Sheffield Hallam University has teamed up with Golf in Society and Sport for Confidence to develop a free guide to show how golf can be adapted to improve health and strength in older adults living with long-term conditions and those with barriers to physical activity. The Therapeutic Value of Golf guide has been produced following a year-long programme exploring how tailored golfing interventions, delivered by specialist coaches, occupational therapists and physiotherapists, can improve health and strength in those who are living with age-related conditions including dementia and Parkinson’s disease. As part of the programme, experts from Sheffield Hallam University’s Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre (AWRC) and Sport Industry Research Group led a 12-week research project to understand the benefits of golf for participants and caregivers through a series of participant surveys and health assessments. The research was funded through UK Research and Innovation’s (UKRI) Scaling Social Ventures competition, which supports social enterprises in developing products and services that tackle the impact of ageing. It identified multiple, encouraging benefits for caregivers and participants including physical improvements as well as an opportunity to engage in a meaningful activity outside of a normal clinical setting. Sue Young, a carer whose husband Arthur took part in the programme, said: “The programme was a great opportunity to meet and socialise with people in similar domestic situations." “Fun and laughter were always part of the sessions and encouraged by the coaches which made for a very relaxed atmosphere for everyone. There was also free access to professional support for both carers and loved ones which was generously given.” Dr Rachel Young, Principal Research Fellow at Sheffield Hallam University who led the programme evaluation, said: “Over 20 older adults living with progressive health conditions engaged with the programme. The data we collected from the participants and their caregivers reflected important benefits to mental and physical wellbeing achieved during the 12-week programme." “The opportunity to take part in a social and physical activity combined with access to clinical therapy enabled participants to make changes to their everyday routines and improve their quality of life. The guide is a fantastic resource which illustrates the value of the Golf in Society offer.” The guide is fully supported by Sport England and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists. Liz Fletcher, Occupational Therapist and System Partner Lead, Sport for Confidence, said: “This guide is the result of extensive collaboration, evaluations, and profound insight from people with lived experience." “Cultivated over numerous years, the guide draws upon Golf in Society's experience in facilitating golf sessions for individuals navigating cognitive decline, coupled with Sport for Confidence's expertise employing occupational therapists alongside sports coaches who use physical activity as a preventative tool to promote good health and wellbeing.” Golf in Society is a social enterprise that aims to transform the lives of ageing populations by reimagining and repurposing golf clubs as community-based outpatient clinics. It has been evidenced that for every £1 invested, the GiS programme delivers a return of £16.46 in social value. Download a free copy of the Therapeutic Value of Golf Guide.

Team members at a Surrey manufacturing firm have given back to the community through two volunteering days. Staff from various departments at filter maker Amazon Filters were in Farnborough to revitalise a patch of ground at Guillemont Junior School which will become part of a sensory garden designed to support children living with autism. Colleagues also carried out a day’s grounds maintenance at Reg’s Garden, a community space by the Farnborough North railway station. The days marked the latest volunteering opportunities co-ordinated through Amazon Filters’ HR team and volunteering partner CMPP, the Community Matters Partnership Project. Two of Amazon Filters’ welders spoke of their satisfaction in helping at Guillemont Juniors. Dariusz Geron said: “I really enjoyed the day and would love to do another one in future. It was great working as a team and seeing the change that we were making. It just made you want to work even harder.” Dan Wenderlish said: “It was a really great day, making a difference to the children by helping create their sensory garden. It was also great working with different people from the business who I had never met before.” There were similar sentiments expressed by those at Reg’s Garden. Dan O’Sullivan, Housing Production Manager, said: “The garden relies on volunteers to maintain and carry out essential upkeep. It’s a sanctuary for many people, offering a chance for students and locals alike to enjoy outside space, socialise and be together." “The volunteering was such a rewarding experience, all of us local and giving back to our community. Thank you to Amazon Filters for giving us this opportunity to contribute and put a smile on many people’s faces.” Chris Lambert, Senior Welder/Fabricator, said: “It was a really good productive day with a great bunch of lads.” Frimley-based Amazon Filters has been a business partner of CMPP for the past two years, providing 275 hours of hands-on voluntary work at different locations in 2023. They include the respite centre Frimhurst House, the Challengers play centre for disabled children in Guildford and the Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice in Farnborough. The firm aims to do even more this year, making 2024 a record year for company volunteering. Ruth Pappadakis, Head of People and Culture, who leads on the engagement with CMPP, said the work at Guillemont Juniors had particular significance for her. She said: “I absolutely love our volunteer days but this one felt a little more special as it was at my son’s school. Working with the team really made the day, and seeing the impact of what we achieved as well as the look on the children’s faces was amazing." “Some of the children were brought out with a couple of the teachers and they commented on how nice the space was looking. I have also since heard from a couple of the parents who have said what a difference it makes.” Founded in 1985, Amazon Filters is a manufacturer and supplier of filtration products that underpin essential processes around the world including municipal water treatment.

