roof, making it one of the most significant health projects in Scotland. The facility will also include community spaces such as bookable rooms, a café and the relocation of Parkhead Library. The carefully designed green spaces surrounding the facility are essential in promoting well-being, biodiversity, and community engagement. As the lead landscaping contractor, P1 Contractors managed the full soft landscaping installation which included, soil preparation, groundworks, tree, shrub, herbaceous and bulb planting, turfing and grass seeding. Ryan Whitelaw from P1 Contractors said: “We’re proud to have played a key role in shaping the outdoor environment of the Parkhead Hub. Our work ensures that the facility’s landscape is not only functional but also a lasting green space for the community.” Johnsons Nurseries, a leading UK plant supplier, has enriched the Parkhead Hub’s landscaping with over 120 trees, including Acer campestre, Betula pendula, Pinus sylvestris, and Prunus avium. They also provided more than twenty-three thousand shrubs, grasses and herbaceous plants, featuring over four thousand Prunus Otto Luyken, one thousand eight hundred Pinus Mugo Mops, and thousands of Lonicera Nitida and Ilex aquifolium, creating a vibrant and sustainable green space. Johnsons Group Managing Director Graham Richardson said, " Supplying over 120 trees and more than 23,000 plants for the Parkhead Hub ensures a lasting green legacy for the community." "From trees to shrubs and herbaceous plants, each plant was carefully selected to enhance biodiversity, air quality, and well-being. It was great to work with our long-standing customer, P1 Contractors, on this transformative project, delivering high-quality landscaping that will benefit generations to come.” The Parkhead Health and Social Care Hub is a landmark project bringing essential services together in a net-zero carbon facility, setting a new standard for sustainable healthcare. Through collaboration between hub West Scotland, BAM Construction, P1 Contractors, and Johnsons Nurseries, it creates a welcoming space that will benefit the community for generations.
- Ashfield Football Academy Festival Empowers Young People
Young people in Glasgow’s Canal Ward will benefit from football, mentorship, and life skills support thanks to Ashfield Football Academy’s latest project, ‘Beyond the Game: Empowering Youth and Coaches for Community Impact.’ As one of the largest youth football organisations in north Glasgow, Ashfield Football Academy offers structured football development for approximately 200 players, from grassroots to semi-professional levels. More than just a training ground, the academy fosters discipline, encourages teamwork, and builds leadership skills, preparing young people for success both on and off the pitch. Supported by over 40 dedicated volunteers, Ashfield provides support to young people and families in one of Scotland’s most deprived areas. The Beyond the Game project will use football as a platform to promote personal development, mental health awareness, and employability. The Academy is also planning a football festival this summer to bring the community together for sport and social engagement, while participating in workshops which will focus on essential life skills such as CV building and job readiness. Additionally, volunteer coaches will receive development in football training, first aid, and mental health first aid, ensuring they can provide meaningful support to young people facing challenges in their every-day lives. The Beyond the Game project is no small undertaking, and Ashfield has received £4,500 from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust to help make this initiative a reality. Managing Director of Ashfield Football Academy Paul Maxwell, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Allied Vehicles Group for their continued generosity and unwavering support over the past decade. Their £4,500 donation is a tremendous boost to our mission of empowering young people and volunteer coaches through football, mental health support, and life-skills development. This funding will allow us to make a real difference in our community, creating inclusive opportunities and fostering stronger relationships. Allied Vehicles’ belief in our vision inspires us to keep growing and striving to make a lasting impact.” The funding will support the festival, training programmes and outreach efforts, allowing the academy to continue to be a source of opportunity and support, helping young people in Glasgow develop the skills and confidence to succeed. Gerry Facenna, founder and owner of Allied Vehicles Group, said: “Allied Vehicles has been a proud supporter of Ashfield Football for many years, and we’re delighted to help them continue their fantastic work. We're excited to see the positive impact of this project on the young people in our local community.”
- 5 Hard Truths About Running a Family Business (And How To Get It Right)
Gary Beckwith is a pioneer of the UK tourism industry and family business owner. He is the author of How To Make A Million In Business , which will be published on 25 March 2025. It documents his career from operating London’s first floating cash and carry to becoming the visionary founder and CEO of City Cruises PLC, the book offers a compelling and candid account of a family business owner who shaped the future of the UK’s tourism industry. Over the years, I’ve seen work commitments turn the most doting couples into passing ships in the night and transform great parents into people who never find time for their kids. My solution to this problem was to combine the two biggest areas of my life. It’s taught our family many lessons, some hard-earned. But when we got the balance right, for me, it became the only way to do business. Take Them On The Journey With You (Or Prepare To Go It Alone). My attitude to business has always been all-consuming. If you believe in a four-work week, good luck to you. But it's not for me. What would I do with all my free time? In fact, I’ll tell you what I’d do: I’d start another business. Some people run companies because they don’t want a boss or because they fall into it. For me, it’s who I am. It’s my hobby, my passion and my work. So, I knew from a young age that if I wanted to have any sort of relationship with my family, I had to bring them on the journey with me. With my wife, Rita, at my side and my children, Lucy and Matthew, both playing a part, only then could I strike the delicate balance between work and family. Every Mealtime Becomes A Board Meeting. When my daughter, Lucy, was young, she threw down her knife and fork one afternoon and screamed, “Can we talk about something that isn’t business? Just for once!” There was awkward eye contact around the table for a moment as we acknowledged her point. We then enjoyed a lovely meal in silence. When your dad’s the CEO and your mum’s the MD, it’s got to be tough on you. All you want to do is talk about your school friends or a new singer you’ve fallen