A luxury garden specialist has enjoyed a 30 per cent rise in sales this summer as a series of heatwaves and soaring temperatures across the UK have encouraged homeowners to embrace their gardens like never before. Crown Pavilions is celebrating one of its strongest summers to date as people continue to invest in their gardens and create outdoor spaces designed for entertaining and relaxing throughout the year. With forecasters warning that hotter summers and more frequent periods of extreme heat could become increasingly common, the company believes the appetite for comfortable, versatile outdoor spaces is likely to continue long after this summer's temperatures fall. Unsurprisingly, air-conditioning is top of the extras’ list, with smart thermostats enabling homeowners to manage the heat from afar. Luke Dejahang, Co-Founder of Crown Pavilions, said the strong performance reflects both the exceptional weather and a much wider shift in the way people view their gardens. “It's been an incredible summer for outdoor living, and we're seeing that reflected in the demand for our products, including gazebos and garden rooms,” said Luke. “Sales are up just over 30 per cent, which is a fantastic result, but what is particularly exciting is what that tells us about the way people are thinking about their gardens." “People aren't simply buying something to sit under on a sunny afternoon anymore. They're creating spaces where they can entertain friends, work, exercise, cook, relax and spend meaningful time with their families." “After a summer of heatwaves, people have really seen the value of having somewhere comfortable to enjoy their gardens without being exposed to the full intensity of the sun. And if hotter summers are going to become more common, that is only going to become more important.” Luke said attendance at shows across the UK had also boosted sales, with niche events such as New Forest and Hampshire as successful as the big RHS events. Now he’s investing in his Oxfordshire workshop to ensure his craftsmen can cope with the demand. “We know this summer has been exceptional but all the forecasts predict this won’t be a one-off, and so I’m ensuring our team is ready with new products, machines and innovations to seize on this sales spike." “One of our biggest strengths as a family company with our own manufacturing site is our ability to respond to the trends in the market, so we’re excited about the future.” Once considered an occasional space for a barbecue or a few hours in the sunshine, gardens are increasingly being treated as an extension of the home, with bespoke pavilions, garden rooms and outdoor entertaining spaces becoming destinations in their own right. Luke said: “We believe this is much more than a short-term summer trend. People have invested heavily in their homes and outdoor spaces over recent years and are now thinking about how they can get even more from them." “While air-conditioning has been top of the extras list for the summer, we also know that customers want instant heating to enable them to maximise their space in the winter. They want year-round enjoyment.” The company's show season has already delivered an impressive collection of industry recognition, including Four Star Tradestand Awards at both RHS Badminton and RHS Sandringham, following a Five Star Tradestand Award at RHS Malvern Spring Festival, Best General Trade Exhibit at the South of England Show and Highly Commended at Hertfordshire County Show. For Crown Pavilions, the shows have provided an opportunity to showcase not only its craftsmanship but also a new generation of products and features designed around the changing way people use their gardens. Among the latest innovations is the company's Smokeless BBQ Collection, which combines Crown Pavilions' handcrafted timber structures with integrated smokeless grilling technology. Designed as a social dining environment, the collection allows homeowners to cook and entertain outdoors while reducing smoke and extending the barbecue season beyond the traditional summer months. Luke said: “We've had an amazing response at the shows this summer, from RHS Badminton and the Great Yorkshire Show through to RHS Sandringham and the New Forest & Hampshire County Show. People are genuinely excited about their gardens, our products and the possibilities they offer.” Recent research by Oxfordshire-based Crown Pavilions, which has show sites in London, Surrey, Essex, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Cheshire, has highlighted just how dramatically garden use has changed. The company found that garden rooms are increasingly being transformed into workspaces, hobby hubs, private retreats and spaces for teenage or adult children, while the average amount invested in a garden room has risen significantly as homeowners opt for larger, better-equipped spaces designed for year-round living. The company has also seen the average garden room increase in size over the past decade, while features such as triple glazing, air conditioning, kitchen appliances and bars have become increasingly popular. “People are becoming much more imaginative about what their outdoor space can be,” Luke added. “It's no longer about simply making the garden look beautiful; it's about making it useful, comfortable, and somewhere you genuinely want to be." “Whether that's a spectacular pavilion for entertaining, a garden room for working or a dedicated space for cooking and relaxing, we're seeing people invest in creating something that adds to the way they live.”