TL Dallas, one of the UK’s leading independent insurance broking and risk management companies, announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire Marsh Commercial’s business in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. Terms of the transaction, which is expected to close in August 2024, were not disclosed. TL Dallas is a fourth-generation family firm, owned by its management and staff and it has been in business for more than 100 years. It is one of the largest, and last remaining truly independent insurance broking firms in the UK, and has offices spanning the UK from Shetland to London. The company has a team of over 165 and provides a full range of commercial and personal insurance services including corporate, small to medium enterprises (SME), trade credit, demolition, farming and agricultural, health and care, books and collectables and private client. As part of the agreement, TL Dallas will acquire Marsh Commercial’s teams in Elgin, Inverness and Kirkwall, adding to its existing business in the Highlands and Islands. Polly Staveley, Group Managing Director, TL Dallas, said: “The acquisition of Marsh Commercial’s business in Elgin, Inverness and Kirkwall represents a significant milestone for TL Dallas, as we continue with our strategy to serve local businesses with local teams, whatever their size. We see this as a major growth region for our business.” Alistair Fraser, CEO, Commercial and Corporate, Marsh, added: “I am pleased that TL Dallas, with its strong presence in Scotland’s Highlands and Islands where it serves personal customers and SMEs, will be the new custodian of our offices there." "As the UK’s leading risk and insurance specialist serving SME clients in over 40 offices, Marsh Commercial will continue to serve SME clients in Scotland through its offices in Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Oban, and Perth.” TL Dallas first expanded into Scotland in 1993 when it opened an office in Shetland, drawing on its experience in the shipping and textile industries. In 2000, the company opened a second office in Falkirk, before expanding into both Glasgow and Edinburgh in 2011. Edinburgh is also the city where its founder, Thomas Lessels Dallas OBE (great-grandfather of managing director, Polly Staveley) started his business career in commercial shipping insurance, before founding TL Dallas in Bradford in 1919.

