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- Hampshire Chamber Wants Productivity Boosting Budget
Ahead of the Autumn Budget on 26 November 2025, Hampshire Chamber of Commerce is calling on the Chancellor of the Exchequer to focus on business-friendly measures that support growth and turn around years of weak UK productivity. Ross McNally, Hampshire Chamber’s Chief Executive and Executive Chairman, said: “The number one priority must be to avoid any new business taxes. The recent rise in Employers’ National Insurance has put a burden on workplaces leading to a virtually static number of vacancies and higher unemployment." “We understand the Chancellor has a fiscal shortfall to fix and must tackle disappointing productivity growth caused by many previous factors, but hard-working businesses now need respite from high labour costs and other taxes in order to create the scope to invest and grow. Business cannot be expected to shoulder the burden alone." “We urge Rachel Reeves to hold off on any new workplace taxes and at the same time reduce regulatory burdens, cut business rates and work with us on a clear, consistent and supportive strategy to champion skills development, clean growth and infrastructure investment." “To help our exporters, including those many Hampshire firms we support through our International Trade team, we call on the government to continue working with us to strengthen business networks in high-growth markets. That way, companies here can take advantage of the global opportunities that come up. Steady leadership on export support is vital." “Here in Hampshire, we have the skills and knowledge to make and deliver world-class products and services. Our success drives economic growth and helps to raise wages and living standards." “Our message to the Chancellor could not be clearer: give firms here and across the country a reason to be optimistic. If, together, we can achieve higher productivity growth it will not only deliver real wage increases but will be the number one contributor to the tax receipts that fund the essential public services we all rely on.”
- Contract Staffing Grows As Employers Navigate Market Uncertainty
The latest Hiring Trends report from the Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo), produced in partnership with Bullhorn, reveals a steady rise in contract hiring activity, signalling growing demand for flexible talent solutions across the professional staffing sector. According to the data, contract vacancies rose by 2% between September and October 2025, with a notable 8% year-on-year increase. Contract placements also followed suit, up 1% month-on-month and 13% compared to October 2024, highlighting the continued reliance on contingent workers amid ongoing economic uncertainty. While the permanent market remains more cautious, there are signs of stabilisation. Permanent vacancies held steady in October following a 26% surge between August and September. Although year-on-year figures show a 16% decline, permanent placements rose by 2% month-on-month and 5% year-on-year, suggesting that recent vacancy growth is beginning to translate into hiring activity. Samantha Hurley, Managing Director at APSCo UK, commented: “The uptick in contract hiring reflects the agility that businesses are seeking in today’s market. With ongoing economic uncertainty and evolving workforce expectations, organisations are increasingly turning to flexible staffing models to maintain momentum while managing risk." “While permanent hiring is still finding its footing, the growth in placements is a promising sign that confidence is gradually returning. It’s clear that professional staffing firms are playing a pivotal role in helping businesses adapt, providing access to skilled talent quickly and efficiently, whether on a contract or permanent basis.” Andy Ingham, SVP Sales, EMEA & APAC commented: "October showed steady progress in both contract and permanent hiring. Contract jobs and placements saw modest month-over-month growth, a positive sign as we move into November." "The permanent market remains stable, with recruiters showing improved efficiency, possibly an early sign of AI helping teams deliver more effectively. Overall, a solid month that points to quiet but steady momentum in the market.”