Family Business United (FBU), the UK's independent media, membership and advocacy platform for the family business community, has confirmed that National Family Business Day 2027 will be celebrated on Tuesday 16 September. The annual day recognises the vital contribution family businesses make to the UK economy, from the smallest independent traders to the largest multigenerational enterprises, and provides an opportunity for families in business, their employees and the wider community to celebrate their achievements. Family businesses represent the backbone of the UK economy, generating significant turnover and employing millions of people across every sector and region. National Family Business Day offers a moment to pause and reflect on their resilience, values and long term thinking. Commenting on the announcement, Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United, said: "National Family Business Day is one of the highlights of our calendar. It is a chance to shine a spotlight on the families who pour their heart, history and hard work into building businesses that last for generations. Setting the date for 2027 early gives family businesses across the country plenty of time to plan their own celebrations, share their stories and mark the occasion in a way that means something to them." FBU will be releasing further details on how businesses can get involved in the lead up to the day, including resources, events and ways to share their stories.

Swansway Motor Group is celebrating 23 years in business this September, marking more than two decades of growth, diversification and change across the UK automotive retail sector. Founded by Chairman Michael Smyth in 2003, Swansway began when the Smyth family acquired LC Charles Ltd, bringing Audi, SEAT and Volkswagen dealerships into the newly formed Group. Since then, the business has grown into a multi brand automotive group with more than 30 rooftops across the North West, Midlands and North Wales. Swansway represents 10 automotive brands across its retail network, alongside its Fleet division and used car business, Motor Match. The Group also operates an accident repair centre and five TPS (Trades Parts Specialists) Centres, supporting both retail and trade customers. The family owned business now employs around 1,200 people and generated £1.1 billion in turnover in 2025, demonstrating the scale of the Group’s growth since its formation in 2003. That growth has taken place against a rapidly changing automotive landscape. Over the past 23 years, Swansway has expanded its manufacturer portfolio, invested in new and refurbished facilities, launched Motor Match, developed its Fleet operation and embraced the transition towards electrification. The Group has also continued to add new automotive brands, including BYD and OMODA JAECOO in recent years. Five of Swansway’s current dealerships, Crewe Audi, Crewe SEAT, Crewe Volkswagen, Stafford Audi and Stoke Audi, are also celebrating 23 years with the Group this September, having been part of Swansway since the beginning. Despite the scale of its growth, Swansway says its approach to customers and its family values remain at the heart of the business. David Smyth, Director at Swansway Motor Group, said: “We’re proud to be celebrating 23 years as a family run business. When you look at how much Swansway has grown since 2003, it’s a huge achievement, but what makes us most proud is the people who’ve helped us get here.” David added: “The automotive industry has changed enormously over the past 23 years and we’ve had to change with it, whether that’s through new brands, new technologies or changing customer expectations. What hasn’t changed is our focus on looking after our people and our customers properly." “We’ve never lost sight of our family values and they’ll continue to guide us as we look to the future.” As Swansway enters its 24th year, the Group says it will continue to invest in its people, customer experience and the communities it serves, while evolving alongside the automotive industry. Photo: (L-R: Peter Smyth and David Smyth, Directors at Swansway Motor Group)

Award winning accountancy firm Lamont Pridmore has highlighted effective planning as a tool to combat financial uncertainty. While business success rarely relies on luck, many SMEs underestimate how important planning can be to aid long term growth. For a business to be successful and profitable, the value of planning is often understated, especially amidst current economic uncertainty and rising costs. Graham Lamont, Chief Executive of Lamont Pridmore, is looking to raise awareness of business planning as a buffer against economic uncertainty. Graham said: “Planning gives SMEs direction because they know where they are going, what they want to accomplish and how they intend to compete in a marketplace.” He highlighted five areas SMEs should cast their attention: cash flow, tax efficiency, workforce development, operational resilience and succession planning. Partner and Managing Director, Chris Lamont, agreed: “Businesses cannot plan for the future if their cash is due to run out next week. Creating a cash flow and profit model is the absolute priority because it acts as an early warning system for crises. This means what-if scenarios can be simulated to help businesses prepare for economic downturns.” A large part of keeping cash flow healthy is unlocking cash tied up in inefficient tax plans. Chris warned: “You might have a lot of cash available, but you’ll never be able to access it if you don’t use your capital allowances, optimise your income structures or effectively plan your expenses throughout the tax year.” He shifted his attention towards areas businesses should prioritise once their