The Godalming High Street property that houses JD Wetherspoon, Fat Face and Snap Fitness has been bought by Queensbury Investments Ltd through property consultancy Vail Williams, which also manages the building. A prominent building at the heart of Surrey market town Godalming has been sold off-market for £2.52 million. Property consultancy Vail Williams, acting on behalf of a private client, sourced a purchaser for 48-56 High Street. Queensbury Investments Ltd is the new owner of the property, which is let to pub chain JD Wetherspoon, operating as the Jack Phillips, which is named after a local man who was the heroic radio officer on the ill-fated Titanic. Hampshire-based clothing firm Fat Face and 24-hour opening gym Snap Fitness are the other tenants. The building generates £265,431 per annum in rent, representing a net initial yield of 9.9% for the purchaser. Vail Williams Senior Surveyor Ben Duly and Associate Ed Martin worked closely with their client in bringing the deal to a successful conclusion. Ben, based at the firm’s office in Bournemouth, said: “We were instructed to dispose of the property. After speaking to a number of parties we felt might be interested in the off-market opportunity, a competitive bidding process was held and the property sold to the highest bidder." “The result was a great deal for both vendor and purchaser. At a time when retail investments can still be reasonably tricky, it demonstrates yet again that investors remain confident in retail bricks and mortar.” Vail Williams has managed the building for a number of years through Ed, working out of the Southampton office, who is being retained by Queensbury Investments. He said: “We are delighted to be retained by the purchaser. As property manager, we maintain the common parts, inspect them frequently and deal with issues identified." “We also deal with the service charge management, which includes budgeting for expenditure and annual service charge reconciliations in accordance with the RICS. Because we have built up a good relationship with the tenants it helps obtain a steer on how their businesses are performing." “We take a collaborative approach with the client and the tenants to ensure we deliver the best possible service and take overall responsibility for the building.” Vail Williams’ 31 property asset managers look after almost 400 properties across the UK, with a rent roll of £44 million-plus. Queensbury Investments Director Ross Kemp said: “ We are grateful to Vail Williams for approaching us regarding this off-market opportunity as they knew we had other assets in the town. It complements our commercial property portfolio in the immediate vicinity.” Law firm Penningtons Manches Cooper acted for the vendor while TWM Solicitors represented the purchaser. Vail Williams’ full-service property advice includes commercial agency, investment and development advice, building consultancy, property valuation, planning, lease advisory, property asset management, business rates and occupier consultancy.

The Royal Mint has signed an exclusive distribution deal to grow its commemorative coin business in the US. The deal with the Rare Coin Company of America (RARCOA) is projected to turnover £100m over the next three years. Since 2022, The Royal Mint has seen a 118% increase in the number of US customers, highlighting the popularity of British coins amongst US collectors. More than 17,000 1oz silver commemorative coins have been purchased by US based customers over last two years, with Royalty coins and series depicting Star Wars and Harry Potter proving particularly popular. Founded in Chicago in 1962, RARCOA is one of the largest importers and distributors of gold coins from around the world, with a customer base spanning the US, Europe, and Asia. The new partnership will see The Royal Mint further expand into the US coin collecting market with its tailored, UK-made, commemorative coin products. Rebecca Morgan, Director of Commemorative Coin at The Royal Mint, said: “From Royalty to Harry Potter, our coins celebrate the milestone moments and cultural icons that make Britain famous around the world. All our coin collections are made in the UK and British Craftsmanship continues to have strong appeal internationally." “Recent collections celebrating the Coronation, Star Wars and Liberty and Britannia have seen increased demand from US collectors and we expect this to grow over coming years. Our new partnership with RARCOA will make it even easier for US customers to own a piece of British history from The Royal Mint.” Wayde Milas, President of RARCOA, said: “As one of the leading rare coin companies in the United States, RARCOA is excited, eager and proud to be the exclusive US distributor of The Royal Mint’s commemorative coins. We’re thrilled to be working with Britain’s oldest company and the original maker of UK coins, and to share this rich heritage with our customers across the US, Europe and Asia.” The Royal Mint’s rich history, combined with RARCOA’s distribution capability and US market knowledge formed a perfect fit for RARCOA to become the exclusive US distributor for commemorative coins. The deal does not include Bullion, Collector Services, or any other business area. Over the last three years, the commemorative coin division has acquired over 400,000 new customers.

