When it comes to Christmas trimmings, the people of Hampshire know what they want - and shoppers are certainly bringing home the bacon this year with record numbers of pigs in blankets being snapped up from farm shops in Wickham and Winchester. The tasty Christmas classics - a farm-shop-made chipolata wrapped in locally-sourced bacon - have been ordered in record numbers by customers at Westlands Farm Shop’s two branches. Staff at the two shops have been up to their elbows in sausages and bacon wrapping 4,800 sausages already this year. With over 700 Christmas orders already placed and over a week still to go, the shop has reported that 481 packs of 10 pigs-in-blankets have been reserved for local Christmas dinners. Among this year's orders, 213 customers have chosen free-range turkeys from Portchester, putting the business on course to surpass 2024's total orders with several weeks still to go until the big day. The numbers tell a bigger story about changing consumer values. Customers are increasingly prioritising transparency and traceability over convenience, choosing to know exactly where their food comes from and who has produced it. For many, the answer lies in supporting businesses where they can see the entire supply chain, from farm to table. Operations Manager Harry King said: "We're seeing more and more people wanting to know exactly where their Christmas dinner has come from. There's a real move towards conscious shopping and supporting local producers, especially this year." The trend comes during what has been a particularly challenging year for British farmers, with many facing difficult conditions and economic pressures. By choosing local farm shops, customers are actively supporting regional jobs and keeping money within local supply chains. "It's been a tough 12 months for farmers across the UK, so it's encouraging to see this level of support from our customers. They're buying local, and actively seeking out traceable, high-quality produce and asking questions about how it's been reared." The farm shop expects to exceed last year's 800 orders, crediting the increase to customers prioritising transparency and supporting regional food networks. For those yet to place their Christmas orders, Westlands Farm Shop is still taking bookings for the festive period.

The spirit of generosity was alive and well last week as family businesses from across London and the South East came together at Hayman’s of London in Balham for the annual Family Business Festive Food Parcel event. Hosted at one of the UK’s oldest family-owned gin distilleries, Hayman’s remains proudly family-run, with Christopher Hayman and his children, James and Miranda, at the helm. The event brought together guests, supporters and members of the wider community, all united by a shared purpose: to support families in need across London and the South East this Christmas. In the days leading up to the event, and on the day itself, attendees donated hundreds of food items, filling boxes with essential groceries alongside festive treats. Guests also enjoyed the opportunity to step behind the scenes at Hayman’s, gaining insight into the distilling process and the rich heritage that has helped shape the business into a globally recognised British gin brand. Following the event, teams from Family Business United and The Pantry worked together to assemble the food parcels, which have since been distributed through schools across the region to ensure they reach families who need them most during the festive season. Family Business United worked closely with Luke Consiglio and his team at The Pantry UK, who provide 40,000 meals to children in schools across the UK every day. Through their network of schools and the insight of headteachers, families most in need were identified as recipients of the parcels created through the campaign. Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United, expressed his appreciation for the incredible support shown by the family business community: “We were absolutely delighted with the response this year. The generosity shown by family businesses has been truly inspiring, and the items donated will make a real difference to families at what can be a particularly challenging time of year. “Family is at the heart of everything we do at Family Business United, and it’s heart-warming to see our community come together to support other families in such a meaningful way.” The event highlighted not only the strength of the family business community, but also its shared values of compassion, collaboration and a commitment to making a positive impact. Concluding, Paul added: “We would like to thank everyone who helped make this event possible and all those who donated so generously." "Your support will bring much-needed help and festive cheer to families who need it most this Christmas.”

