logo
Double Awards Win at Top Food and Drink Ceremony Highlights Years of Commitment

Double Awards Win at Top Food and Drink Ceremony Highlights Years of Commitment

Rhug Estate won the Sustainable Values prize at the fifth Wales Food and Drink Awards.
The 12,500-acre organic farm estate, near Corwen in Denbighshire, has been a driver of progressive environmental practices for decades, and for that to be recognised with such accolades is 'a huge honour' said owner Lord Newborough, who was named Entrepreneur of the Year at the ceremony, held at Venue Cymru in Llandudno.
Discussing this success and Rhug's long-standing reputation with journalist and presenter Sian Lloyd – co-founder of the awards – he thanked the many people who have supported the business and its vision to produce globally-renowned meats and produce, in addition to the award-winning Rhug Wild Beauty range.
'We were thrilled to win these awards, which reflect the many years of commitment we have towards sustainable farming and providing customers with first class products and customer service,' said Lord Newborough.
'Being recognised is always encouraging, but what's most important to us is the strong culture and values our team has. We work hard to be a leading example of best practices in our industry and to be at the forefront of sustainability.
'This recognition motivates our team even more and shows we're making a positive impact not just in North Wales, but around the world.'
He added:
'One of the biggest moves we will make in the months ahead is a further push towards digital and diversification, as we increase our range of suppliers and stockists nationwide, notably in London.
'There will be particular focus on the meat products and Rhug Wild Beauty collection where we have seen so much growth.'
Sian lauded the Estate for its innovative reputation and Lord Newborough for the 'passion and drive' which helped secure the awards, which showcase the 'very best of Wales' and champion companies of all sizes in the food and drink arena.
'What really struck the judges was the relentless pursuit of new opportunities and delivering on that,' she added.
'That is inspiring to other entrepreneurs, it is such a wonderful story people can follow and support on so many levels as the business has been a pioneer for others in the sector.'
Lord Newborough – a former winner at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards – responded:
'If you are doing something you believe in then it's easy. Organic farming comes from the heart; you can't approach it any other way.
'The best thing we ever did is embrace our identity and stay true to it, a move which has seen Rhug become a global brand.
'You have to believe in what you do and be brave, which we have for many years, and plan to for many more.'
Rhug Estate holds a prestigious Royal Warrant of Appointment from His Majesty The King – one of just seven businesses in Wales to do so.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Conwy council conducts official investigation over 'inaccurate' Llandudno library figures
Conwy council conducts official investigation over 'inaccurate' Llandudno library figures

North Wales Live

timea day ago

  • North Wales Live

Conwy council conducts official investigation over 'inaccurate' Llandudno library figures

Conwy is conducting an official investigation after '£126K savings' presented to back the closure of Llandudno 's Mostyn Street library were labelled inaccurate. At a special meeting on Wednesday, Conwy 's head of finance claimed closing Llandudno's library and moving the service to Venue Cymru would save £126K a year. Head of finance Ms Amanda Hughes had claimed Conwy was paying around £46,000 a year in electricity bills to Npower at the current site – a sum referenced as a future saving if the move went ahead. But this was before Cllr Louise Emery produced a letterheaded bill at the Coed Pella scrutiny committee. Cllr Emery said Conwy only owed 38% of the £46,000. This was, Cllr Emery claimed, because the rest was legally payable by other tenants of the library building's owners Mostyn Estates, who occupied other floors. But part of Conwy's argument for moving was the £126K-a-year saving, which was included in a report presented to strengthen the council's case. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox. This led to Ms Hughes revealing she was 'concerned', 'disappointed', and 'dismayed' as she was only now aware Conwy had paid the full £46,000 on behalf of the whole building, throwing the '£126K' savings into doubt. The figures being questioned also led to Cllr Emery raising doubts that other savings could be incorrect. The Local Democracy Reporting Service asked the council to clarify the situation and if the authority had recovered payments it had made on behalf of Mostyn Estates' tenants. A spokeswoman for Conwy County Council commented: 'Strategic director of finance and resources is investigating the issues raised at economy and place scrutiny committee on Wednesday so that the details can be clarified before cabinet consider the report on Tuesday.' As the statement suggests, Conwy's cabinet is expected to vote in favour of the Mostyn Street library's closure on Tuesday, with the service moving to Venue Cymru as part of a UK Government-funded £10m 'arts centre' revamp. Cllr Emery, who raised the issue - as well as fears about a lack of a business plan for the revamp of the theatre - said she had serious concerns. 'I'm glad they are taking my concerns seriously with the information that I had on Wednesday, and it is good to see they are doing an investigation, but I'm quite surprised that they needed to do that considering the chief financial officer said the information she had was accurate,' she said. 'I'm very concerned that the costs, which they say are with the library, and particularly the new costs relating to moving the library, that they really don't have those drilled down in any sort of detail, and we really can't make a decision until we have exact costings of the move.' She added: 'I don't think they've (the council) got the figures right on the rates. I don't think they've got the figures right on the future maintenance of the building. I think we are going into this blind, and I'm really concerned about the cost of moving the library and the ongoing costs if it does go into Venue Cymru.' Mostyn Estates wouldn't comment on the situation regarding the £46,000 electricity bill but did raise fears that moving the library would affect footfall on the high street. Jon Merrick is the business development manager for Mostyn Estates. 'We are unable to comment on any matters regarding a tenant/landlord arrangement at the current library in Mostyn Street, but our position on the proposed move of the library to Venue Cymru is that we are opposed to this suggestion,' he said. 'We are totally supportive of Venue Cymru and their efforts to upgrade and refurbish the building. We believe Venue Cymru has a strong and positive story to tell, that they should aim to base their business plan for the grant funding solely on the theatre, arts, and conferencing rather than bringing in key services such as the library and Tourism Information Centre, which alienates a large proportion of local businesses and community, as well as jeopardising the town centre by removing a 200,000 footfall from Mostyn Street. This is not helpful to small independent businesses trading on the high street.' The results of a public consultation conducted by Conwy revealed 76% of 999 residents were worried about access to the new library service at Venue Cymru. A petition of around 1,100 signatures also backed a campaign to keep the library at its current location. Conwy's leader Cllr Charlie McCoubrey was unavailable for comment. Conwy's cabinet is set to vote on Tuesday 8 July.