Nottingham-based construction specialists, Clegg Group, has partnered with Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust as part of its commitment to the environment and sustainability, making nature part of its business with mutual benefits to both parties. Clegg Group is proud to announce that it has become a Business Partner of the charity, which is the leading wildlife conservation charity working to protect and enhance the wildlife and habitats of Nottinghamshire. Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, based at the Old Ragged School in Brook Street, Nottingham, has charitable aims to protect Nottinghamshire’s wildlife, restore biodiversity, and inspire people about the natural world. One of their goals is for at least 30% of land to be connected and protected for nature’s recovery by 2030. The charity states that 30% is the bare minimum that nature needs to start recovering and that we are far short of this currently. The sponsorship for the partnership has come from Clegg Group’s Charity Fund – used to support local worthy causes and aligns with the Group’s aim of promoting environmental sustainability, protecting wildlife, and promoting health and well-being. Mark Hyde, business development manager at Clegg Construction, which is part of Clegg Group, and is also a trustee of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, said: “One of the Trust’s aims is to inspire at least one in four people in Nottinghamshire to take action for wildlife, at home, at work, at school or in their neighbourhood. We are delighted that Clegg Group has become a Business Partner of the Trust, helping to raise awareness of the Trust and its aims, and to offer support for the charity." “Clegg Group is a Nottingham-based company, working in the county as well as further afield, and many of our team also live here. As such, we’re keen to do our bit to help protect nature and our local environment, as well as support important good causes like Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust. Being a trustee of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust is a privilege and something I enjoy, and I am very pleased that Clegg Group is also now getting involved formally to support this very worthwhile charity.” As part of the partnership with Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, there will be opportunities for Clegg Group staff to get involved in various initiatives around environmental sustainability, protecting wildlife and health and well-being promotion. Making nature part of your business and connecting staff to nature and wildlife can support to inspire them and their families to make a real difference to the natural world and bring about a Wilder Nottinghamshire. Evidence shows that people experiencing a thriving, wildlife-rich environment benefits both their physical and mental health, and that with nature on their doorstep people are more active, mentally resilient and have better all-round health. Emily Patrick, Business Partnerships Lead at Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, commented: “We are thrilled to have the support of local businesses like Clegg Group who want to see change in Nottinghamshire. Without the support of our business partners, volunteers and members we wouldn’t be able to make the impact we do for wildlife.” June brings a great opportunity for any business, community or individual to take part in 30 Days Wild, The Wildlife Trusts' annual challenge event, where everyone involved does one wild thing a day throughout the month of June. For further information about Business Partnerships, go online or contact Emily Patrick, Business Partnership Lead at Epatrick@nottswt.co.uk

Barclays is issuing a warning to fans on the hunt for tickets to the summer’s most in-demand sporting and entertainment events, as the Bank’s data shows that reports of purchase scams peaked in July last year. Purchase scams often take place when scammers list fake or non-existent items for sale on social media and online marketplaces. Online ticket fraud is a rising form of purchase scam, where scammers take advantage of fans’ eagerness to attend major, sometimes sold out, events, targeting them with fake tickets. Key Findings: Ticket scams cost victims an average of £243 each – with men losing more than twice as much as women, at £325 vs £156 For those who encountered a sports-related ticket scam, half were attempting to buy tickets for football matches Purchase scam reports increased year-on-year in 2023, with the volume of claims peaking in July and the value peaking in August Barclays Digital Safety Expert, Kirsty Adams, offers advice to help sports fans keep their money safe and avoid ticketing scams ahead of this summer’s most sought after events Barclays research shows that the average ticket scam victim loses £243. Men lose more than twice as much