cash flow plans are in place. Chris explained: “Planning to develop the team of people around you mean staff can handle multiple roles, so businesses can weather sudden labour shortages and budget constraints.” “Well-trained employees are more efficient and more likely to stick around, so you can boost productivity and reduce the money being spent on ongoing recruitment.” Once businesses have established efficient operations, they should then look to remain resilient and push for growth. Using the cash flow modelling your business has in place, steps can be taken to identify whether your business is overly reliant on a small number of clients. Graham said: “Having a resilient client base can allow you to plan for innovation, such as launching targeted products and services that solve specific clients’ problems.” An important aspect of business planning that is often overlooked is the creation of succession and personal retirement plans. Succession and retirement plans, according to Graham, help to “protect personal wealth if a business was to fail, while making sure your company survives if you were to walk away.” “Planning ways to extract profits into retirement funds and training successors who might someday take the reins of your business can help secure your financial future.” He concluded by urging business owners to get in touch with one of Lamont Pridmore’s experts to start planning for long-term success. “If you want to strengthen your business against uncertainty, contact Lamont Pridmore for expert planning and tax advice.”

Wholesale Domestic is delighted to announce the promotion of Anne Scullion to Head of Commercial. Anne joined Wholesale Domestic in December 2020, during the depths of the pandemic, starting out as Marketing Manager. She was promoted to Senior Brand and Marketing Manager in May 2024, and has now stepped up to Head of Commercial as of July 2026 - a reflection of the impact she's had across the business over the past six years. Anne has been instrumental in shaping the company's growth journey, playing a pivotal role across Sales, Marketing and Brand. In her new position, she will also take responsibility for Ecommerce, bringing together all of the business's customer-facing areas under one commercial function – Sales, Marketing, Brand, Ecommerce and its showrooms across Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen. The appointment reflects Wholesale Domestic's continued ambition to evolve, strengthen collaboration across the business and deliver an even better customer experience. Commenting on her new role, Anne said: "I'm looking forward to leading Commercial across Wholesale Domestic Bathrooms and Top Radiators, with a clear focus on growth. Customers don't think in channel, whether they're browsing online, visiting a showroom, or speaking to our team, it's all part of one overall customer experience and journey." "Getting that omnichannel experience right, so it feels genuinely joined-up at every step, will be central to how we grow. We've got a fantastic product range and a team that already delivers real value and inspiration for customers, and I'm looking forward to connecting that more tightly with our digital experience and building on it from here." From the first online interaction, to visiting one of its showrooms, to completing a bathroom transformation, Anne's leadership will help ensure a consistent and exceptional experience at every touchpoint. With more than 60 years of experience behind the business, Anne's new role will be instrumental in building on Wholesale Domestic's strong foundations and supporting its continued growth into the future.

When you are writing a book about family businesses, you quickly come up against some of the myths and stereotypes surrounding them. First, their importance to the UK economy. Those involved in family businesses would be aware of the frequently used figures – that there are more than five million family firms in Britain, employing 15 million people between them. But the wider public would be surprised by these figures, astonished, even. Perhaps the gap in understanding is because many family companies are small, so their collective importance is not fully appreciated. Secondly, performance. Family businesses in this country are still regarded by some as a sleepy backwater, slow to change and sometimes even resistant to it. In some cases, this would be accurate. But there is plenty of research available which demonstrates that, over the long-run, family companies perform just as well as their non-family counterparts, and sometimes better. A further point about performance is that family firms frequently have a broader definition of success beyond purely financial measures. They want to make a profit, but not at any cost. They want to grow, but not too fast, and not too much, because they don’t want to jeopardise the business. What’s important to them is continuity, maintaining the businesses so it can be passed on to the next generation. This drives a different set of priorities, for which family businesses rarely get any credit. I set about challenging some of these misconceptions in my new book, The Great Survivors. I looked at a dozen of Britain’s oldest family businesses and examined the reasons for their long-standing success. After all, if a company has lasted for 100-200 years or more, they must be doing something right. The aim is to draw out the common denominators. The companies featured include RJ Balson, the Dorset butcher which was first established as a market stall in 1515. There is also Hoare’s Bank, Lock & Co, the London hat shop, and well-known consumer brands such as Barbour, the clothing company, and Walker’s Shortbread. I visited each of the businesses, spending