- Stockport ‘L!STEN’ Youth Alliance Honoured With Prestigious Award
A group of young people from Stockport have been recognised on the national stage for transforming how youth voices shape decisions locally. The L!STEN Youth Alliance has been named the UK’s leading youth-led group and presented with the British Citizen Youth Award 2025 at the Palace of Westminster. Receiving the Dame Mary Perkins British Citizen Group Award, the L!STEN Youth Alliance was celebrated for its outstanding contribution to improving the wellbeing and lives of young people across Stockport. Formed in partnership between Stockport Council and local social enterprise PIE: Pursuing Individual Excellence, L!STEN launched in 2023 to ensure young people’s voices influence decisions that affect them. The group includes around 20 young people from across the borough - including members with additional needs - and works closely with local organisations to represent thousands of youth perspectives every year. Their work has already made a lasting impact through: Annual Wellbeing Festivals designed by young people, for young people. The Stockport Youth Summit, which brings together 250 students, councillors and local leaders to discuss real issues. Quarterly youth surveys with more than 1,000 responses each time, shaping council policy on topics from hate crime to the cost of living. Contributing to the One Stockport One Future Borough Plan, ensuring young people’s priorities are embedded in Stockport’s long-term strategy. Councillor Wendy Meikle, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, said: “L!STEN has transformed youth engagement in Stockport, giving young people pride, belonging, and a real voice in shaping change. This national recognition is thoroughly deserved - we’re so proud of their achievements and grateful to everyone who made it possible.” Beth Collins, founder and CEO of PIE, added: “When we started the L!STEN Youth Alliance just two years ago, we couldn’t have imagined how much the group would achieve. What began as a project to gather youth voices has grown into a powerful movement influencing policy, hosting major events and improving young people’s lives. This award celebrates their hard work - and the importance of listening to youth voices in everything we do.” Artemis, one of the young members, said: “To be recognised nationally for something we built together is incredible. Our hard work has made a real difference - and people know about us now!” Another member, Victoria, added: “Winning this award was the wackiest thing! It really shows that all the effort we’ve put in has paid off. I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved.” Since 2016, the British Citizen Youth Award (BCyA) has celebrated young people under 18 making extraordinary contributions to their communities. Each year, only one group nationwide receives the Dame Mary Perkins Group Award - and this year, that honour belongs to Stockport.
- North West Leicestershire Charity Receives The King’s Award
Bright Hope, a charity based in North West Leicestershire, has been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service for 2025. This is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to an MBE. Bright Hope offers a range of therapeutic and social care services, supporting individuals who have a life limiting condition or one that leads to a significant reduction in quality of life, as well as offering support to their partner, carer or family. Services include three drop-in Support Cafés located in Ashby, Ibstock and Coalville; counselling; befriending; complementary therapy; wellness support and day care, all based at Bright Hope House, Swannington. All services aim to give the power back to those using them, creating a community where no one is left behind, and everyone is lifted. Bright Hope is one of 231 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award this year. Their work, along with others from across the UK, reminds us of all the ways fantastic volunteers are contributing to their local communities and working to make life better for those around them. Laura Mackie, Chief Executive of Bright Hope, said: "We are incredibly honoured to receive The King’s Award for Voluntary Service – a recognition that belongs to every volunteer, supporter, and member of our Bright Hope community. We hope that this award helps us to reach new supporters, enabling us to continue our vital work – without which people would fall through the cracks." “Whether someone comes to us for wellness services, complementary therapy, or attends one of our Support Cafés, they’re part of something bigger. Bright Hope is more than a charity; it’s a social movement – a network of care, connection, and hope across North West Leicestershire." “As we receive no statutory funding, everything we do is made possible through the generosity of our supporters. However, to continue meeting the growing needs of our community, we urgently need more assistance to sustain and expand our vital work.” The King’s Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to support their communities. It was created in 2002 to celebrate Her Late Majesty The Queen’s Golden Jubilee and was continued following the accession of His Majesty The King. 2025 marks the third year of The King’s Award for Voluntary Service. Recipients are announced annually on 14th November, The King’s Birthday. Award winners this year are wonderfully diverse and include volunteer groups from across the UK. Representatives of Bright Hope will receive the award crystal and certificate from Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Michael Kapur, OBE CStJ, in the coming months. In addition, two individuals from Bright Hope will attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in the summer of 2026, along with other recipients of this year’s award. For more information on Bright Hope, and to donate, please visit here.
- Russell Joins The Bulls
Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce the signing of Papua New Guinea international Dan Russell on a one-year deal – subject to international clearance. The 6ft 4in back row forward, who can also play in the centres, spent seven years in the Queensland and NSW Cup competitions in Australia before making his NRL debut for St George Illawarra Dragons in 2023. Russell’s form for club and country saw him secure a move to Sam Burgess’ Warrington Wolves ahead of the 2025 season. Russell made 19 appearances this year in Super League, with nine of those coming for Salford Red Devils during a loan spell. Dan Russell said: “I am super excited, it’s going to be a challenge in the first year but it’s a challenge I am looking forward to with the players and staff that have been put together." “From watching the Bulls in the Championship they already had a good side who played good footy and after seeing them get promoted, I wanted to stay in Super League and being given the chance to work with Kurt [Haggerty] again and the players he’s brought in made it an easy decision." “I’m looking to bring some experience and versatility to the team in Super League, I can play back row and other positions I just want to be a real team player, cover where I can and we have a great group for the first year back which can make it a really special year." “The history of this club in Super League was another reason why I jumped at the chance to join, it is an exciting time and an exciting chance to continue the history of the club and I am looking forward to getting there and making a mark in 2026.” Bradford Bulls Head Coach Kurt Haggerty said: “I worked with Dan in a short space of time at Salford at the back end of the year, it didn’t work out at Warrington but he is big, athletic and can ball play on the edges. He is a player I like, he is a first class human being who will fit the environment really well and he is someone who will be highly thought of in the group." "I am really looking forward to helping him get to the next level in his game and be a consistent back row forward. There is a lot of Dan’s game that I like and there is a lot I think I can help him getting better with too and he knows his own improvement areas, I am excited to see what he can do.”