as women on average, at £325 in comparison to £156. The research suggests this is driven by ticket prices, with men paying more for scam tickets, as both men and women are equally likely to encounter a ticket scam. The research also revealed that 82 per cent of Brits do not conduct additional background checks to ensure sites are genuine before purchasing a ticket. With scammers likely to be looking to take advantage of fans keen to get their hands on tickets to sold out events this summer, Barclays is reminding everyone to remain vigilant and always take the time to check that the ticket being purchased is genuine and from a reputable seller. Half (53 per cent) of those who have been targeted by a sports ticket scam said they had been contacted about, or saw an ad for fake football tickets. Tennis and cricket were the next most cited sports, at 18 per cent and 17 per cent respectively, followed by horse racing and athletics (both 16 per cent). While 57 per cent of Brits are concerned about the rising cost of event tickets, even if presented with a good deal, it’s vital to ensure that any tickets purchased are legitimate and being sold on a trusted platform. Barclays data suggests the risk of encountering a ticket scam is higher in the summer, when many of the UK’s main events take place. The volume of purchase scam claims peaked in July last year, accounting for 9.5 per cent of the total number of reports, while the value peaked in August, representing 12.0 per cent of the year’s total. Kirsty Adams, Fraud & Scams Expert at Barclays said: “Where there’s a popular ticketed event, there’s always a scammer looking to take advantage of that demand. Unfortunately it can be easy to get caught up in a ticket scam when you’re desperate to try and secure a ticket to an oversubscribed event." “It can be devastating for sports fans to hand over their hard-earned money for a ticket to see their favourite team or event, only to discover it doesn’t actually exist. We want to spare fans any heartache this summer and urge everyone to take a moment to really stop and think, and check the site or individual they are purchasing tickets from. As the old adage goes, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.” Jonathan Brown, Chief Executive of the Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers (STAR), said: “With so many great events happening throughout the UK this summer there are, sadly, ruthless fraudsters waiting to ride on the back of public excitement by ripping-off ticket buyers. Consumers can help avoid disappointment and loss by following Barclays advice about how to buy tickets safely and taking the right steps to defend themselves from fraud." ”Whenever possible, purchase your tickets through a member of STAR as you are then buying from an authorised ticket supplier signed up to our strict code of practice. While we hope you never have to use it, this also gets you access to our approved Alternative Dispute Resolution service. Look for the STAR logo or check our website for a list of members www.star.org.uk .” To help fans get a slice of the sporting action safely this summer, Kirsty Adams, Fraud & Scams Expert at Barclays shares her top tips for avoiding scams when buying tickets for events. Do your due diligence : Research and read reviews to check if the site is secure and has a valid certificate. Investigate if the seller of the tickets is genuine, and double check the event’s website to see if tickets can be resold or transferred. Our research showed that the vast majority of people do not do additional background checks when purchasing a ticket, and this is what scammers are banking on. Taking that extra couple of seconds could save you money and heartache in the long run. Get a second opinion : Always speak to someone you trust for a second opinion before you buy a ticket to a sports game. Whether that’s asking a friend if they have used a site before, seeing if they have heard of the person you’re buying from, or checking whether a resale site is reputable, before committing to the tickets. Be wary of unlikely offers : Many purchase scams offer huge discounts that you wouldn’t normally find at trusted and reputable ticket sites. Remember, if a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Stop and question why any legitimate seller would offer cheap tickets to an event or match when others are still going for the original price. Check the seller’s website and be wary of anyone asking for a bank transfer rather than a debit or credit card transaction, as legitimate sellers don’t usually do this. Pay with a secure method : If you are buying tickets, ensure you are doing what you can to protect the payment. Paying with a credit card, as opposed to a bank transfer or another method, means you are protected if something goes wrong. This gives you an extra safety net if your tickets don’t arrive.