time with family members and other employees. What are the common themes? Perhaps the biggest attribute these great survivors share is that they think long-term, often inter-generationally. As part of this, they often take a cautious approach to their finances; they avoid debt and own freehold property. They usually avoid the stock market too. Many of these choices are about maintaining control. My research also showed that these long-established family firms also tend to have a strong set of values. They play an important role in their local communities because they have been operating in their town or village for so long, and being a good employer is important to them. They also professionalise their structures, bringing in outside expertise in the boardroom or as advisers. One of the biggest myths about family companies is that they are set in their ways. In fact, innovation and adaptability are one of the common attributes of the firms in the book. Take Barbour. Over the last 20 years Barbour has transformed itself from a somewhat conservative maker of waxed jackets, into an international fashion business that is arguably more successful now than it has ever been. Berry Bros & Rudd, the wine merchant founded in 1698, has overseen dramatic change in recent years. It has created two storeys of event space under its London premises, opened a new spirits shop, bought a wine making business and taken a stake in a spirits firm. As one of its directors told me: “We want to have the mindset of a 300 year-old start-up.” But if we are to see a re-appraisal of family businesses in this country, some things will need to change. It’s true that the government could do more to understand this under-appreciated part of our economy. The media could do more to report on family firms. Universities and business schools could do more research into this area rather than concentrating on larger corporates or entrepreneurship. But family businesses could do more too. The community needs more leaders who are prepared to step forward and speak about the way they operate their companies. That would help inform media coverage and send an important message to government. As it stands, too many family businesses stand in the shadows. There is lots of talk about economic growth in the UK at the moment. Our new Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, says he wants growth in every post code. Well, family businesses are in every post code. If we are looking for economic growth that is underpinned by a strong set of values, Britain’s family businesses would be a good place to start. Now is the time to make their voices heard. About the Author - The Great Survivors: Can Britain’s oldest family businesses show us a new way forward? by Nigel Cope (Eye Books, £20) Find out more and order a copy here

Beer lovers are being invited to explore some of the South West's most-loved pubs as a new ale trail launches across more than 150 venues to mark the start of Cask Ale Week 2026. The Tribute Ale Trail, launched by St Austell Brewery to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its flagship pale ale, rewards participants for exploring pubs across Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset, with prizes ranging from free pints to a complimentary overnight stay. From cosy village locals and coastal inns to countryside favourites, pub-goers can enjoy one of the region's best-loved cask ales while collecting rewards and visiting new destinations along the way. Trail maps are available from any participating pub. Purchase a pint of Tribute to receive that venue's exclusive location sticker, with only one sticker available per pub. To progress through the trail, participants must visit different venues across the region. The more pubs visited, the bigger the rewards: Collect stickers from 10 different participating pubs and receive a free pint of Tribute Visit 50 different pubs and earn a £50 St Austell Brewery voucher Reach 100 different pubs and receive a further £50 voucher Complete the entire trail by visiting all participating pubs and win a one-night stay at a St Austell Brewery managed house worth £200 It's the first ale trail to span St Austell Brewery's pub estate in more than a decade, encouraging people to explore the region, support local pubs and celebrate its thriving cask ale culture. The trail launches during a landmark year for both Tribute, which turns 25, and St Austell Brewery, which is celebrating its 175th anniversary. To mark the occasion, a special commemorative Tribute glass has also been created, showcasing the beer's heritage, quality ingredients and the people behind its success. Georgina Young, Brewing Director at St Austell Brewery, said: "The South West is home to some of Britain's best pubs, so we wanted to create something that gives people a reason to get out and experience more of them." "The Tribute Trail is part pub adventure, part celebration of cask ale and a chance to support the brilliant pubs and communities that make this region so special. Whether you're aiming for 10 pubs or all 150-plus, it's a great excuse to explore somewhere new, find a new favourite pub and enjoy a pint along the way." Tribute began life as an experimental brew created by former Head Brewer Roger Ryman to mark the solar eclipse of 1999 before becoming a permanent beer in St Austell Brewery's portfolio in 2001. It is one of Britain's best-known cask ales and remains closely associated with the South West. Over the years, the brand has supported a number of sporting organisations across the region, including Cornwall County Cricket Club, Cornish Pirates and Bath Rugby, and is currently the official beer partner of Plymouth Argyle. To find out more visit here.