Furniture Village has opened a state-of-the-art National Distribution Centre at Prologis Park Marston Gate, marking a significant milestone in a year of strong growth and long-term investment. By relocating its operation to larger premises immediately adjacent to its existing National Distribution Centre, Furniture Village is making a transformative investment that will double its logistical capacity and support hundreds of existing and new jobs. It will unlock even faster delivery times for customers, strengthen service nationwide and give the business the scale it needs to support rising order volumes. The new facility became fully operational ahead of peak trading in Q4 2025. Founded in 1989 and now the UK’s largest family-owned furniture retailer with 59 stores nationwide, Furniture Village sells an extensive range of beautifully made furniture for the whole home. The new facility will bring together the company’s national and regional distribution services while also housing office space for operational support and a bespoke training facility, creating an expanded, technology-enhanced hub for fulfilment and customer service teams. A comprehensive refurbishment by Prologis included the renewal of offices and taking the unit to an EPC A rating. Prologis Essentials has provided procurement assistance to Furniture Village in relation to elements of its fit-out including wide aisle racking and LED lighting. A bespoke skills academy has been created, giving colleagues the opportunity to hone their expertise in logistics operations and develop industry-leading customer-service skills. By remaining at Marston Gate, Furniture Village retains its experienced workforce, avoids operational disruption, and continues to benefit from the park’s on-site café and mature landscaping featuring an orchard and walking routes. Prologis facilitated the expansion through supporting a seamless transaction within the portfolio, underscoring their commitment to helping customers scale quickly in high-performing, sustainable facilities. Furniture Village prides itself on establishing and maintaining good working relationships with its landlords and this transaction reflects the benefits this can afford both parties. Montagu Evans represented Furniture Village. Colliers, Adroit and Savills represented Prologis. David Ayers, Operations Director, Furniture Village said: “Securing our new national distribution centre gives us the capacity and flexibility to keep pace with customer demand while investing in the future of our team. By increasing our fast-delivery stock and streamlining our operations, we’re able to offer customers a quicker, smoother experience from purchase to delivery, wherever they are in the UK.” Gillian Scarth, Leasing Director, Prologis UK “Furniture Village’s decision to expand at Marston Gate demonstrates how this well-located park can support a growing retailer whilst minimising operational disruption. By refurbishing DC2 to modern, energy-efficient standards and streamlining the move, we’re enabling our customer to scale sustainably and keep its talent exactly where it belongs - here in Central Bedfordshire.” Photo: Furniture Village National Distribution Centre

Family businesses form the backbone of many economies worldwide, including the UK. They contribute significantly to employment, innovation, and community development. However, running a family business brings unique challenges, particularly in governance. The interplay of family relationships and business complexities can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and inefficiencies. To ensure long-term success, family business boards must focus on building trust, fostering accountability, and avoiding common governance pitfalls. Trust is the foundation of any successful family business board. Without it, decision-making becomes prone to suspicion and inefficiency. Open and transparent communication is crucial. Board members should be encouraged to engage in honest dialogue, ensuring all voices are heard. Sharing relevant information about the business’s financial health, strategic goals, and challenges with all stakeholders is essential, as is holding regular meetings to discuss key issues and provide updates. Trust is further strengthened by establishing clear roles and responsibilities for all members. When roles are well-defined and documented in a governance charter, confusion and potential conflicts can be minimised. A culture of respect must also be cultivated, where each member’s contributions are valued regardless of their familial ties. Disagreements should be addressed constructively, focusing on issues rather than personal differences, and conflict resolution training can be a valuable tool in this regard. Accountability is equally important for ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of a family business board. Clear expectations should be set, with measurable goals and objectives for both the board as a whole and individual members. Key performance indicators (KPIs) can be used to monitor progress and ensure alignment with the business’s strategic vision. Regular performance reviews should be conducted to evaluate the board’s overall effectiveness and provide constructive feedback to individual members. A code of conduct outlining ethical standards and behavioural expectations can further reinforce accountability. All members should commit to this code, demonstrating their dedication to the success of the business. It is also critical to separate family and business matters. Family-specific issues should be addressed in a dedicated family council or similar forum, leaving board meetings focused on business strategy and governance. Family business boards often face common governance challenges that can hinder their effectiveness. Nepotism and favouritism can erode trust and undermine merit-based decision-making. To counter these risks, appointments should be based on qualifications and merit rather than family ties. Involving independent, non-family board members can also introduce objectivity and expertise to the decision-making process. Another common pitfall is the lack of succession planning. Developing a robust succession plan ensures a smooth leadership transition and helps avoid uncertainty. Identifying and grooming potential successors early is essential, providing them with the necessary training and mentorship to prepare for future responsibilities. Resistance to change is another challenge that can stifle growth. Family businesses must embrace innovation and adaptability to remain competitive while balancing respect for their legacy with the need for fresh perspectives from younger family members. Overdependence on family members can also be risky. Diversifying the board by including external professionals with industry expertise can enhance decision-making and reduce the risk of insularity. Finally, inadequate governance structures can lead to inefficiencies. Formalising governance processes through a written constitution or charter helps outline decision-making, conflict resolution, and succession planning procedures. Independent directors can play a crucial role in bridging the gap between family dynamics and professional governance. Their impartiality and expertise allow them to provide unbiased advice on strategic decisions, mediate family conflicts, and bring fresh perspectives to ensure the business remains competitive. Additionally, family business boards should prioritise education and continuous improvement. Attending workshops and seminars on governance best practices, staying informed about industry trends, and encouraging younger family members to pursue education in business management or governance can significantly enhance the board’s effectiveness. In conclusion, building trust, fostering accountability, and avoiding governance pitfalls are vital for the success of family business boards. By prioritising open communication, clear roles, and professional governance structures, family businesses can navigate the complexities of family dynamics while ensuring sustainable growth. With a strong foundation of trust and accountability, family business boards can safeguard their legacy and thrive in an increasingly competitive world.