Nescafé is introducing the first paper refill pack for Nescafé Gold Blend that can be easily recycled through kerbside collection. This innovative paper refill pack reduces packaging weight by a remarkable 97 percent compared to the traditional 200g glass coffee jars. Designed with convenience in mind, the paper packs can be used to refill the glass jar and give it a longer life, all whilst providing the same great taste and iconic rich aroma that Nescafé fans know and love. Once the refill pack is empty, it can be easily recycled through kerbside collection. Ingrid Hayes, Marketing Director of Nescafé Soluble Coffee at Nestlé UK & Ireland, said: "We are thrilled to introduce Nescafé's first paper refill pack representing a positive step towards our sustainability goals." “Nescafé is dedicated to driving positive change and offering more sustainable choices whilst offering the same great coffee and the iconic rich aroma that people love." The new 150g paper refill packs will be available exclusively at Tesco. The launch builds upon Nescafé’s earlier success with the introduction of recyclable in-store refill pouches in 2022, demonstrating the brand’s ongoing commitment to sustainable packaging and to Nestlé’s goal to reduce its use of virgin plastic by one third by 2025. In addition to improving the sustainability of its packaging, Nescafé is striving to make coffee farming more sustainable. All coffee used in Nescafé products made in the UK is 100% responsibly sourced, ensuring that every cup of Nescafé coffee can help make a difference.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising industries worldwide, and family businesses are no exception. Often characterised by deep-rooted traditions and long-term perspectives, family businesses can leverage AI to enhance their operations, drive growth, and secure their legacy for future generations. Here’s a closer look at how AI can benefit and create opportunities within a family business. 1. Streamlining Operations One of the most immediate benefits of AI is its ability to automate routine tasks, freeing up valuable time for family members to focus on strategic initiatives. AI-driven tools can handle tasks such as stock management, payroll processing, and customer service inquiries, reducing the burden on staff and minimising human error. For example, a family-owned retail business can use AI to manage stock levels more efficiently, ensuring products are available when customers need them without overstocking which will have an immediate impact on working capital too. 2. Enhanced Decision-Making AI’s data analytics capabilities can provide family businesses with deeper insights into market trends, customer behaviours, and operational efficiencies. By analysing large datasets quickly and accurately, AI can help businesses make informed decisions. For instance, a family-run restaurant can use AI to analyse customer feedback and sales data, allowing them to refine their menu and marketing strategies to better meet customer preferences. 3. Personalised Customer Experiences In an era where customer experience is paramount, AI enables family businesses to offer personalised services that can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. AI algorithms can analyse customer data to provide personalised product recommendations, tailor marketing messages, and even predict future buying behaviours. A family-owned e-commerce business, for example, can use AI to personalise the shopping experience for each customer, increasing engagement and sales and suggest products that other shoppers have purchased to boost conversion and add-on sales. 4. Cost Reduction And Efficiency AI can help family businesses reduce costs by optimising various aspects of their operations. Predictive maintenance powered by AI can forecast equipment failures and schedule timely maintenance, thereby preventing costly downtime. Additionally, AI-driven supply chain management can enhance efficiency by optimising routes, reducing transportation costs, and improving supplier negotiations. 5. Innovation And Competitive Edge AI fosters innovation by providing family businesses with the tools to develop new products and services. By leveraging AI for research and development, businesses can identify gaps in the market, test new ideas rapidly, and bring innovative solutions to market faster. This can be particularly advantageous for family businesses looking to stay competitive in a rapidly changing market landscape. 6. Risk Management AI can enhance risk management by identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities in real-time. Family businesses can use AI to monitor financial transactions for fraud, assess credit risks, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. By proactively managing risks, businesses can protect their assets and reputation. "For family businesses, AI is not just a technological advancement but a strategic ally that can help navigate the complexities of modern business." "By embracing AI, family businesses can enhance their operational efficiency, make data-driven decisions, offer personalised customer experiences, and drive innovation." "As AI continues to evolve, it presents an unprecedented opportunity for family businesses to secure their legacy and thrive in the competitive business landscape."