A major new report from professional services firm Deloitte has found that most Scottish workers are now using GenAI at work, with those who have adopted it making clear productivity gains. However, while Scottish adoption and usage is broadly in line with the rest of the UK, a clear gap with London remains. The findings come from Deloitte UK’s inaugural GenAI Workforce Survey, the largest study of workplace GenAI use conducted in a single country. Based on responses from 25,000 workers across the UK, collated between 7th May and 10th June 2026, the research reveals how employees are really using GenAI* in their jobs and how organisations are responding. The survey will be repeated every six months to monitor how usage evolves as the technology becomes more widely adopted. Adoption trails London, but Scotland is no outlier Almost six in 10 Scottish workers (58%) have used a GenAI tool for work, compared with 76% in Greater London. Scotland sits slightly below the 61% average across the UK outside the capital, however. In Scotland, 36% of respondents said they use GenAI at least weekly (compared to 55% of those in London), while 21% said they used it at least daily (with London sitting at 37%). Over seven in ten (71%) of Scottish GenAI users say that they use AI tools that they have permission to use. However. one in five Scottish (21%) said that they use tools at work without their employer’s knowledge, believing they would approve, while a further 9% do so believing they would not, indicating around three in ten don’t have explicit employer permission. Sentiment is broadly positive across the country. Over a third (37%) said that they see their use of GenAI for work as a positive, against 23% that see it negatively. A quarter (26%) remain neutral. A fifth (22%) of Scottish GenAI users said that their work is more enjoyable because they’re using it, against 8% that said it is less enjoyable. The majority, 63%, said that enjoyment levels remain the same. Time saved, but not yet transformation Just under half of Scottish GenAI users (49%) say the tools save them time. Of those, almost six in 10 (59%) save up to three hours a week and almost one in ten (9%) save more than 10 hours. That time is coming from routine tasks rather than complex work. Scottish users most commonly turn to GenAI for looking up information (42%), writing or editing emails (41%), summarising documents (32%) and fact-checking (31%). Almost three in ten (28%) of Scottish GenAI users said they complete ‘some’ of their work by using GenAI. A tenth (12%) said they complete ‘most of it’ by using the technology. However, 22% said that they complete ‘hardly any / none of it’ with GenAI. Training: an opportunity to boost usage and impact Fewer than three in ten Scottish employees (29%) have received formal GenAI training, against 47% in London and 33% across the UK. Where it has been given, it is valued, with eight in ten (81%) Scottish recipients rating it as helpful. A quarter (25%) of Scottish respondents said that training on how to evaluate/fact-check GenAI would be helpful. A fifth (20%) want more GenAI skills training at an advanced level, 21% would like more cybersecurity training specific to AI. A third of Scottish employees (32%) said their employer has a GenAI policy, the same amount (32%) that said their employer does not, 36% do not know, or aren’t sure whether one exists. A lack of trust remains in Scotland More than half of Scottish workers (51%) are concerned about the misuse of personal data, a third (34%) cite bias or discrimination in AI outputs, and 26% worry that managers will overestimate what AI can achieve. Additionally, nearly six in ten Scottish workers (56%) worry that essential workplace skills will suffer because of generative AI, slightly ahead of the UK figure of 55%. Turning to leadership, 22% of workers say leaders at their organisation talk about GenAI and have a good understanding of it, while 29% say leaders do not talk about it at all. Angela Mitchell, practice senior partner at Deloitte Scotland, said: “Scotland is embracing technological change, supported by a skilled workforce and world-class universities. Our survey points to where businesses can go further to better support their people in harnessing GenAI to deliver lasting productivity gains and economic growth." “Adoption rates across Scotland are strong, and workers want to learn about the technology, and understand how to use it in a responsible and impactful way. Firms across the country have an opportunity to build genuine workforce capability that moves beyond providing access to tools and focuses instead on capability, confidence and trust. Doing so will enable employees to spend more of their time on the activities that create value for firms, customers and the wider economy." Nationally, the survey found that British workers are spending close to £1 billion a year from their own pockets on GenAI tools they use for work, with Deloitte estimating annual personal spend at £958 million. One in six (17%) UK GenAI users pay for at least one tool themselves. In Scotland that figure is 14%, against 24% in London, while 46% of Scottish users rely on free tools. *In this press release, GenAI refers to generative artificial intelligence: AI tools, including chatbots, that can generate content such as text, images, video and audio in response to user prompts.