Alan Boswell Group has been named ‘Insurance Broker of the Year’ at the prestigious British Insurance Awards 2025, held on the 9th of July at the Royal Albert Hall. The award recognises outstanding customer service, client retention, and excellence across the UK insurance industry. Alan Boswell Group stood out against the other finalists for its customer-first approach, continued investment in its people and communities, and commitment to providing friendly, expert advice. Speaking about the award, Alan Boswell, Executive Chairman, said, “We’re proud to be recognised as Insurance Broker of the Year." " This award is a testament to the hard work and professionalism of everyone across our Group and reflects our continued commitment to putting clients at the centre of everything we do.” Founded over 40 years ago, Alan Boswell Group is one of the UK’s largest independent insurance brokers, offering expert advice and tailored insurance, risk management, and financial solutions to individuals and businesses. The award follows the Group's continued growth and success, with the recent acquisition of three brokers further bolstering their presence across East Anglia.

In a world where corporate slogans often promise more authenticity than they deliver, December offers a welcome reminder of what genuine integrity looks like. You’ll find it not in glossy advertising campaigns or seasonal sales targets, but in the quiet, consistent ethics of family businesses, firms built on values that have outlasted markets, trends and sometimes even economic logic. As Christmas approaches, these companies show, year after year, that doing business “the right way” is not only possible but profoundly impactful. Family firms, whether a three-generation bakery in Devon or an independent engineering outfit in Wales, bring something into the marketplace that cannot be manufactured or replicated: a moral compass shaped by heritage. Their approach to business, rooted in trust, fairness, care and continuity, mirrors the very principles many of us associate with Christmas. It’s no coincidence that when consumers seek meaning, warmth or sincerity at this time of year, they often find themselves returning to the family-run names that have served their communities for decades. Values Passed Down, Not Printed Out Most family businesses don’t need laminated mission statements. Their ethos is inherited, not invented. Children grow up watching their parents greet customers by name, treat suppliers as partners and view employees as extended kin. These lessons settle deep: you don’t cut corners, you don’t over-promise, and you don’t forget the people who help you prosper. Christmas, with its themes of generosity and goodwill, throws this into sharp focus. Where some firms view the festive season as merely a revenue spike, family businesses experience it as a renewal of purpose. They feel a responsibility, not just to sell, but to serve. Whether that means staying open late for a frantic customer who forgot the cranberry sauce or delivering a Christmas hamper to a long-standing client who has had a tough year, the gestures are genuine, not strategic. These acts, small and steady, reveal a truth at the core of both Christmas and strong family firms: values are lived, not advertised. Ethics as Everyday Practice Doing business the “right way” is rarely the easiest route, particularly under the pressures of the modern marketplace. Yet family firms often continue to prioritise slow processes, local sourcing and fair relationships that might seem antiquated to outsiders but remain central to their integrity. Take the family-owned printers who refuse to compromise on sustainable materials, even when cheaper alternatives beckon. Or the Midlands manufacturer that closes its factory for a day each December so employees can volunteer at local food banks. Or the Cornish grocer that offers pay-what-you-can veg boxes during the week before Christmas so no family goes without a proper dinner. These decisions embody a spirit that corporate social responsibility policies attempt to codify—but that family enterprises have followed instinctively for generations. For family businesses, their values and ethics aren’t seasonal; Christmas simply makes them shine more brightly. Relationships at the Heart of Everything Christmas is, above all, a season of connection. Family businesses understand this intuitively, because relationships are the foundation of their entire existence. Many owners will tell you their company survived not through clever strategy but through loyalty, customers who return year after year, suppliers who extend trust, staff who feel personally invested in the firm’s future. The bond between a family business and its community is mutual, enduring and emotional, a far cry from the transactional nature of many corporate interactions. During December, these relationships become especially vivid. The butcher knows which pensioner lives alone and slips an extra sausage into their bag. The local toyshop sets aside a hard-to-find gift for a regular’s child. The florist donates wreaths to the hospice where the founder’s late mother was cared for. These are not gestures of marketing, but gestures of humanity. In their prioritisation of compassion, understanding and reciprocity, family firms quietly demonstrate the same ideals that lie at the heart of Christmas. Responsibility That Transcends Profit What sets family-run businesses apart is the continuity of custodianship. Owners often view themselves less as entrepreneurs and more as caretakers of a legacy, responsible for upholding the standards set by those