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Barnsley-based cleaning innovation brand Vamoosh has been honoured with a King’s Award for Enterprise 2026 for International Trade, recognising what the company describes as a period of exceptional global expansion and export growth. Vamoosh is one of 185 organisations nationally to receive a King’s Award this year, with the winners announced today (Wednesday 6 May).
Founded in 2016, Vamoosh was developed by Cares Laboratory and launched its breakthrough Pet Hair Dissolver in 2017, designed to tackle the household problem of removing stubborn pet hair from fabrics in the wash.
The brand says the product is the world’s first and only of its kind, with patent protection in more than 30 countries, including the United Kingdom. Since then, Vamoosh has expanded into a wider range, including washing machine cleaners, fabric care solutions and other household products, and is now stocked in over 5,000 UK retail outlets across grocery, pet, DIY and value channels.
International trade has been a major driver of the company’s recent growth. Over the past 18 months, Vamoosh says its export partners have increased from four to 12 globally, with exports rising 440% over three years and products now sold in more than 30 countries, including Australia, Germany, South Africa, the Nordics and the USA. The company highlights retail listings including Target (USA), Aldi (Australia), EDEKA (Germany) and DM (across Europe), and says North America is expected to become its largest export market within three years following an initial launch in 600 Target stores.
Commenting on the award, founder Tom Abbey said:
“We’re absolutely delighted to receive the King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade. To see the growth of Vamoosh recognised in such a prestigious way is an honour for the whole team. Over the last few years, we’ve worked incredibly hard to grow the brand internationally, bringing our patented innovations to households around the world, so it’s fantastic to see those efforts recognised with the UK’s highest business award. This achievement is a real reflection of the passion, dedication and innovation across the entire Vamoosh team, and we’re excited for what the future holds.”
The King’s Awards for Enterprise (formerly The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise) were renamed in 2023. Now in its 60th year, the programme remains one of the UK’s most prestigious business accolades, with winners able to use the King’s Awards Emblem for the next five years.
Major acquisition brings E Jeffries Saddlery, Harry Dabbs, and Vale Brothers under one roof in traditional Walsall home
In a significant move for British equestrian manufacturing, Bliss of London has acquired the intellectual property, brand names, customer data, and design patterns for three of the most respected names in saddlery: E Jeffries Saddlery, Harry Dabbs, and Vale Brothers.
The acquisition, finalized late last week from Baaj Capitol, ensures these iconic brands will continue production in Walsall – maintaining their connection to the traditional heart of English saddle making.
Preserving Heritage in Challenging Times
The deal follows a turbulent period for the industry, with Vale Brothers entering administration in 2023 before its assets were acquired by JDS59 Ltd, part of the Baaj Capitol group. Bliss of London’s purchase now secures the brand identities and product heritage, representing a crucial lifeline for these historic names.
Nikki Newcombe, Managing Director of Bliss of London, expressed her enthusiasm for the acquisition: “This is a really exciting development for us and for the wider industry. These are iconic names with a rich legacy, and we are proud to bring them under the Bliss umbrella. We’re fully committed to preserving their heritage while offering the high standards of service and craftsmanship that Bliss is known for.”
Rebuilding Trust and Production
Acknowledging the challenges faced by saddle fitters and customers during the brands’ uncertain period, Newcombe outlined the company’s commitment to restoration: “We know there is work to do, but we’re confident that with our team and infrastructure, we can revive these brands and give them the future they deserve.”
The acquisition strategically excludes any trading liabilities or outstanding orders from previous ownership, allowing for a clean slate as production resumes under Bliss of London’s established Walsall operation.
Industry Collaboration and Growth
Bliss of London is actively reaching out to both existing and new saddle fitters, inviting them to explore future opportunities and collaboration as the brands are revitalized. This approach signals the company’s commitment to rebuilding the professional networks that these historic brands once supported.
