A family-run farm based tourist destination in Castle Douglas has launched a new gelato venture, using milk from its own herd of pedigree Holstein cows to create fresh gelato, after securing support from Business Gateway. Ernespie Farm Centre, led by the McMiken family, has been a working farm for generations but in recent years has diversified into tourism to secure its long-term future. It is now a popular destination for visitors across Dumfries and Galloway, offering a farm-to-fork restaurant, gift shop as well as indoor and outdoor play. In April 2025, the family opened ‘The Gelato Hut’, which scoops up to 18 flavours 7 days a week, including seasonal specials and warm bubble waffles at their evening events. Specialist equipment enables the team to transform their own milk into delicious, creamy gelato, all produced on-site. The expansion into gelato production helps to reduce food miles for visitors and secures local employment. There are also plans underway to supply their gelato to local businesses, further boosting the local economy. The team has a real focus on sustainability, using products produced in the bakery of The Farmhouse Kitchen on-site as additions in their gelato. As well as the milk being used in the gelato, all the beef served in The Farmhouse Kitchen restaurant comes from their own cattle. Director David was determined to find new ways to strengthen the business and provide year-round opportunities, so approached Business Gateway. Through this, David met Business Gateway adviser Fiona Smyth, who supported him with developing business plans, innovation support, advice on funding and advice on expanding premises. Alongside the gelato venture, Ernespie Farm has also invested in a new digital booking system, allowing visitors to book farm park entry, seasonal events and restaurant tables online, helping to increase efficiency and boost occupancy. David McMiken, director at Ernespie Farm Centre, said “Diversification has been key to future-proofing our farm. Launching the gelateria has allowed us to make the most of what we produce here on the farm and offer something unique for our visitors. Business Gateway’s support with funding was invaluable - we simply couldn’t have made this level of investment without it. It’s exciting to now see our gelato being enjoyed on-site and by the wider community.” Gail Macgregor, chair of Business Gateway board, said: “The team at Ernespie Farm has been incredibly proactive in adapting the business and finding new opportunities for growth." "The gelateria is a fantastic addition that not only strengthens the farm park offering but also creates new employment and sustainability benefits for the local area. It’s a great example of diversification done well and Business Gateway is proud to have supported the project.”

Not long ago, after the pandemic, many people believed London’s office era was over. The daily commute vanished, kitchen tables became work desks, and many of London’s tall office buildings sat half-empty. It felt like working from home was here to stay. But the story has changed, explains office agents Pilcher London . As we approach 2026, there are cranes back in the skyline, big companies are investing in large new office buildings, and London's office sector is growing again. Big Firms Are Betting On London One strong sign of this turnaround is a major new office tower planned by a global bank in the Canary Wharf area. Once finished, the tower will house thousands of staff and represent a huge bet on future office demand in London. Similarly, tech juggernaut Amazon is opening new offices in Shoreditch, part of a 40 billion-pound investment plan in the UK. These moves show major employers believe the office still matters — not just as a place to work, but as a part of their long-term business plans. The Office Is Redefined — It’s Not Just A Desk Workplaces today are very different from the rigid offices of the past. Employees are no longer returning simply for a desk. Instead, offices now aim to offer comfort, community, and experiences that people cannot get at home. This new thinking has changed how workplaces are designed. Companies and architects are reimagining offices: they focus on lighting, layout, acoustics, and overall atmosphere to make coming to the office feel worthwhile. The idea is that if commuting is going to be costly and tiring, the office space must feel valuable and inviting. The Hidden Work Behind Modern Offices Behind every newly polished office there is a huge amount of work done quietly behind the scenes. Teams of designers, installers, IT technicians, logistics staff, and many others put in late nights and weekends to build offices that are ready to use. They assemble furniture, set up technology, configure meeting rooms, manage deliveries — all before any employee walks in. This invisible labour is essential to make modern office spaces look seamless, functional and welcoming. The Office Market Is Growing And Evolving The return to the office is now more than just a trend — it is a growing movement. Building and redesigning workspaces has become one of the fastest-growing parts of the property world in London. Companies are spending more on office design and user experience because choosing to come into an office should feel like a decision worth making, rather than a default. The spaces being built today reflect a deliberate effort to make work more human and connected. London’s New Work Culture — Not Old, But Different The new office era in London is not about going back to 2019. Many things have changed, and the city of offices is being reshaped — but with a fresh purpose. The goal is no longer merely to provide desk space, but to create environments that bring people together, encourage collaboration, and make work feel more meaningful. London is proving that offices can reinvent themselves when the world changes.