Green-fingered allotmenteers in the north of Glasgow will soon have a new central space to come together, thanks to improvements planned at Hamiltonhill Allotments. Since the 1920s, Hamiltonhill Allotments has been a welcoming space where local people can grow their own food and connect with their neighbours through shared gardening. These days the Hamiltonhill Allotment Association operates as a not-for-profit, volunteer-led organisation. It aims to promote environmentally responsible growing practices, provide access to fresh produce, improve physical and mental wellbeing, and help people find social connections and a sense of belonging. The allotments are made up of over 40 plots and 10 raised beds, providing growing space for over 60 members and their families, a local Afghan community group and an autism group. Members also benefit from a range of shared facilities on site, including a kitchen, polytunnel, orchard, wildlife garden and pond. Everything is set up to support learning, biodiversity, volunteering and seasonal activities which take place throughout the year. After speaking with their members, Hamiltonhill Allotment Association is now planning to improve the communal shelter and tool storage at the site. The project will provide a much-needed functional focal point where the allotment community can meet, hold seasonal gatherings and shelter from the weather throughout the year. Repairs will also be made to the facility used to house gardening equipment, and a notice board will be installed to help members to stay informed and support greater participation in communal activities. The has all been made possible thanks to a £1,088 donation from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust. Kyle Taggart, Secretary of the Hamiltonhill Allotment Association Committee, said: “This support from Allied Vehicles will have a huge impact on our allotment community. It will allow us to deliver a new, much-needed, outdoor space where we can get together and hold allotment events throughout the year." "It will also help us make repairs to a vital storage container where we keep our gardening equipment, so that it will last for years to come.” David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles, said: “Hamiltonhill Allotment Association provides a fantastic space for local people to come together, learn new skills and enjoy the benefits of gardening. We are delighted that this funding will help create a new central area for members while also improving facilities on site. The allotments have served local people for over 100 years, and it our hope that these improvements allow it do so for many, many more.” The improvements will strengthen the allotment and its facilities and will help community members come together to continue growing and connecting with nature, and each other, for a long time to come no matter what Glasgow's weather throws at them.

UK manufacturers remain confident about their future prospects, despite rising energy costs and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty. Barclays Business Prosperity Index research among manufacturing leaders shows businesses are responding by investing in automation, taking a longer-term approach to planning and pursuing opportunities across defence, national security and critical infrastructure. Barclays’ anonymised client data from around 30,000 UK manufacturing businesses, comparing Q2 2026 to Q2 2025, shows a growing divergence between larger manufacturers and SMEs. Among larger manufacturers served by Barclays UK Corporate Bank, cash inflows fell 3.5 per cent year-on-year, while loan balances increased by 12.8 per cent. This suggests businesses are continuing to invest despite softer trading conditions In contrast, SME manufacturers served by Barclays Business Banking, recorded a 1.4 per cent increase in cash inflows. However, average loan balances fell by 17.7 per cent, despite the number of loans increasing by 1.1 per cent, while savings balances also rose by 1.1 per cent, suggesting smaller firms are prioritising financial flexibility Manufacturers remain confident and plan further ahead in response to uncertainty The vast majority of manufacturers surveyed (94 per cent) expect their business to prosper over the next 12 months, even as almost nine in 10 (89 per cent) say energy costs are constraining growth or investment to some extent. This confidence is supporting a longer-term approach to decision-making, with over three quarters (76 per cent) planning major investment, sourcing and supply-chain decisions further ahead than they were a year ago. The research shows that manufacturers expect to increase spending by an average of 32 per cent over the next 12 months, while two thirds (66 per cent) have borrowed to fund investment over the past year. Automation and storage transition drives resilience and investment Automation of robotics is becoming a key resilience tool for UK manufacturers, with 87 per cent saying it is helping them manage disruption and demand volatility across their operations. Manufacturers also report benefits ranging from improved order fulfilment and delivery performance (23 per cent) and better forecasting and decision-making through data insights (23 per cent), to stronger supply chain resilience (22 per cent). The next phase of investment is increasingly focused on AI and resilience. Over the next three to five years, more