The acquisition significantly strengthens Bliss of London’s portfolio, positioning the company as a major force in preserving and continuing Britain’s saddlery manufacturing heritage.
Important Clarifications
It’s worth noting that Jeffries Lifestyle Ltd, the holding company established during the 2023 Vale Brothers administration, continues to operate independently and retains ownership of the Thermatex and Griffin NuuMed brands.
The Bigger Picture
This acquisition represents more than just a business deal – it’s about preserving centuries of British craftsmanship and ensuring that these respected names continue to serve the equestrian community. With Walsall’s reputation as the traditional home of English saddle making, the decision to maintain production there honors both the brands’ heritage and the skilled craftspeople who have kept these traditions alive.
For saddle fitters and equestrians who have relied on these brands over the years, the news offers hope for renewed stability and the continuation of the quality and service these names have represented for generations.
Equine America UK, a leading British equine supplement company, has acquired Irish brand Horse First in a strategic business move aimed at expanding its product range and reinforcing its position in the international market.
Equine America also recently launched EA Nutra, a sister brand tailored to the European market and professional competition riders.
Strategic Impact of the Acquisition
The acquisition is expected to benefit both companies by combining Equine America’s clean-manufacturing infrastructure and international scale with Horse First’s potent product formulations and global customer base.
According to statements made by both companies in the announcement, the integration will strengthen distribution across the UK and Ireland and enhance access to sport-oriented supplements within Equine America’s already diverse range.
Equine America is expected to support Horse First’s international growth using its larger R&D, production, and regulatory framework, while maintaining both brands’ unique identities and commitments to quality and performance.
Outlook
This acquisition signals ongoing consolidation in the equine supplement market, with a growing emphasis on scientific validation, competition safety, and international growth. Equine America and Horse First together offer a more comprehensive product line to riders, trainers, and equine health professionals, especially those focused on high-level performance and welfare.
About Equine America UK
Established in 1997 and based in the UK, Equine America UK is a family-run business specialising in performance-led nutritional supplements for horses. Its products, including the widely recognised Cortaflex® range, are manufactured under rigorous quality controls with UFAS and BETA-NOPS certifications, ensuring suitability for Clean Sport competition. The company operates out of food-grade facilities and employs advanced ingredient testing such as laser fingerprinting.
Equine America also recently launched EA Nutra, a sister brand tailored to the European market and professional competition riders.
About Horse First
Founded in 2008 by former international showjumper Paddy Hughes, Horse First is headquartered in Northern Ireland and is known for its high-strength equine supplements, including Relax Me, B Well, and Hoof First. With a presence in over 30 countries, Horse First has built a strong reputation for effective, results-driven formulations, and was recognised in 2024 as “Exporter of the Year” at the Greater Newry Business Awards.
On 19January 24, Haygain Ltd went into administration and at that point, there was no indication whether the brand would be offered for sale. However, it now looks as if Haygain products could be back on the shelves, possibly by the end of this year, as the brand now has a new owner, who is reported to be “thrilled” by the procurement.
Farm & Stable (F&S) LLP has secured ownership of the Haygain brand name and the business intellectual property rights. The Group prides itself on having delivered “impeccable service” for over 45 years. Their management group will now concentrate on producing a comprehensive plan to integrate the Haygain brand, reintroduce products back into the market, and outline its future strategic positioning.
F&S has stated that, although it does not have a legal obligation to honor warranties on Haygain products previously sold, they have committed to “finding a satisfactory solution” for customers who may be experiencing issues with current products. Additionally, for customers with outstanding orders placed with Haygain, again F&S will endeavor to find a satisfactory solution. The company anticipates that Haygain products will be available on shelves towards the latter end of 2024 with, hopefully, spare parts being available in the shorter term.
In 2012, Farm and Stable, a family-owned business, proudly became a distributor for Haygain products in Germany and England. The have sold over 4,000 Haygain products, making hundreds of connections with customers until their successful partnership ended in 2022. Farm and Stable then went on to produce their own hay steamers, with the knowledge acquired through selling Haygain steamers and, along with their sister company FS Animal Health launched their own brand in the UK, the Nuveq steamers, in early 2023.