In today's digital age, social media is an indispensable tool for businesses of all sizes. For family-owned businesses, leveraging these platforms can be particularly beneficial. They provide a cost-effective way to connect with customers, build brand loyalty, and expand your reach. Here’s how you can make the most of social media for your family business, along with essential tips for success. 1. Choose The Right Platforms Not all social media platforms are created equal, and each one serves different purposes. Focus on the platforms where your target audience spends most of their time. For instance: Facebook: Great for community engagement and sharing detailed updates. Instagram: Ideal for visually-driven businesses, such as those in retail, food, or lifestyle sectors. LinkedIn: Perfect for B2B businesses or those looking to connect with other professionals. X (formerly known as Twitter): Useful for real-time updates and customer service. 2. Create A Consistent Brand Voice Your brand voice should reflect your family business’s values and personality. Whether it’s warm and friendly, professional, or quirky, maintaining consistency across all platforms is key. This helps in creating a recognisable and trustworthy brand. 3. Share Your Story People love stories, and your family business likely has a rich history or unique founding tale. Share your story to connect with your audience on a personal level and build the narrative into your social media messages as this will help to build trust and differentiate your business from the non-family owned business community. Ways that you can do this could include: Sharing details of the history and the origins of your business. Recognise and celebrate milestones and achievements. Behind-the-scenes glimpses of what you do and the team engaged in doing it. 4. Engage With Your Audience Social media is not just a broadcasting tool but a platform for two-way communication and it is at its most powerful when you fully engage in dialogue. Engage with your followers by: Responding to comments and messages promptly. Asking for feedback and suggestions. Creating interactive content like polls, Q&A sessions, and contests. Follow your customers and like, share and comment on their posts. 5. Post Regularly But Strategically Consistency is crucial, but so is quality over quantity. Develop a content calendar to plan your posts and ensure you’re posting regularly. Use analytics tools provided by the platforms to determine the best times to post and the types of content that resonate most with your audience and then post accordingly. 6. Utilise Visual Content Visual content tends to perform better on social media. Use high-quality images and videos to showcase your products, services, and family moments. There are plenty of tools available that can help you create visually appealing posts even if you don’t have a graphic design background. 7. Leverage User-Generated Content Encourage your customers to share their experiences with your products or services on social media. Reposting user-generated content not only provides social proof but also fosters a sense of community. Create branded hashtags to make it easier for customers to share and for you to find these posts. 8. Run Social Media Campaigns And Promotions Special promotions and social media-exclusive deals can drive engagement and sales. Consider running: Holiday or seasonal promotions. Giveaways and contests. Collaborations with influencers or other local businesses. 9. Monitor And Adapt Regularly monitor your social media performance using analytics tools. Track metrics such as engagement rates, follower growth, and click-through rates. Use these insights to adapt your strategy and improve your content and therefore allow you to invest time and effort into developing content on the right platforms that provide the biggest impact. 10. Stay Authentic Authenticity is crucial on social media. Be genuine in your interactions and transparent in your communications. Show the human side of your business, and don’t be afraid to share challenges and how you overcome them. Authenticity builds trust and strengthens your relationship with your audience. "Social media offers a powerful way to grow and promote your family business. By choosing the right platforms, maintaining a consistent brand voice, engaging with your audience, and staying authentic, you can create a strong social media presence that drives both engagement and sales." "Remember, the key to success is not just in broadcasting your message, but in building meaningful connections with your audience."