Perdue Farms, a 105-year-old fourth-generation family-owned food and agriculture company, continued its flurry of holiday initiatives this month with the return of two long-held community traditions to kick off a flurry of holiday initiatives this month. These events, alongside Perdue’s ongoing holiday giving efforts across the country, highlight the company’s long-standing commitment to support its neighbors. For the 40th year in a row, Perdue truck drivers decorated their rigs and rallied at the Holly Center in Salisbury, Maryland to deliver holiday cheer—and memorable rides—to residents with mental and physical disabilities. Known as Operation Teddy Bear, the initiative marks the official start to the holiday season for the Holly Center, a State of Maryland residential facility. With residents on board, a caravan of Perdue trucks takes an 11-mile loop in Wicomico County, providing a thrilling experience led by Perdue’s professional, safety-focused drivers. Operation Teddy Bear was inspired by the late country music artist Red Sovine’s 1976 song “Teddy Bear,” which tells the story of a CB radio conversation between a trucker and a disabled boy who wishes to ride in a rig after losing his father, a trucker. At the end of the song, the boy’s street is filled with rigs and drivers who heard the conversation over the radio and answered his call. Inspired by the song, two Perdue associates launched the Operation Teddy Bear program in 1985. Jim Perdue, Chairman of Perdue Farms said: “Operation Teddy Bear is led by our drivers and fuelled by their commitment and dedication to our values. We’re proud of the way they continue to show up for the Holly Centre, its residents, and our community.” Perdue Farms also recently marked the return of an annual event recognizing fallen heroes during the holiday season, in partnership with Wreaths Across America™. On Monday, December 8, Perdue Farms and its professional truck drivers held a public wreath-laying ceremony at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Centre. This event is part of Perdue’s broader holiday efforts to honour, remember, and support people across the communities where associates live and work. Perdue drivers presented seven ceremonial wreaths during the service. Next, they will deliver more than 25,000 wreaths to cemeteries from New York to Florida as part of National Wreaths Across America Day on Saturday, December 13. Kevin McAdams, CEO of Perdue Farms said: “Wreaths Across America asks us, in the midst of all the holiday activities, to remember our fallen military, including those from our community who are memorialized at the Wicomico War Veterans Memorial. This time of year, we also think of the thousands of people who are serving in the military and their families. Our drivers’ participation in Wreaths Across America encourages us all to share and show our respect.” Wreaths Across America™ was born in 2006 out of a desire to remember and honour American service members for their contributions in preserving our freedom. It has since become an annual tradition to lay wreaths at the grave-markers of our fallen veterans during December to pay tribute for their sacrifices. Perdue’s partnership with Wreaths Across America and ongoing Operation Teddy Bear program are part of our Delivering Hope to Our Neighbors® outreach to improve quality of life and build strong communities. Together, these efforts reflect Perdue’s belief that strong communities are built through service, compassion, and supporting our neighbours, especially during the holiday season.