- State-Of-The-Art Endoscopy Unit Delivered By Henry Brothers Construction
Henry Brothers Construction has delivered a brand-new endoscopy unit at the Leicester General Hospital. The new unit includes six procedure rooms, and 20 private pods for patients before and after their procedures, each with an en-suite. Ian Taylor, Managing Director of Henry Brothers Construction, said: “We are delighted to have successfully completed our first project for the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust and look forward to more successful partnerships in the future." “The new Endoscopy Unit at the Leicester General Hospital will improve the diagnostic and treatment experience of patients and provide staff with a modern facility in which to work. Henry Brothers Construction is very proud to have delivered this new Endoscopy Unit which will play a key role in enhancing healthcare for the local community.” The endoscopy team at the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust already provides a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures to more than 30,000 patients every year and this new facility will help patients to be seen sooner in a purpose-built environment. In response to growing demand, the new unit will help ensure patients are seen more promptly, enabling quicker access to the next steps in their planned care. The unit will have the capacity to see an extra 9,000 patients every year, which will play an important part in reducing waiting lists. Associate Director of Operations, Rachael Briggs, said: “We know how important earlier diagnosis is for conditions such as cancer, which endoscopy procedures help to detect. We are delighted that this new facility is open to help our teams see and treat more patients, as well as bringing some of our services closer to this area of Leicester." “As part of the new unit, we have used digital solutions to replace paper forms, allowing our clinical teams to have more time to care for patients. The new facility is bright, open, and modern, which will make a big difference to those working here and visiting." "I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in this project for making it a reality. Our patients are at the heart of everything we do, and this new unit will go a long way towards improving their experience, and that of our team.” Work to deliver the one-storey unit started in March 2024 and was carried out by Henry Brothers Construction, along with project manager Selcon, quantity surveyor Rider Levitt Bucknall, principal designer Stephen George & Partners, architect P+HS, structural engineer Curtins, and mechanical and electrical engineer CPW. James Almond, Managing Director, P+HS Architects, said: “We’re delighted to have worked with Henry Brothers Construction and the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust on this important project. The new endoscopy unit is a fantastic example of how well-designed environments can enhance both patient experience and staff wellbeing. It’s a credit to everyone involved and we're proud to make a real difference to healthcare provisions in the region.” Henry Brothers Construction, based in Nottingham, is part of the Henry Brothers Group headquartered in Northern Ireland. The group comprises a number of manufacturing and construction sector companies, ranging from external construction through to interiors fit-out. In partnership with clients, it has a proven track record in education, defence, accommodation, commercial, industrial, transport and healthcare sectors.