than a quarter (27 per cent) plan to invest in agentic AI or AI-driven planning, forecasting and decision-making systems, alongside cybersecurity and operational resilience technologies (25 per cent) and logistics automation (22 per cent). Businesses are also strengthening operational resilience through storage transition. More than one in 10 (13 per cent) have increased on-site storage or are holding additional buffer stock, while 10 per cent are actively expanding storage capacity. Growth in production volumes is the most frequently cited driver of additional storage needs (22 per cent), followed by geopolitical supply-chain uncertainty and increased customer stockpiling (both 19 per cent). Tom Horton, Head of Manufacturing at Barclays UK Corporate Bank, said: “Despite continued pressure from energy costs and a more uncertain global environment, businesses are responding by looking further ahead, investing with greater certainty and building more resilient operating models." “The opportunities ahead are significant. From advanced manufacturing and AI-enabled operations to defence supply chains and national infrastructure projects, businesses are positioning themselves to capitalise on long-term growth markets. Those able to invest, innovate and scale will be well placed to benefit from the next phase of the sector’s development.” Defence and critical infrastructure opportunities gather pace As manufacturers continue to invest for growth, opportunities in defence, security and critical infrastructure markets are becoming increasingly important across the sector. More than three quarters of manufacturers surveyed (77 per cent) view working with the defence sector more positively than 12 months ago. As governments and businesses respond to a more uncertain global environment, 72 per cent of manufacturers have reported increased demand from defence and security customers. Looking ahead, manufacturers are taking a longer-term view of emerging growth opportunities. More than a quarter (27 per cent) plan to develop or sell defence-related products over the next three to five years, with the same proportion targeting dual-use products with both civilian and military applications. This shift is already influencing investment decisions, with 81 per cent of firms saying they have made changes to support defence, national security and critical infrastructure. This includes planned investment in physical security upgrades (66 per cent), security clearances and specialist recruitment (63 per cent). Sarah Collins, Head of SME Industries at Barclays Business Banking said: “Manufacturers are showing a remarkable ability to adapt, whether that's embracing new technologies, strengthening their operations or exploring opportunities in emerging markets." “For smaller businesses in particular, balancing investment with day-to-day resilience remains a priority. Through the Barclays Business Prosperity Fund and our wider support offering, we're helping manufacturers access the finance, insights and networks they need to grow, improve productivity and unlock new opportunities.” To support businesses to invest for growth, the £22bn Barclays Business Prosperity Fund is available to provide lending and refinancing to eligible Business Banking and UK Corporate Banking clients across the UK.

Family Business United is delighted to announce a new addition to its 2027 events calendar, offering family business owners and leaders the opportunity to go behind the scenes at one of Britain’s most celebrated family-owned breweries. On Tuesday 6 April 2027, Family Business United will host an exclusive Family Business Tour & Insight at Hall & Woodhouse in Blandford St. Mary, Dorset, bringing together the story of a remarkable family business with a unique opportunity to experience the business from the inside. Founded in 1777 by Charles Hall in Blandford Forum, Hall & Woodhouse has grown from its Dorset brewing roots into one of the UK's best-known independent family-owned regional breweries. Today, the business is synonymous with its Badger Beers range and operates an estate of more than 180 pubs across the south of England. Yet, behind the beer and the pubs lies something even more enduring: a family business that has successfully navigated almost two and a half centuries of changing markets, generations, consumer tastes and economic conditions. The event will provide attendees with an opportunity to explore that story first-hand. 250 Years Of Family Business Heritage The event will include a behind-the-scenes tour of Hall & Woodhouse, followed by an insight session featuring Anthony Woodhouse, a seventh-generation member of the family, who will share his perspective on the family's journey, the evolution of the business and what it takes to sustain a family enterprise across generations. For family business owners, there will be plenty to take away from a business that has had to continually evolve while remaining rooted in its heritage and family ownership. Hall & Woodhouse's story is one of longevity, but also of innovation. Alongside its traditional country inns, the business has developed a reputation for creating ambitious, multi-million-pound, custom-designed destination pubs, demonstrating how a historic family business can continue to invest, innovate and create new experiences for customers. The company's achievements have also been recognised beyond the brewery