Despite global economic headwinds, The Insights Group Limited delivered a robust performance in 2024/25. Figures filed at Companies House show turnover of £88.9M and operating profit of £12.3M. In addition to challenging trading conditions, profit performance reflected the Group’s decision to invest in innovative product extensions and new technology platforms. Over the past year, Insights has advanced its purpose-led strategy, investing in world-class “human-skills” learning experiences and technology-enabled solutions that empower individuals, teams, and leaders worldwide. Headquartered in Dundee, Scotland, and operating across 16 global offices, Insights Learning and Development partners with leading organisations such as Microsoft, Google and Expedia. Insights Discovery, our colourful personality model, is at the core of our work and continues to transform workplaces by fostering self-awareness and collaboration. Looking ahead, The Insights Group will continue to invest in its 18,000+ practitioner community, digital enabling technologies, and charitable initiatives through The Insights Foundation, spreading the Gift of Discovery to underprivileged communities worldwide. Andy Lothian, Chief Executive Officer, Insights Group “This has been a year of building for tomorrow. We chose to prioritise investment over short term gain—backing the innovation, platforms and product evolutions that will serve our customers for years to come. We continue to invest in our people so they can do their best work and to support and build our community worldwide." "The long term outcome is a stronger Insights, better able to deliver our purpose and to amplify our impact in the communities we serve both through our work and our ongoing support of the Insights Foundation.” Fiona Logan, Chief Executive Officer, Insights Learning and Development “These results demonstrate our close partnerships with our customers and are testimony to the sustained dedication and creativity of our people, and our Insights Discovery practitioners, whose efforts are central to delivering our purpose and business goals." “This year, we made a conscious and bold decision to invest in our future—channelling significant resources into our core offerings, innovation, technology, and our people. While our revenue and profit reflect the scale of this commitment, they also tell a story of transformation: we have laid the foundations for the next generation of our products, including pioneering work on Insights Discovery for Microsoft Teams, enabling APIs to the market, and the evolution of our core offerings." “We have launched our the ‘gift of time’ initiative alongside our gift of Discovery, encouraging our people and our practitioner community to deliver our purpose beyond the confines of their roles, and our focus on strategic capability building have empowered colleagues to learn, grow, and innovate. These investments are not just about today, but about equipping Insights for long-term success and resilience." “We knew this would be a year of transition, and I am proud of the intentional choices we have made. Our results reflect a period of building, investing in our next phase of growth, which will enable us to deliver even greater value to our customers and community in the years ahead.”   Insights Learning and Development recently launched Insights Discovery for Microsoft Teams as a digital complement to their flagship product, Insights Discovery. The Insights Group has also set ambitious carbon staff volunteering targets to drive meaningful change throughout the business and it’s wider community.

A storage company has put its support behind the Friends of Hamworthy Park charity – to help it keep the popular paddling pool open. Store & Secure, based in Hamworthy, has given the Friends a free unit to store its equipment. The charity fundraises so the council has enough money to maintain the pool and open it each year. The circular paddle-pool was opened in 1931 and is massively popular, but it costs £40,000 a year to run. The water requires testing three times a day and the infrastructure requires regular repairs. Malcom Swords from the Friends of Hamworthy Park said: “We are so grateful to Store & Secure. The unit enables us to store our fundraising and other equipment, saving us a great deal of money. It means we have more funds which we can use to look after the park and keep the pool open." “We work closely with the council - which has funding shortfalls – to ensure the pool can be opened for six-and-a-half weeks during the height of the holiday season. It costs around £40,000 a year to maintain it and without our fundraising it wouldn’t open." “People can donate through our website and there are QR codes around the pool. “There is also a café at the pool which is open every day except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.” Lucy Maidman, who runs Store & Secure with her ‘storage sister’ Sophie, said: “Hamworthy Park was where we spent our childhood. We were taken to the pool as children and we now take our children there. It is something generations of people have enjoyed and we are very pleased to play a small part in keeping it open.” The charity is looking for volunteers and for more information contact Malcolm Swords on MalcolmSwords@friendsofhamworthypark.co.uk Photo: Lucy Maidman, Malcolm Swords from Friends of Hamworthy park, Sophie Maidman, Kavan Wood