in love with. But as you get older and start working in the company, that’s when it really takes over. Every mealtime becomes a board meeting, and my kids have had three a day for most of their lives. Running a business is like your own little Coronation Street. Everyone has a story. It’s almost impossible not to get wrapped up in it. There are sick days, romances, and people leaving and joining. Then there’s the big picture stuff like legislation changes, force majeures, and global events like the Olympics coming to town. The phrase ‘working lunch’ became redundant for us; it was just lunch. So, be prepared because people talk most about the things they have in common. The Kids Have To Make it On Their Own. When my son Matthew turned 15, he’d already been working in the business for a few years. He ran the ticket operation on the South Bank as we transported passengers to the Millennium Dome. He worked in maintenance, on the store barge and in engineering. Then, at 15, we found a master to train him as a captain, and by 21, he was fully qualified. This all gave him crucial context. By the time he worked his way onto the board at the age of just 24, no one could question it. He was well-liked well-respected, and he’d earned it. He was also the only person who had seen the business at every level. He could hold staff accountable but also defend them because he was the only one who truly understood their jobs. He learned very young that there’s only one way out of your parent's shadow: shine your own light. You Must Have A Succession Plan. At the turn of the Millennium, Wilkinson’s (later known as Wilko’s) had 152 shops across the UK. In 2023, the granddaughter of the founder appeared in the House of Commons, answering for the loss of more than 400 stores, 12,000 jobs, 625 million pounds of debt, and a pension deficit of 50 million pounds. My first question when I read things like this is: where was the succession planning? Who was the first person in the company’s upper echelons underqualified for their position? You don’t get to this stage of collapse without a decade of knowing it’s coming. What was your graph telling you? The first time your line stopped, levelled out and came down, what did you do? Did anyone say, “How do we get out of this mess? Why have we got stores in these locations? How do we fix it?” The latest generation may be taking all the flack, but I suspect the problems started long before. You have to plan for when you’re no longer leading the business. Train your staff and put the right people in the right roles, or, one day, your legacy could be in ruins. It’s Not Just YOUR Baby. As we were on the eve of selling our business we were all having second thoughts. I’d spent a lifetime building it and I just wasn’t sure if I could let go. Lucy took it one step further; she was threatening not to sign the paperwork, as she felt blindsided by the sale. And in fairness to her, I should have followed my own advice and taken her on the journey more. She wasn't involved in the sale, so she had no time to process it. Both our kids made sacrifices their entire lives: their holidays, meal times, and even their school plays. In 2019, when we finally put pen to paper, it was the first time we’d ever had Christmas day at home, and by then, they were both in their 30s with kids of their own. It was a lesson to me that just because you create something doesn’t mean it’s yours alone. About the Author - Gary Beckwith is the author of How To Make A Million In Business , which will be published on 25 March 2025, priced £12.99.
- The Hygiene Bank Awards Cleanology Gold Partnership Status
Cleanology, the multi-award-winning UK office and commercial cleaning company, has been awarded the highly coveted Gold Partnership status by charity The Hygiene Bank, in recognition of its ongoing efforts to champion the movement to tackle hygiene poverty in the UK. The prestigious Gold Partnership status with The Hygiene Bank, held only by household names Unilever and Method, highlights Cleanology’s tireless commitment to help end hygiene poverty through financial support, product donations and raising awareness. Over the last four years, Cleanology has raised over £117,000 for the charity, helping to fund vital initiatives. Cleanology has actively contributed to the charity’s work, and now, through this new partnership, will continue to give their support to this necessary cause - at a time when over 4.2 million adults in the UK are living in hygiene poverty (Hygiene Poverty in 2024 report, The Hygiene Bank, 2024). Cleanology has played a significant role in raising the profile of The Hygiene Bank within the Cleaning & Facilities Management industry, through the promotion of their successful annual fundraiser - which this year broke all records - on social media, PR articles and by introducing their suppliers to the work of the charity. Employees from Cleanology have also participated in The Hygiene Bank’s half marathon team for the past two years, raising funds and furthering the charity’s visibility and impact. Dominic Ponniah, CEO and Co-founder of Cleanology, commented: “It continues to shock me that so many families cannot afford to buy basic cleaning and hygiene products. More has to be done to help and support those who need it most, which is why we are thrilled and proud to be appointed a Gold Partner by The Hygiene Bank, and excited to make a real and lasting difference in the fight against hygiene poverty." "Not only is it a privilege and an honour to partner with an organisation that, at its core, helps the most vulnerable by providing basic necessities for living, but we also hope that through this partnership, we can leverage our influence within our industry to champion the needs of others, and, in doing so, play a part in transforming society.” Quote from Ruth Brock, CEO, The Hygiene Bank: " Cleanology’s unwavering support over the years has not only provided vital funds and products in our mission to end hygiene poverty but has also helped amplify our message within the Cleaning & Facilities Management industry. Their commitment to ending hygiene poverty is truly inspiring, and we are delighted to recognise this dedication by awarding them Gold Partnership status. Together, we can continue to drive meaningful change and ensure that no one has to go without the basic essentials that so many of us take for granted.” According to studies undertaken by The Hygiene Bank, hygiene poverty not only impacts mental and physical health but forces families to choose between buying food and paying bills or purchasing basic toiletries such as period products, shampoo, toothpaste or deodorant. For many on a low-income or with disabilities and long-term health conditions. essential products have literally become luxuries they cannot afford. There are many, and sometimes complex, reasons why this happens, such as loss of a job, illness, family breakdown and disability which leaves people without the financial resources to support their basic needs.