itself. In 2025, Hall & Woodhouse was named Best Managed Pub Company at the Publican Awards, while 2026 marked a landmark year for the business as it celebrated 250 years of Dorset brewing heritage, including a visit from King Charles as part of the celebrations. An Opportunity To Learn From Another Great British Family Business Family Business United's Tour & Insight events are designed to provide family business owners and next-generation leaders with something that cannot always be captured in a case study or conference presentation: the opportunity to step inside another family business, see how it operates and hear directly from the people involved. The Hall & Woodhouse event promises to be no different. The day will combine a tour of the business, an informal insight into the family's experience of building and sustaining the business over seven generations, and the opportunity to meet and network with fellow family business community members over a buffet lunch. Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United, said: "We are delighted to be adding Hall & Woodhouse to our 2027 events calendar. There are few better examples of family business longevity than a company that can trace its roots back to 1777 and is still independently owned by the family today." "What makes these visits so valuable is the opportunity to go beyond the public story of a family business and hear about the decisions, challenges, opportunities and values that have shaped it over generations. Hall & Woodhouse has an incredible story to tell and we are looking forward to bringing our family business community together to experience it first-hand." Join Us At Hall & Woodhouse The Family Business Tour & Insight at Hall & Woodhouse takes place on Tuesday 6 April 2027, from 10.30am to 2pm, at Hall & Woodhouse, Blandford St. Mary, Dorset. Places for this exclusive event are limited and are expected to be in demand. For family business owners, directors, next-generation leaders and those with an interest in the dynamics of successful family enterprises, it represents a rare opportunity to step inside one of Britain's longest-established family businesses and learn directly from the seventh generation. Book early to secure your place and join Family Business United as we shine a light on another great British family business.

From one Staffordshire industry stalwart to another - digger giant JCB is showing its support for the pottery industry by placing a major order with a leading chinaware manufacturer. The order with Stoke-on-Trent’s Duchess China 1888 will see its fine bone china used at JCB sites across the globe and available to buy for the first time as a collectors’ item for JCB memorabilia fans. The order for around 1,300 cups, saucers, plates, teapots, and coffee pots will be used at the company’s World Headquarters in Rocester as well as JCB North America and JCB Brazil, and JCB dealerships across the UK, Europe and as far afield as Panama. The latest order is the largest ever placed in a relationship spanning more than 25 years and is the first order to take Duchess China products across multiple JCB sites globally. Duchess China ware plays a particularly important part in the JCB Visitor Centre experience at the World Headquarters which last year welcomed almost 57,000 guests, served 39,000 teas and coffees, 14,000 lunches and served dinner to more than 1,000 people on the JCB branded fine bone chinaware. In addition, JCB branded mugs embossed with 22ct gold are being produced for the first time and will be sold, along with JCB cups and saucers, at its Visitor Centre gift shop at Rocester as well as online via www.jcbshop.com by searching the word 'duchess'. JCB Chairman Lord Bamford said: “Flying the flag for great British business wherever we can is important to JCB and particularly so for fellow Staffordshire industries. The Potteries and its people have always held a special place in my heart and I’m pleased JCB can do its bit to support the ceramics industry in Stoke-on-Trent. I’m also delighted that some of our overseas factories and dealers will be using Duchess China products to showcase the area’s ceramics skills at JCB sites around the world.” Based in Uttoxeter Road, Longton, Duchess China 1888 lists Harrods, The Orient Express and fashion houses such as Burberry and Jimmy Choo among its clients. Co-owner and director Jason Simms said: “Every piece of chinaware made here goes through up to 30 pairs of hands and we are all proud to know that it is valued and used by an iconic and successful brand like JCB. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do; our clay is made here in Stoke-on-Trent and our products are handmade from start to finish by local people who are among the industry’s most skilled artisans." "Ensuring their crafts - from gilding to hand painting - remain alive is vital for the industry and JCB’s support over the decades shows how much this artistry is appreciated." “We have much in common with JCB; we both have proud histories in this county, we both produce the highest quality products and we are both ambitious. It is a privilege to have been associated with the brand for more than a quarter of a century and long may our relationship continue.” Duchess China 1888 also runs factory tours in association with the nearby Gladstone Pottery Museum. For details email gladstone@stoke.gov.uk or telephone 01782 237777.