Generous JCB employees have delivered another record year for the company’s annual Christmas Toy Appeal – donating an amazing 1,787 gifts.   Donations poured into 15 different collection points across the company’s UK plants when the appeal was launched in November, beating last year’s total of 1,700 presents.  Now the bulk of the gifts have been handed over to Stoke-on-Trent charity the Hubb Foundation for distribution to families in the greatest need.   Hubb Foundation Operations Manager Tom Beecham said: “JCB’s Christmas Toy Appeal means so much to us as a charity and it means so much to the children and families we work with in Stoke-on-Trent. Christmas is a challenging time of year, so to bring some happiness and positivity to children at this time of year is wonderful. We can’t thank JCB and all the employees enough for their ongoing generosity.” The first batch of gifts was delivered to thrilled pupils at the New Ford Academy in Smallthorne, Stoke-on-Trent by JCB-sponsored athlete and Olympic silver medallist Adam Burgess and JCB apprentices Kitty Hulme, Lewis Durham, and Lucy Pepper.   Deputy Head Tracy Moller said: “It was wonderful to see the excitement on the children’s faces as the gifts were distributed. We would like to thank all the fabulous employees at JCB for their generous donations.” Since the appeal’s launch in 2022, employees have donated almost 6,000 gifts for distribution to children and young people. In Wrexham, gifts donated by JCB Transmissions’ employees are being given to the Salvation Army for local distribution. A number of gifts were also donated to Cheadle Primary School for distribution to families.   Helping to co-ordinate this year’s appeal were  JCB apprentices: Kitty Hulme, 20, of Newcastle under-Lyme , Lewis Durham, 20, of Derby , Lucy Pepper, 23, of Stoke-on-Trent , and Will Jenkins, 20, of Stone .

A Lake District resort is adding new lounge space, an outdoor balcony and extra treatment rooms to its 5-star status spa.   English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues is investing £500,000 in further development and extension of its facilities in its award winning spa at Low Wood Bay.   The centrepiece of the spa’s transformation will be the newly designed ‘Spa Lounge’, a luxurious, relaxing space for guests to unwind.   Developed in close collaboration with DV8 Designs, Mason Gillibrand Architects and Cubby Construction, the project also includes expanded facilities with 5 new treatment rooms and a balcony with scenic fellside views and access to the spa’s outdoor thermal facilities.   Product development manager at English Lakes Hotels Annabel Berry says: “The team has created a design plan for a serene and stylish environment that draws inspiration from the natural beauty of Windermere and its surrounding fells. The reimagined spa lounge will offer a tranquil and beautifully designed space where guests can relax before or after their treatments." “The spa lounge will open onto the Fell View balcony and outdoor thermal experiences, seamlessly connecting indoor comfort with panoramic Lakeland views. And our newly designed mask bar will invite guests to personalise their skincare experience by sampling a range of treatments tailored to different skin types.” Low Wood Bay was voted the best spa in North West England at the 2025 Good Spa Guide regional awards, having previously been the first spa in the region to attain the highest ‘Five Bubble Luxury’ rating. Earlier in 2025, upgraded spa facilities came on stream, including the Upper Deck with an 18 metre infinity relaxation pool, private seating, fire pits and loungers.   Group operations director at English Lakes Hotels Michael Kay adds: “Our new lounge space blends contemporary design with the beautiful scenery around the resort. It’s a carefully considered development that brings new dimensions of comfort and calm to our stunning spa." “This significant investment underlines our continued commitment to amazing guest experiences. We’re aiming to enhance our reputation as one of the Lake District’s premier destinations for luxury relaxation and holistic wellbeing.”   The project is scheduled for completion by the end of January.