who came before and preserving a livelihood for those who will come after. The long-term view tempers decisions and reinforces ethical practice. At Christmas, when consumption reaches its peak, this sense of responsibility provides a powerful counterbalance. Many family firms work harder than ever to ensure that quality, honesty and care are not sacrificed in the name of demand. They extend working hours, maintain rigorous standards and pour enormous emotional energy into delivering something worthy of their name. Profit brings sustainability, of course. But pride, moral pride, familial pride, is often the stronger motivator. Why It Matters Now More Than Ever As society grapples with economic uncertainty, environmental anxiety and a growing disconnect between business and community, the values embodied by family firms feel increasingly vital. They remind us that commerce and conscience need not be opposites. They show that kindness can coexist with competitiveness, and that long-term trust is more valuable than short-term gain. Christmas amplifies this message. It urges us to look beyond the transactional, to cherish what is authentic, to choose connection over convenience. Family businesses, with their deep-rooted values and steadfast commitment to doing business the right way, stand as living proof that the true spirit of the season can be found not in extravagance but in integrity. A Season of Reflection and Renewal Ultimately, the strong correlation between family values in family firms and the true spirit of Christmas comes down to one simple idea: both are grounded in humanity. In empathy. In taking care of one another. In choosing the ethical path, even when the world makes it difficult. This festive season, when we seek meaning amid the glitter, we might find it not in the biggest brands or the flashiest displays but in the warm glow of the family businesses that have quietly upheld these principles all along. Because when a company stands on values passed through generations, Christmas is not merely a season of sales—it becomes a celebration of everything they believe in.

Sterling Home has revealed its Tillicoultry flagship store’s most breathtaking refurbishment in 50 years. The UK’s largest furniture store is gearing up to shake up the shopping scene. Covering a massive 250,000 sq. ft, the multi-million-pound transformation has created more than just a store – it's a full-on experience built around an improved customer journey. Big, bold and bursting with inspiration, it’s a place you could spend half a day exploring Featuring refined layouts, designer-led departments, and a thrilling take on home shopping, Tillicoultry has something for everyone. Tillicoultry’s transformation marks a milestone moment for the family-owned brand, which first opened its doors at the former Devonvale Mill in 1974. Over the decades, the building has evolved from a single showroom into a multi-level destination, but this latest revamp represents its most ambitious renewal yet. In fact, shoppers might want to take a seat for this next statistic. The updated store features a number of standout attractions, including the UK’s largest dining furniture showroom with a whopping 110 dining sets on display. Popular names such as Duresta and At The Helm lead the lineup in the sofa studio, reinforcing Sterling Home’s reputation for quality, choice, and design-led collections. Discover Queen of Print Orla Kiely's vibrant interiors, available exclusively in Scotland at Tillicoultry, while a leading celebrity mum will soon launch her first-ever furniture collection at Tillicoultry and throughout Sterling Home stores in Scotland. Sterling Home Tillicoultry also features brands and collections generally not available anywhere outside London. Ruby Gondek, who has worked at the Tillicoultry branch for 49 years and will celebrate her golden 50th work-a-versary in November 2026 described the reopening as ‘a moment of pride’. Euan Graham, Buying & Marketing Director and third-generation family owner at Sterling Home said: “Tillicoultry has been transformed into a true destination for the whole family. With something to explore around every corner, from inspiring interiors to everyday furniture, it’s a place where everyone can enjoy the experience together." “We are absolutely delighted to reopen with an all-round better experience for our loyal customers, and we can’t wait to welcome new faces too,” Founded in Scotland more than half a century ago, Sterling Home has built its name on craftsmanship and quality. Today, with stores across the country, including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Uddingston, Dunfermline, Montrose and Elgin, its Tillicoultry location remains the company’s flagship and the heart of its operations. Originally built in 1840, the Devonvale Mill has long been part of the region’s heritage. From its days as a barracks during the First World War to its transformation into a furniture showroom in the 1970s, the building has evolved with the community around it. Sterling Home’s history even includes a royal connection; the business once furnished the rest room for the late Queen at Alloa Town Hall. Now, 50 years on, the newly refurbished Tillicoultry store reinforces the brand’s position at the forefront of UK home retail. As it looks to the next half-century, the store combines heritage and innovation on a scale unmatched anywhere else in the country. With the brand launching its up to 30% off Winter Sale on Boxing Day, it’s the perfect moment to discover the latest offers and experience the newly refurbished Tillicoultry flagship for yourself.