- Act Now On Looming Shake-Up Of Tenants’ Rights
A senior lawyer at a south coast legal firm has urged landlords and lettings agents to ‘get ahead of what is to come’ as the countdown begins to a major reform of the private rented sector. Conor Maher, Senior Associate and specialist in Dispute Resolution and Regulatory Law at Ellis Jones Solicitors, made the call after the government published a ‘roadmap’ for the phased implementation of the long-awaited Renters’ Rights Act. The legislation, which received formal Royal Assent in October 2025, will introduce sweeping changes to the law around private tenancies next year. Key among them is the abolition, from 1 May 2026, of fixed-term tenancies and so-called ‘no-fault’ evictions, a means for landlords to gain possession under Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988. Minimum notice periods for evictions in respect of rent arrears and other grounds will be extended from the same date in favour of tenants. Conor, a Bournemouth-based Solicitor Advocate, said: “While other aspects of the legislative packages will be phased in later, it is essential that landlords understand that 1 May 2026 is now the fixed date as regards both the end of Section 21 and the start of a longer eviction process." “Our strong advice to all landlords and lettings agents is to review tenancy agreements to ensure continuing compliance with the law. There is a clear need to understand their obligations to ensure no breaches occur and the scope for legal liability is minimised." “There are potential criminal penalties that could apply, with fines for up to £40,000. Landlords need to have systems in place to protect themselves from the risk of an accidental breach.” The new legislation is widely seen as heralding a significant shift towards tenant security, regulatory oversight and the placing of greater responsibilities on landlords and agents. As well as the changes to the rules around evictions, a new Private Rented Sector database is to be rolled out from late 2026 which is expected to include an annual registration fee for landlords and agents. And an Ombudsman redress scheme is envisaged, with the government mooting introduction in 2028. Conor added: “Landlords need to get ahead of what is to come so they can minimise future disruption and potential legal exposure.” As it has done on several occasions before, Ellis Jones plans to host a seminar for landlords and lettings agents to discuss the legal changes. It will be held around the time of the law taking effect in April next year.
- Private Sector Downturn Set To Persist Into 2026
Firms across the private sector expect activity to fall in the next three months (weighted balance of -20%), extending a run of negative predictions that began in late 2024, according to the CBI’s latest Growth Indicator. The downturn is expected to be broad-based, with business volumes in the services sector set to decline (-15%), driven by weak expectations in both business & professional services (-12%) and consumer services (-28%). Distribution sales are expected to fall sharply (-34%), alongside a contraction in manufacturing output (-19%). The disappointing outlook comes as private sector activity fell in the three months to October (-32%), the same pace as in the three months to September. All sub-sectors reported falling activity. Alpesh Paleja, Deputy Chief Economist, CBI, said: “Firms are facing a difficult winter, with private sector momentum weak and confidence fragile. Uncertainty around the upcoming Budget is weighing heavily on sentiment, with many firms keeping key decisions on hold until more clarity is forthcoming. Cost pressures from a variety of sources remain strong, with last year’s tax rises adding to the drag. “As a result, tough decisions to deliver policy stability and address fiscal pressures will be needed at the Budget. Our surveys clearly show that the private sector cannot bear the brunt of these decisions once again. The business tax burden is already at a 25-year high and – rather than tinkering around the edges – the Chancellor must strategically address the tax system’s complexities that are undermining growth and deliver a Budget and tax system that helps businesses invest, hire, and scale.” Key findings from our monthly Services Sector Survey showed: Business volumes in the services sector fell in the three months to October (-35%), at the same pace as in the three months to September. Both business & professional services (-34%) and consumer services (-40%) volumes fell heavily through the quarter. Hiring intentions within the services sector remain weak. Business & professional services expect headcount to fall modestly over the next three months (-11%), while consumer services companies expect a sharp fall in numbers employed (-33%) Selling price expectations in the services sector eased to their long-run average in October (+7%, from +14% in September). Inflation expectations have moderated for both business & professional services firms (+5%) and consumer services (+18%) A balance is the weighted percentage of companies reporting an increase minus those reporting a decrease.