More than 100 community-minded cyclists took part in a 12-hour superhero-themed spinathon in aid of mental health charity Dorset Mind. Held at the West Hants Club in Bournemouth and supported by care home provider Colten Care, AFC Bournemouth Ladies and Team Mind BMX, the indoor static bike marathon raised around £5,000. It was the fourth year the event has been held, with participants booking one or more 25-minute individual slots to do their bit on the pedals in return for a donation. The superhero theme prompted a range of costumes. While instructors Cat and Clare dressed as Wonder Woman and Cat Woman respectively to host a spin studio with classes for the whole day, Colten Care’s Director of Marketing Barney Baxendale cycled for three and a half hours as Bananaman. Barney, a mental health first-aider and Colten Care’s staff welfare lead, said: “The energy and community spirit was amazing. It was an inspiring day from start to finish. To see so many people come together - riding, cheering, supporting one another - was a powerful reminder of the strength and generosity of our local community." “Cat and Clare were extraordinary. Spinning continuously for twelve hours takes not just physical stamina, but real commitment and heart, and they carried the day with such positivity and purpose. Colten Care is proud to have supported an event that raises both vital funds and wider awareness for Dorset Mind.” The spinning was done against a soundtrack that featured 90s girl bands, Ibiza rave and superhero movie themes. West Hants Club members were among those taking part. Chief Executive Peter Elviss said: “The spinathon brought a brilliant atmosphere to the club. Members, friends and staff showed up ready to ride, cheer and pitch in, and the sense of community was clear from the moment Cat and Clare started.” AFC Bournemouth Ladies’ Head Coach Helen Bleazard, and four players, took to the saddle too. Helen, who has participated in all the spinathons so far, said: “It’s such a great occasion. I’m always in awe of how Cat and Clare manage to complete such a monumental challenge. Congratulations to them again and for raising such a great amount for the charity. Hopefully they’ll have the strength to do another one next year.” Among the members of Team Mind BMX who took part were John Twitchen, Vice-Chairman, British Champion Lee Hunt and three elite juniors. John said: "Team Mind is all about bikes and mental health, and so the spinathon is the perfect event to promote the benefits of physical exercise and fun with friends as a way of helping people look after their mental health. With the funds raised going to our own first choice charity, it's a must for us to support this event. Massive well done to the West Hants crew.” Linda O’Sullivan, Chief Executive of Dorset Mind, said: “Another epic achievement from Cat, Clare and everyone at West Hants – 12 hours on a bike, it makes me feel weak at the knees just thinking about it. We hear firsthand what a difference our support makes to people across Dorset, and these vital funds will help us reach more people. We couldn’t be more grateful for this amazing achievement.” Donations can still be made at West Hants Spinathon - JustGiving

There’s a new must-visit spot on the block in Cartmel. The Pig & Whistle has re-opened its doors this week following an incredible eight-week transformation. The quaint stone fronted pub which was taken over by hospitality duo Dean and Steph in 2024 is now unrecognisable. Retaining its original cosy village character, the pub is brighter, more spacious and a true complement to Cartmel. With brand new log burners, beautiful bar and restaurant areas and decor which couldn’t be more suited to the pub. From horse racing memorabilia, such as local jockey Jimmy Moffatt’s old racing silks, to artwork sourced from Barrow archives, it’s all in the detail. Standing up proud in Cartmel’s foodie scene, the menu at the Pig doesn’t go amiss either. There are tasty small plates alongside pub classics, gourmet burgers and some sharing plates too. Course, no pub is complete without a great range of drinks, and they’ve got that covered too. From cask ales such as ‘Cartmel’s Galloper’s Gold’ and rotational craft beers, to over 16 cocktails, mocktails, and a secret menu (if you can find it!). The team behind the new look pub have firmly established themselves in the Cartmel community. Reflecting on the opening day, Robinsons Pub Partner, Dean Richardson said, "On the day of reopening, we were opening the pub at 4pm, at 3.50pm there was a queue down the street of people waiting to come and have a drink and see the venue. The support from other local businesses has just been amazing too. From gifts, to opening night burritos, it’s just been amazing to feel the support from our local community. And we’re delighted to be re-open, and hear the incredible feedback." Throughout the time the pub was closed, the locals of the Pig and Whistle didn’t go without, they rallied the troops and headed over to the The Westmorland, Dean’s brother’s pub in Bowness. What community spirit! The team at the Pig and Whistle have got a busy jam-packed December planned, from Christmas Markets on the 13th and 14th December, to their community Curry Club and board game nights. It’s all about gatherings! You can find out more on their website. Food is served at the Pig and Whistle every Wednesday – Sunday and you can book here online. You can choose from the bustling atmosphere of the bar area, or the relaxing dining area.

