How does it feel a month on from winning the award?
To be recognised as ‘Drinks Producer of the Year’ in such a strong category here in Wales at the Awards was a huge honour and it still feels incredible. The category was very strong, and we were ecstatic to have been shortlisted. Winning is still sinking in – it will probably take a bit of time for us to fully absorb it – but for now we’re enjoying telling anyone who will listen that we won!
What is one piece of advice would you give to any aspiring business owner?
If you haven’t started your business – just go for it. Ask for advice – people can only say ‘no’ – and in most cases they will probably say ‘yes’ and be really helpful. The food and drink industry in Wales is a very positive community and we’ve found huge support from other businesses.
How do you strive to make a difference in the Wales Food and Drink market?
W’re always looking to see what we can do differently and better to expand the offering, not just doing more of the same. There’s huge potential here and we’re always striving to make the most of that.
What do you see as the biggest challenge for the sector?
The biggest challenge tends to shift from week to week (or even day to day) and even then it’s hard to pull out one as the ‘biggest’ challenge – for us it’s a shifting combination of circumstances. I think general uncertainty and the cost of living crisis makes it trickier for more premium brands right now – understandably, people are taking more care over how they spend their money and cutting back on luxuries. More generally, infrastructure – road and transport links and warehousing – importing and exporting post-Brexit and recruitment are our main challenges, and I doubt we’re alone in the industry on these.
Who is your Food and Drink hero?
Honestly, Brian Jones of Castell Howell – he’s done so much for the industry, championing Welsh Food & Drink brands.