Farm and Stable are very excited about this acquisition of the Haygain brand name and plan to have both Nuveq and Haygain products coexist harmoniously, offering a comprehensive range of solutions for equine health and remain committed to delivering the exceptional quality and innovation equal to the Haygain name.
SPANA (the Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad) announced that Marianne Davies has been appointed as the charity’s interim Chair of Trustees on Monday, 15th April 2024. Marianne was formally voted into her new role by the SPANA Board of Trustees on 25 March 2024 following the resignation of former Chair of Trustees, Dr Mary-Lorraine Hughes, who has supported the charity for 40 years.
A senior HR and change professional, Marianne currently works as Global Head of People Services at GSK, where she has spent much of her executive career. She has a strong interest in animal welfare and, having visited many countries where SPANA works, is keen to contribute to improving the lives of working animals and their communities. Marianne joined SPANA’s Board of Trustees in September 2021 and is also a member of SPANA’s People and Safeguarding Committee. In addition to her work as a Trustee, Marianne has raised vital funds for SPANA by running the London Marathon in 2023.
Marianne Davies said: “During my three years as a Trustee of SPANA, I have been inspired by the charity’s extraordinary support for working animals. I am excited and honoured to now be appointed Chair of Trustees at SPANA, during a time when the charity is significantly developing its work to meet the growing challenges it faces from issues such as rising global poverty, political instability, and climate change.
“During my three years as a Trustee of SPANA, I have been inspired by the charity’s extraordinary support for working animals.“
Marianne Davies
“SPANA’s strategy for 2023-27 outlines an ambitious vision for the future of the charity and how we will radically extend our reach and impact during these turbulent times. A number of exciting new initiatives are currently in development at SPANA, which will be truly transformative for working animals and the communities they so loyally support.
SPANA’s Chief Executive, Linda Edwards, said: “We are delighted that Marianne Davies has been appointed as our Chair of Trustees at SPANA. Marianne’s commitment to working animal welfare and our plans for SPANA will help ensure the charity can transform the lives of working animals.”
Stepping down from the position, Mary-Lorraine Hughes said: “As the charity moves into its second century, the time seems right for me to stand aside. It has been a pleasure to work alongside skilled and committed staff members, both in the UK and the various countries in which SPANA operates.
“I wish SPANA a successful future in focusing on the care of working animals: such worthwhile and extremely important work.”
SPANA extends its sincere thanks to Mary-Lorraine for her years of commitment and support to SPANA and the needs of working animals.
SPANA is the world’s longest-running global charity dedicated to the welfare of working animals. Globally, it is estimated that more than 200 million working animals support families’ livelihoods in low-income communities through activities such as transporting food, water, goods and firewood. Yet, despite the importance of their work, working animals often face complicated lives and poor welfare, toiling in extreme conditions, with no available veterinary treatment.
In 2022, the charity provided vital veterinary treatment, care and support to 306,412 working animals. It also taught animal welfare lessons to 87,241 children and provided training in animal care to 89,924 working animal owners.
British Equestrian is now accepting applications for the Young Professionals Programme for 2023/2024, a Sport England-funded initiative.
The programme is designed to support the transition from the youth pathways into the equestrian workplace.
The Young Professionals Programme is designed to support the personal and career development of young people in the equestrian industry who have their own businesses or are looking to start one in the future. Delivered in collaboration with British Dressage, British Eventing and British Showjumping, the programme is a series of interactive workshops both in person and online.
Those inducted onto the programme will have the opportunity to create a career development plan and gain the skills and confidence they need to handle different situations that can occur in the workplace. Specialist speakers will cover a broad range of topics essential to running a business, ranging from contract-writing, employment law, insurance and finances to conflict management, communication skills and building a personal brand.