Yorkshire-based manufacturer Power Plastics Limited is proud to announce their Chairman has been recognised as one of Britain’s Great 100, a national honour celebrating the people who are backing Britain and championing UK manufacturing and engineering. Launched by the Made in Group, the Great 100 recognises individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and commitment to strengthening British industry. Honourees are selected for exemplifying the core values shaping the future of UK manufacturing — including industry advocacy, sustainability, investing in the next generation, supply-chain excellence and resilience. As part of this year’s Great 100, Simon Price has been acknowledged for championing and advocating for British industry, one of the Made in Group’s key criteria. Over the past eighteen months, as UK SMEs have faced significant challenges, Simon has worked tirelessly to ensure the voice of manufacturing is heard in Westminster. His efforts have included direct engagement with Government and Shadow Ministers, hosting local MPs at Power Plastics’ facilities across Yorkshire and collaborating with industry bodies including Made in Yorkshire, Family Business United and Make UK Defence. Through this work, he has played a key role in amplifying the Backing Britain message. Simon Price, Chairman of Power Plastics Limited commented: “We are grateful for organisations such as the Made in Group, who not only provide a platform for SMEs to network and share best practice, but also offer a route for constructive dialogue with those who govern. This recognition highlights the importance for business leaders continuing to speak up for our industries.” Andy Beetles, Managing Director commented: “We are delighted to see Simon recognised among Britain’s Great 100. His contribution and commitment to the values of Backing Britain reflect the principles we’re proud to uphold at Power Plastics”. About The Great 100: The Great 100 celebrates individuals who are shaping the future of UK industry — from innovators and mentors to sustainability champions and advocates for British manufacturing. Honourees are recognised at a special celebration in London following the Made in Group’s Westminster Parliamentary Reception, where manufacturers and policymakers come together to discuss the future of British industry. About Power Plastics: Power Plastics is a UK based fabric and structural engineering company specialising in the design, manufacture, assembly and onsite installation of cover solutions, comprising of fabric and structural metalwork for a wide variety of industries. Operating internationally, Power Plastics has a reputation around the world for innovation and the quality of product and service we provide.

In the world of family‑owned businesses, the most successful enterprises are those that find harmony between two often competing priorities: the immediate demands of today and the legacy they hope to build for tomorrow. This balance is not easy, it requires steady hands, clear values and the kind of leadership that can think generations ahead, even when short-term pressures scream for quick fixes. According to Paul Andrews, Founder & CEO of Family Business United, this balancing act lies at the heart of what makes family firms not just resilient but enduring. “Whereas many corporations chase short‑term performance and profits, often making decisions based on financial returns,” Paul notes, “family businesses tend to prioritise legacy, ensuring that decisions today strengthen the business for the next generation.” In that simple but powerful statement lies the fundamental distinction: family firms are often driven not by quarterly earnings, but by what the business will look like for their children or grandchildren. That long‑term view tends to shape investment decisions, whether in innovation, people, or community commitment, in ways that transcend the next accounting period. Yet it would be naive to dismiss the short-term demands. In recent times, family businesses in the UK have felt mounting pressure from economic headwinds: inflation, regulatory change, taxation, rising costs, and uncertainty in the broader commercial environment. When survival, cash‑flow and profitability are on the line, there is a natural inclination to focus on the near term. These are not luxury firms sheltered by wealth: many are everyday businesses providing livelihoods, goods and services to communities. In this context, the temptation to react quickly, to cut costs, defer investment, or delay strategic decisions, is real. But according to Paul, reacting without strategy risks eroding what makes family firms strong in the first place. “The strength of family businesses lies in their values, resilience, and commitment to doing business the right way,” he argues, pointing out that such qualities can sustain firms through bad times but only if they are supported by wise judgement and long-term thinking. For him, short‑term pressures should not rewrite the firm’s purpose, but merely test its ability to uphold that purpose under pressure. That 'long-term thinking' is more than sentimental rhetoric. It underpins a discipline of patient capital, investments in people, culture, innovation and community, rather than chasing short‑lived gains. As noted by many in the family business sector, firms that maintain this strategic balance are often better placed to navigate disruption, retain staff loyalty, and sustain growth in a way that builds generational value rather than short-term profit. Of course, maintaining such a balance requires more than conviction: it calls for robust governance, transparent communication, and a shared vision among family members and management. Family firms must resist the lure of compromising long‑term ambition for short‑term expediency, especially when external pressures mount. By retaining clarity on their values and their purpose, they ensure that decisions made in the present remain aligned with their future goals. For Andrews, the message is clear: genuine stewardship means thinking beyond the next quarter or even the next decade. “Family businesses are humble by nature,” he says, “They’re more focused on getting the job done than shouting about it. But humility does not mean short‑sightedness — quite the opposite. It demands a confident commitment to the long game, even when times are tough." “The beauty of family businesses is that when they get the balance right, they create something truly remarkable, not just a thriving company, but a legacy that inspires future generations." "That is a responsibility and a privilege that few other businesses get to enjoy.” In an age where short-termism too often dominates corporate thinking, family businesses stand out as a model of sustainable enterprise. They remind us that companies can, and should, have both heart and horizon. And for those willing to marry family values with strategic discipline, the rewards may well be measured not only in profit, but in legacy too.