A Powerful End to the Season for Cardiff Business Club with Emyr Afan OBE
A Powerful End to the Season for Cardiff Business Club with Emyr Afan OBE

Business News Wales

time6 days ago

  • Business News Wales

A Powerful End to the Season for Cardiff Business Club with Emyr Afan OBE

The Cardiff Business Club brought its 2024/25 season to a close in spectacular fashion, hosting an inspiring and emotionally charged evening with Emyr Afan OBE, CEO of Afanti Media Ltd. Emyr captivated the audience with a deeply personal and motivating talk, sharing the story behind his success, the people who championed his journey, and his role in shaping Wales' media landscape. From humble beginnings to national acclaim, his narrative was both moving and empowering. Guests were taken on a reflective journey through the history of Afanti Media, with a heartfelt tribute to The Pop Factory in Porth, a cultural landmark that stirred fond memories for many in the room. The evening was a celebration not only of entrepreneurial triumph but of the Welsh creative spirit. The Club extended a sincere thank you to Emyr for delivering such a memorable finale to the season, a night that will long resonate with all in attendance. About Emyr Afan OBE As CEO of Afanti Media, Emyr Afan has left an indelible mark on the UK's television industry. His leadership has propelled Afanti to national prominence, with landmark shows such as The Pop Factory and The Jonathan Show redefining Welsh media. Recognised as Cardiff Business of the Year 2023, Entrepreneur of the Year 2024, and Most Influential CEO Wales (Media Production) 2024, Emyr's accolades reflect his commitment to creative excellence and business leadership. His journey, including the bold move to reacquire the business from Sky Studios and rebuild it with renewed energy, is a testament to his resilience and passion. With figures like Sir Tom Jones among Afanti's supporters, Emyr has not only led a business but a movement that has helped put Welsh media on the global stage. The Cardiff Business Club thanks all its members and guests for a fantastic season and looks forward to welcoming everyone back for the next series of events.

Double Awards Win at Top Food and Drink Ceremony Highlights Years of Commitment
Double Awards Win at Top Food and Drink Ceremony Highlights Years of Commitment

Business News Wales

time27-06-2025

  • Business News Wales

Double Awards Win at Top Food and Drink Ceremony Highlights Years of Commitment

Rhug Estate won the Sustainable Values prize at the fifth Wales Food and Drink Awards. The 12,500-acre organic farm estate, near Corwen in Denbighshire, has been a driver of progressive environmental practices for decades, and for that to be recognised with such accolades is 'a huge honour' said owner Lord Newborough, who was named Entrepreneur of the Year at the ceremony, held at Venue Cymru in Llandudno. Discussing this success and Rhug's long-standing reputation with journalist and presenter Sian Lloyd – co-founder of the awards – he thanked the many people who have supported the business and its vision to produce globally-renowned meats and produce, in addition to the award-winning Rhug Wild Beauty range. 'We were thrilled to win these awards, which reflect the many years of commitment we have towards sustainable farming and providing customers with first class products and customer service,' said Lord Newborough. 'Being recognised is always encouraging, but what's most important to us is the strong culture and values our team has. We work hard to be a leading example of best practices in our industry and to be at the forefront of sustainability. 'This recognition motivates our team even more and shows we're making a positive impact not just in North Wales, but around the world.' He added: 'One of the biggest moves we will make in the months ahead is a further push towards digital and diversification, as we increase our range of suppliers and stockists nationwide, notably in London. 'There will be particular focus on the meat products and Rhug Wild Beauty collection where we have seen so much growth.' Sian lauded the Estate for its innovative reputation and Lord Newborough for the 'passion and drive' which helped secure the awards, which showcase the 'very best of Wales' and champion companies of all sizes in the food and drink arena. 'What really struck the judges was the relentless pursuit of new opportunities and delivering on that,' she added. 'That is inspiring to other entrepreneurs, it is such a wonderful story people can follow and support on so many levels as the business has been a pioneer for others in the sector.' Lord Newborough – a former winner at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards – responded: 'If you are doing something you believe in then it's easy. Organic farming comes from the heart; you can't approach it any other way. 'The best thing we ever did is embrace our identity and stay true to it, a move which has seen Rhug become a global brand. 'You have to believe in what you do and be brave, which we have for many years, and plan to for many more.' Rhug Estate holds a prestigious Royal Warrant of Appointment from His Majesty The King – one of just seven businesses in Wales to do so.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store