Sara Bech Strøm, who is about to graduate from the 2022/2023 cohort said:
“I’ve learned a lot from our sessions that have touched on interpersonal skills in different situations, dealing with conflict, how to motivate, communicate and more. This has really helped me set up a professional mindset in running a business,”
explains the eventer.
“The programme covers all the relevant topics within the industry and creates a good base of knowledge to either start or expand your business.
“For me it has also been nice meeting others that are on the same journey and to expand my network within the industry and it has set me up with good resources which I can use to further my own business.”
Dressage rider Evelina Shrieve recognised the importance of all the opportunities you take in life and felt the programme offered a balance of business and personal skills, “The programme perfectly bridges the gap between both the logistics of running a business, such as bookkeeping and insurance, as well as self-development; both of which are paramount.
“I would definitely recommend the programme to anyone who is wanting to either pursue or grow their business within the industry, as it is not only provides a huge learning experience, but also brings with it an excellent opportunity to network with people of a similar age.”
Further details of the application process and criteria can be found here. Applications will close on 31 August 2023.
Devonshire-based Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust has announced the appointment of Debbie Leach as its new Chief Executive. She will join the charity in July.
Leach was appointed after an extensive recruitment process led by the board of trustees of the Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust (DPHT). She is currently the Chief Executive of Thames21, an environmental charity for rivers which she expanded and developed to become a successful multi-faceted NGO, connecting local communities with river landscapes and delivering technical environmental solutions whilst working with stakeholders from academic scientists to government to major companies.
Leach said:
The native heritage pony is an essential part of Dartmoor’s culture and precious natural spaces and I am committed to ensuring that these beautiful animals thrive where they belong, on Dartmoor.
People love seeing the ponies in their natural environment, but more than that, they also play an important and proven role in helping to tackle the growing nature emergency and loss of wildlife in the UK.
In localities such as Dartmoor, we have seen how the pony improves the natural environment for wildlife with their natural grazing habits helping to increase biodiversity. This benefit must be investigated and developed further.”
The Trust, a registered charity that is dedicated to the preservation and conservation of the Dartmoor pony breed and the Dartmoor landscape, works with local farmers and breeders in Dartmoor to advance education, raise awareness, participate in research and assist the development of practical, sustainable herds of heritage ponies that benefit the natural landscapes of Dartmoor.
The DPHT’s mission to protect and preserve confirms the primary beneficiaries of the charity are the pony breeders and keepers. The DPHT has three goals:-
To protect and preserve as a species for the benefit of the public and the environment the native ponies of Dartmoor in conjunction with the Dartmoor Pony breeders and farmers.
To advance the education of the public in relation to the native ponies of Dartmoor and wider aspects of Dartmoor’s landscape, biodiversity, archaeology and heritage.
To promote the benefits of the native Dartmoor Pony and be a primary source of Dartmoor Ponies for equine activities and conservation.
A new FEI Accessibility Guide has been launched which is designed to assist Event Organisers with improving accessibility for athletes, staff, and spectators with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy equestrian events regardless of their disability and mobility levels.
This Guide, which is the result of consultation and collaboration with accessibility experts, individuals with disabilities, and professionals in the equestrian industry, covers venue layout, accommodation, and transportation among other areas of Event planning and delivery.
The aim is to provide Event Organisers with a set of guidelines and recommendations which eliminate barriers that prevent people with disabilities from fully participating or working in sports.
Equestrian sport has the power to create inclusive structures that allow access to all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities,”
FEI Secretary General and President of the Association for Paralympic Sports Organisations (APSO) Sabrina Ibáñez said.
Changing perspectives towards disability is a key step in the accessibility journey. It is our belief that making even small changes to our working methods and organisational practices will help to move the needle on the conversation around disability inclusion, equality, and equity.