There is something quietly enchanting about a family business. Unlike impersonal corporations or online conglomerates, these family businesses carry with them stories, values, and traditions that span generations. Walk down any high street in Britain, and the magic is palpable in the small, independent shops, the bakeries that have been handed from parent to child, the artisanal workshops where craft and care are inseparable, and the family businesses that have stood the test of time, passing from generation to generation. Family businesses offer more than products, they offer continuity, trust, and a sense of belonging that cannot be bought. At the heart of this magic is the weaving together of family and work. For many family-run enterprises, the lines between home and business blur, creating a unique environment where dedication is personal, and success is shared. Children often grow up behind the counter, learning not just how to serve customers but how to embody the values of diligence, honesty, and respect. Skills are passed down alongside stories, recipes, and techniques, making the business itself a living extension of the family’s history. As Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United explains, "Every transaction, every interaction carries a human touch that reminds customers they are dealing with people, not just a brand." "This is what makes family businesses special. They care and want to do business authentically." Family businesses also have a remarkable ability to nurture community. Unlike large organisations, these firms often invest in relationships rather than just revenue. Shopkeepers remember regular customers’ names, bakers know their patrons’ favourite pastries, and artisans create bespoke products to meet individual needs. In towns and villages across the UK, family businesses are pillars of social life, sponsoring local events, supporting schools, and helping neighbours in ways that money cannot measure. As Paul continues, "The magic lies in this human connection, the sense that business can be kind, personal, and socially meaningful." The resilience of family businesses is another source of their enchantment. Generations of families have weathered economic storms, shifts in taste, and technological change, often relying on ingenuity and mutual support rather than scale or capital alone. This endurance gives them a depth and stability that is rare in modern commerce. Customers are not just buying a product; they are buying into decades of experience, a commitment to quality, and a tangible sense of continuity that spans time and circumstance. "It is the story that perhaps resonates the most," continues Paul. "People trust the name above the door, the business that has always been around and continues to be a constant present in every day lives." "These businesses become part of the fabric of the community and that is what makes them special." Perhaps the most captivating aspect of family businesses is the way they embody values in action. Integrity, care, generosity, and stewardship are not abstract concepts; they are lived daily in the way products are made, customers are treated, and staff are valued. During festive seasons or times of community need, family businesses often go above and beyond, reinforcing the idea that business can serve a higher purpose than profit alone. It is in these gestures, large and small, that their magic truly shines. In a world increasingly dominated by impersonal chains and rapid convenience, family businesses remind us of what commerce can aspire to be. They are storytellers, tradition-keepers, and community-builders rolled into one. Their magic is subtle but undeniable: it lives in the smile of a familiar shopkeeper, the aroma of a freshly baked loaf, the precision of a handcrafted product, and the legacy carried forward from one generation to the next. Family businesses are not just part of the economy; they are part of the fabric of life, weaving warmth, trust, and humanity into the everyday.