There are two words on everyone’s lips right now: World. Heritage. After the momentous decision by UNESCO to grant this special status to the Lake District, there have been both positive and negative responses from the Cumbrian business community. Given the importance of the decision I spoke to a number of family businesses including Hawkshead Relish who I visited earlier this week. Maria Whitehead hopes for a positive impact for the whole of Cumbria, not just the Lake District.

I’m delighted to announce The Family Business Network will be working closely with Thomas Jardine & Co to ensure the future of food and drink-based family businesses in the region. Director Jacqui Jackson, herself a fourth-generation family business owner, has launched the Centre for Family Food Business, offering practical, hands-on support with ‘lived’ experience to help raise the profile of the sector. Great news!

It’s not all been Cumbria-centric however, I was delighted to hear that two Cumbrian family businesses were recognised at the E3 Awards in Bolton recently. Nanny Brow picked up the title of best Family Business and Joanne Hunter of the iconic Cumbrian business Grasmere Gingerbread was presented the prestigious Special Achievement Award. Brilliant news for family businesses of our county.

I’m delighted to announce that Cumbria will soon be hosting other award-winning family businesses from over the border at The Family Business Conference on October 19. Award-winning HMG Paints from Manchester will be talking about their family business story – not to be missed! You can book tickets online at www.trybooking.co.uk/CAZ ticket price is £38. With Robinsons Brewery, Story Homes and many more it’s the highlight of the family business calendar, get your tickets booked today!

Sue Coulson, founder of The Family Business Network for Cumbria, Lancashire and Yorkshire, Regional Partner for national network Family Business United and Director of Coulson Associates.

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