In every British high street, from the glow of Edinburgh’s shop windows to the bustle of London’s backstreets, December arrives and the festive season kicks off with a particular kind of magic. Fairy lights flicker, wreaths appear on doors, and the cold air fills with the unmistakable scent of mince pies and pine. But behind the sparkle lies an unsung force that helps shape the season as we know it: the family business. Across the UK, these enterprises, some centuries old, others only a generation in, form the beating heart of Christmas. They are the makers of hand-tied wreaths, the bakers of festive stollen, the butchers preparing turkeys at dawn, and the shopkeepers who know their customers by name. In a world increasingly dominated by faceless conglomerates and overnight shipping, family businesses offer something far more precious at Christmas: continuity, craftsmanship, and community. The Quiet Tradition-Keepers For many families who run businesses, Christmas isn’t simply a commercial milestone; it’s the culmination of months of preparation and, often, years of inherited knowledge. Take the small Norfolk farm that has reared turkeys for four generations, each bird hand-reared and slow-grown. Or the Yorkshire chocolatier whose festive truffles follow a recipe scribbled in a grandmother’s notebook, a tradition brought out each December with reverence and pride. These businesses anchor the festive season in something authentic. Their products carry stories, of migration, perseverance, craft, and kinship, that can’t be mass-manufactured. The Christmas pudding from the bakery around the corner might taste wonderful because of its ingredients, but it means something because you know the family who steams each batch, year after year. Community at the Core Walk into a family-run shop in December and you’ll witness a kind of relationship that feels increasingly rare. The staff, often a mix of siblings, cousins, in-laws and lifelong friends, create an atmosphere that can’t be scripted. They greet customers with familiarity, swap recipe tips across the counter, and remember who prefers cranberry-studded sourdough or who needs gluten-free mince pies. These businesses are, quite literally, part of the neighbourhood. They sponsor local school fairs, donate raffle prizes, and keep their lights on for customers running late after the school nativity. During the pandemic, when supermarkets were inundated, it was often the family-run shops, greengrocers and delis that organised phone-in orders, delivered to shielding residents, and checked in on elderly customers. At Christmas, this sense of community becomes a lifeline. In a season where loneliness peaks for many, the simple warmth of a familiar shopkeeper or a neighbourly chat at the counter can make all the difference. The Emotional Labour Behind the Tinsel What festive shoppers rarely see is the sheer graft that keeps these businesses thriving in December. While many of us curl up with mulled wine, families behind the scenes are starting their days before dawn, juggling not just orders and suppliers but childcare, school runs, and end-of-term chaos. Children grow up with memories not of lazy holidays but of tying ribbons on hampers or packing biscuits into tins. Many learn to man the till before they learn algebra. Christmas for family businesses is rarely restful, but it is deeply bonding. Parents share skills with their children, siblings work side by side, and the sense of doing something together, something that matters to the community, becomes its own reward. A Human Alternative in a Digital Age Online giants may dominate in convenience, but they rarely offer the irreplaceable extras that come with small, family-run firms: the personal touches, the last-minute custom orders, the advice that comes from decades of passion rather than seasonal temp staff. These businesses remind us that Christmas is about presence, not just presents. It’s about knowing where things come from, who made them, and why they matter. When you buy from a family enterprise, you’re supporting not only livelihoods but legacies—and ensuring those traditions survive for another generation. The Gift of Continuity Perhaps what makes family businesses so vital at Christmas is their role in preserving a sense of continuity in a rapidly changing world. They offer stability amid uncertainty, familiarity amid upheaval. Their stories, passed from parent to child, year to year, mirror the very heart of the festive season: gathering, gratitude, and the power of shared heritage. So, this December, when the streets are bright and bustling, spare a thought for the families behind the scenes, laying out displays with tired hands, welcoming customers with genuine warmth, and keeping alive the traditions that make Christmas feel like Christmas. Because when you support a family business, you’re not just buying a product. You’re buying a story, a legacy, and a little piece of holiday magic that no large corporation can ever truly replicate.

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.