- ‘Best In Britain For Our Size‘ Care Home Provider Wins National Award
A south coast care home provider has seen off the challenge of competitor groups from across the country to scoop a prestigious National Care Award. Colten Care was one of 11 finalists in the category of Care Home Group (Medium), for groups with between 20 and 40 homes. Judges praised the family-owned provider, which runs 21 homes in Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire and West Sussex, for its ‘one team’ ethos, professional nursing credentials and commitment to creating ‘personalised experiences tailored to each resident’s needs and preferences’. The award submission explained how all Colten homes are purpose-built by sister company Colten Developments, promote ‘refined living’ through elegant interiors and inspiring gardens, and strive to ensure residents ‘feel at home and connected’. Colten Care Chief Executive Mark Aitchison said: “The award win is truly an amazing achievement, testimony to the dedicated, passionate, caring people we have throughout Colten. This success demonstrates independent recognition of our culture of consistent clinical excellence, with seven homes rated Outstanding by the CQC and the remainder Good, and the thousands of reviews on Carehome.co.uk that inform our remarkable group rating of 9.9 out of ten.” Paying tribute to company founders John Colwell and Adrian Otten, Mark added: “It was their vision to define Colten as the best that has enabled us to make this award win possible, best in Britain for our size.” Elaine Farrer, Chief Operating Officer, said: “It was moment of immense pride to hear our name read out as the winner on the night. All of us are profoundly heartened to receive this further endorsement of our ‘All About Me’ care philosophy that focuses on what residents can do, not only what they need support with. This empowers choice, nurtures independence and enables purposeful lives.” As well as the group-wide win, four Colten Care colleagues were finalists in separate individual categories. They were: Martin Corrigan, Home Manager at The Aldbury in Poole, for the Dementia Home Manager award; Angela Dibble, Group Housekeeper, for Care Housekeeper; Daniela Buzatu, Senior Nurse at Belmore Lodge in Lymington, for Care Registered Nurse; and Jackie Cash, Home Manager at Braemar Lodge in Salisbury, for Home Manager. While this was the first year Colten Care has won a company award at the National Care Awards, Lorna Parsons, then a Chef at the provider’s Bourne View in Poole, was named Chef of the Year at the 2022 awards. Lorna has since been promoted to group-wide Development Chef. The National Care Awards 2025 ceremony and dinner took place at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London, hosted by comedian and broadcaster Sue Perkins. AND THE WINNER IS … Colten Care colleagues at the National Care Awards in London. The care home provider won the award for Care Home Group (Medium), for groups with between 20 and 40 homes.
- Audiologist’s Open Day Gives Clear Message Of Support
“Suddenly I could hear the birds and that made me cry because I'd not heard one before. It is the most beautiful sound.” – Jane Harrison, Hearing Dogs For The Deaf When a hearing specialist opened her doors to the public for a special Open Day – her message was loud and clear. . . Brazilian entrepreneur Carolina Leal was keen to dispel the myths around hearing aids as part of the event, which marked the second anniversary of The Audiology Expert in Leamington. The celebration also welcomed three very different guests of honour – the Mayor of Leamington, Councillor Ruggy Singh, alongside Robyn the Labrador and her owner Jane Harrison, of national charity Hearing Dogs For Deaf People, which also benefited from fundraising on the day. Jane, who has been provided with two dogs by the charity over 17 years, now dedicates her time as a volunteer fundraiser and advocate for them. She is also a recent convert to hearing aids again - after 33 years! Born with sensorineural hearing loss, she was only formally diagnosed as deaf at the age of eight, when a teacher raised the alarm. She recalls: “I think I learned to adapt but I missed a lot. I've been told since I was oblivious to everything. But I didn’t get on with analogue hearing aids when I was young because, in the 60s, they were big and unattractive, a sort of one-size-fits-all approach." “So I dispensed with them when I was 13 and it was only at the age of 50 I started wearing them again because I’d had an accident at work. But they were so much improved and I was over the moon. Suddenly I could hear the birds and that made me cry because I'd not heard one before. It is the most beautiful sound.” Established in 1982, Hearing Dogs charity sets out to rebuild connection, companionship, and confidence to transform the lives of people who are deaf or have hearing loss. The dogs are trained to alert deaf people to important, often life-saving, sounds such as smoke and fire alarms, intruder alarms, the alarm clock and even baby monitors. Hearing Dogs wear burgundy jackets when out in public, which brings a visibility to a largely invisible disability. This can often spark conversation, helping deaf people reconnect with other people and the world around them. Jane, from Meriden, added: “The charity has also made a huge difference to my life. I’m much more confident now and Robyn is a big emotional support. She goes everywhere with me. I’d be lost without her.” Carolina Leal, who moved to the UK when she was 23, was also keen the event acted as a ‘thank you’ to the community she now calls home – as well as a spotlight on the charity. She said: “I was truly delighted to host the Open Day here at the Audiology Expert. It was a valuable opportunity to raise awareness about hearing health, challenge misconceptions surrounding hearing loss, and help the community better understand the importance of early intervention and support.” With impressive career credentials spanning over 18 years, Carolina’s thirst for professional knowledge has helped shape the next generation of audiologists through her experience in both teaching and overseeing national studies, some of which have even led to policy change. As an active member of the British Society of Audiology, she has written national guidance protocols as well as conducting UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) assessments and numerous consultancy roles. Years of practising and teaching experience eventually led her to Keyla De Magalhaes, who supported Carolina’s ambitions to emulate the success of her The Audiology Expert business model in Suffolk. Councillor Ruggy Singh said: “The Open Day has acted as an important reminder that we should take care of our hearing. I think people are put off by the idea of wearing hearing aids, but, after what I’ve seen, I don't think they realise how small and discreet they are these days. Most of them are hardly noticeable. It is also vitally important that we continue to support these charities that help raise funds and awareness.” The Audiology Expert offers everything from full hearing assessments to ear wax removal and hearing aid fittings. Carolina said: “There is a lot of stigma around wearing hearing aids. Technology has come a long way in how soon we can diagnose problems before it affects speech and language development. There are a lot of people for whom hearing aids change the quality of their life completely, so I find that hugely rewarding. It's that joy of reintroducing them to things that they didn't even realise they were missing before. It can feel like you’re giving them their life back.” Visit The Audiologyexpert here . Visit the Hearing Dogs here .