A regional law firm has boosted its litigation credentials with the latest member of its team to gain the highest rights of audience in the English court system. Senior Associate Litigation Solicitor Conor Maher has become the third professional lawyer currently at Ellis Jones Solicitors to qualify and be formally admitted as a Solicitor Advocate by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. It means Conor, a specialist in Dispute Resolution and Regulatory Law, has the right to represent clients and appear in all courts in the land, from Magistrates’, County and Crown courts up to the High Court, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court. Solicitor Advocates are only appointed by the regulator if they can demonstrate experience and skills in oral and written advocacy as a qualified solicitor and pass an additional professional exam focused on evidence and ethics coupled with a rigorous practical advocacy assessment. Conor, who joined Ellis Jones in 2019, has immediately put his new rights of audience into practice with an appearance at the Central London Criminal Court at the Old Bailey in his new wig and gown. He won a complex and challenging case involving a private hire vehicle driver who was appealing against a Transport for London decision to revoke his licence. Conor said: “It was hugely satisfying to address the court with my new status and to go on to win that first case, especially given the august surroundings of addressing a Circuit Judge within the Old Bailey." “As well as granting the appeal, the court took the extremely rare step of ordering Transport for London to pay the entirety of the legal costs claimed by my client." “I’ve been an advocate in the Magistrates’ and County Courts for a few years, but being admitted as a Solicitor Advocate is further welcome recognition of the hard work you have to put in to hone your professional advocacy skills on behalf of clients.” Traditionally, the split in the English and Welsh legal profession between solicitors and barristers has meant they each have different rights of audience. Solicitors primarily engage with clients and can appear in lower courts, but when a matter needs to go to a higher court, they will instruct a barrister to conduct the litigation. The Legal Services Act 2007 introduced the status of Solicitor Advocate, creating a pathway for suitably qualified and skilled solicitors to gain the same rights of audience as a barrister. For firms such as Ellis Jones, it means clients benefit from getting to know their court representative right from the outset. At the same time, the Solicitor Advocate has the opportunity to frame arguments in the case having discussed facts and issues direct with the client. They not only advise the client and handle instructions but issue the proceedings and actively lead the evidence and court advocacy. “It’s a complete package of support,” said Conor. “I’m very proud to have gained rights of audience in the higher courts. It supports Ellis Jones’ case work by giving clients peace of mind that they can have a good, thorough working relationship with their court representative right from the off knowing we have the skills in-house to complete the litigation.” Conor joins two colleagues in the current Ellis Jones team, both Senior Associate Solicitors, who have previously become Solicitor Advocates. In the Dispute Resolution department, Daniel Flynn has higher rights of audience in the civil courts while, in the Criminal and Regulatory Department, James Constable holds the equivalent status for appearing in criminal courts. Under court dress protocols in England and Wales, Solicitor Advocates wear a gown, winged collar and bands, and may also wear a wig where it would otherwise be worn by a barrister.

George Bence & Sons Ltd have become one of the very few businesses in the world to make it to 170 years as a family business and are rightfully celebrating this milestone. Born in 1854, under the period of early Victorian Era, deliveries were made with horse and cart from the central location of Cheltenham Spa town, in the rather aptly named area of Mount Pleasant. To this day the business still operate their headquarters from the original site. Over 52,000 working days later, ‘Bences’ as they are affectuously known, have 8 branches, with 150 skilled and knowledgeable staff with an eclectic range of skills. They span from mixed merchants to high end kitchen & bathroom showrooms, stand alone roofing, decorating and plumbing centres to a supply and fit doors & windows business along with a thriving online bathrooms company. They are the largest independent supplier of building materials in the Cotswolds and hold a staff retention rate 4 times over the national average. Chris Bence, 5th generation and current Group Chairman commented; "As a multi-generation family business owner, I can look with much satisfaction at our company and family history and examine what we’ve done to stay relevant over the years." "The business has survived, and since thrived, through world wars, pandemics and multiple recessions. I feel so honoured and content that I have played a part in our current history and do not doubt that we will make 200 years under the next generations!" Paul Bence, 6th generation and current Group Managing Director commented; "Our family business is continuing to be a never ending journey and one that is ever evolving. It is the accumulation of great effort day after day eventually developing longevity, which then very much is the becoming of our tradition." "After 170 years we truly believe our customers are now increasingly aware of who they’re buying from and that they want to purchase from businesses that really care about their customers and their products. I feel that profit and sustainability aren’t mutually exclusive and the latter should always come before the former." "Unashamedly whenever I can, I use our status as a sixth generation family run business to differentiate us from the competition. I am extremely proud to have been given the opportunity to drive our special business into an 18th decade, leading product diversification through are international multi award winning little old building materials firm from Cheltenham Spa." Bence’s have plans to open two branches in the coming period together with a half a million pound renovation of their flagship kitchen & bathroom showroom, Obsidian Interiors, beginning in July. The Company put together this special video to honour their 170 years of service as a family business which sums up their journey to date beautifully.