- Cumbrian Culinary Academy Recruits Two New Trainee Chefs
Two apprentice chefs have joined a Cumbrian hotel group’s specialist training academy. Natasha Bull, who has moved up to the Lake District from Derbyshire to work, and Alice Metcalfe from Kendal are the latest recruits to train under the English Lakes Hotels Culinary Academy. In partnership with Kendal College, the training academy offers an apprenticeship for the students to attain Level 2 Commis Chef and Level 3 Chef de Partie qualifications, as well as earning a living with hands on, practical experience in a restaurant kitchen. Both Natasha and Alice will be learning their trade to cook up a successful career path in the busy kitchen at Wild Boar Estate near Windermere. Established in 2017, the English Lakes Hotels Culinary Academy offers fully accredited courses to train budding chefs whilst they earn a wage with the hotel group. Both apprentices will be working under the tutelage of group training and development chef Daniel Winstanley, who is an appointed member of The Master Chefs of Great Britain. A cookery class in Thailand whilst she travelled the world was one of the reasons 20-year-old Natasha cites for pursuing a career in the hospitality industry. So she undertook a bit of research and decided to apply to the academy and begin a new working life in the Lake District. “I started looking online at how to train to be a chef and what qualifications were needed,” explains Natasha: “The one which really stood out with a specific career pathway was the English Lakes Hotels Culinary Academy.” 17-year-old Alice left Dallam School in Kendal over the summer and had heard about the academy from Kendal College. She is a keen member of the local Young Farmers club and competes at local agricultural shows and public speaking events. Daniel Winstanley from English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues adds: “We’re thrilled to welcome Natasha and Alice to the Culinary Academy. They’ve already settled brilliantly into their kitchen brigade at Wild Boar Estate, showing great enthusiasm and teamwork." “We’re especially excited to have them involved in our live cooking tent at the Lancaster University Christmas markets, where they’ll be showcasing their skills and exploring the diverse food cultures on offer.” For further information about the English Lakes Hotels Culinary Academy, visit here.
- DMH Stallard Advises On Sale Of Benyfit Natural
DMH Stallard has advised the Real Pet Food Company on the sale of its UK subsidiary Benyfit Natural to Finnish family-owned food group Snellman. Benyfit Natural produces premium raw dog food at its factory in East Grinstead, East Sussex. Acquired by the Real Pet Food Company in 2018, Benyfit Natural has built a strong reputation for high-quality, nutritionally balanced meals for pets. The Real Pet Food Company, headquartered in Australia, is a leading presence in the pet food sector with a portfolio of brands that champion health and wellbeing for pets. Jonathan Grant led the transaction, with Kay Miles Senior Associate and Beth Obara Solicitor. Jonathan said: “We are delighted to have supported the Real Pet Food Company in this transaction, which demonstrates the development of Benyfit brand under RPFC’s ownership, and the increasing global appetite for premium, natural pet food." “We enjoyed working with the team at Real Pet Food Company; completing the deal in a month from heads of terms required focus and teamwork.” The acquisition by Snellman underscores the growing demand for natural and sustainable pet food products across Europe and reflects the company’s confidence in the UK market. Sarah Wall, General Counsel, Real Pet Food Company said: “Working with DMH Stallard was a very positive experience. Their pragmatic approach, ability to work under pressure, and commitment to meeting a tight timeframe were invaluable. They coordinated seamlessly across multiple cross-functional teams, ensuring alignment and efficiency throughout the process. The team was helpful and insightful, which made what could have been a stressful transaction much smoother.”