While this is primarily a Guide for Event Organisers, we, the staff at the International Federation Headquarters in Lausanne (SUI), have also had to take a good look at our internal practices and procedures to see where we can eliminate barriers to entry for people with disabilities and how we can provide a more inclusive physical and organisational environment.
We hope that by working with Organisers to embed accessibility into all strands of Event planning and delivery, this type of thinking will start to permeate our organisational structures and become a seamless part of what we all do in this sport on a daily basis.”
The FEI was one of the first international sports governing bodies to govern and regulate global para sport alongside its able-bodied disciplines when Para Dressage joined its ranks in 2006. The Para-Equestrian Committee was created in 2006 when the governance of Para-Equestrian passed from the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) to the FEI.
Over the years, there has been more integration of Para Equestrian sport into the FEI Governance and World Championship structures, which has raised the profile of Para Sport alongside the FEI’s other disciplines.
The FEI Accessibility Guide for Event Organisers is available for download here.
Bolesworth has partnered with Helite UK and Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) for its 2023 season of equestrian events.
When the relaunched Bolesworth International gets underway on Wednesday 14th June, Helite UK will be the Official Equestrian Safety Partner and will work with Bolesworth to raise awareness around the importance of rider safety in Showjumping. To achieve this, they will set out to improve the knowledge and understanding of how airbag safety actually works, and its use in day-day and competitive equestrian life. The partnership will, via a rental scheme, provide access to Helite airbag systems to all competitors involved in Bolesworth events.
We have been keeping this under wraps for a while now and are excited to announce that we are an official sponsor and Safety Brand Partner for Bolesworth during 2023. This is a massive step forward for the sport as Bolesworth is the first equestrian venue to promote the safety and wellbeing of their competitors as a core principle when running their events.”
said Peter Riley.
Nina Barbour Bolesworth Managing Director added;
I started to wear an airbag system over a year ago after seeing so many top riders embracing this new technology. I now wear mine every time I get on a horse – it makes me feel far braver! We look forward to promoting safety in our sport at Bolesworth alongside Helite UK.”
The Riding for the Disabled Association charity will be the Official Equestrian Charity Partner. The organisation benefits the lives of over 17,000 disabled children and adults. With fun activities like riding and carriage driving, they provide therapy, fitness, skills development and opportunities for achievement – all supported by 13,000 volunteers and qualified coaches at nearly 500 RDA centres all over the UK. RDA will support Bolesworth equestrian events with demonstrations and activation such as its popular mechanical horse Charley.
Lisa Davies, Head of RDA Communications, said;
We are delighted that Bolesworth International have chosen us as their charity partner for this prestigious event. RDA groups support thousands of disabled people every year from accessing physical exercise and achieving their therapeutic or personal goals; to combatting social isolation and boosting wellbeing and happiness. We know that the engagement between people and horses makes a very powerful impact, and we couldn’t do any of it without our amazing horses and volunteers, and the generous support of so many. We’re very grateful to Bolesworth for choosing us, and excited to share our work with visitors to the event. RDA delivers a lot more than people may realise, and this is a fantastic opportunity for us to demonstrate the value of what we do, the benefits of volunteering, and encourage visitors to get involved and help transform more lives.”
We are delighted to be partnering with the RDA as our official equestrian charity partner and help promote their vision in enriching the lives of disabled people through horses,” said Nina. “The charity works tirelessly to deliver the therapy and fun of horses to as many people as they can and carry out life-changing activities.”
The full line-up of content for the brand new Bolesworth International will be released on Wednesday 22 nd February, leading with Live Music, with high profile singers & DJs performing on Friday & Saturday nights, an incredible new shopping experience featuring your favourite Equestrian & Lifestyle brands, and a huge action & entertainment zone due to be open from Friday 16th – Sunday 18th June. This will feature high-energy displays and activities for the whole family from toddlers to equestrians and even for the petrol heads of the family!
British Equestrian is pleased to launch its new coach bursary scheme, designed to help people who would like to take the first step in their coaching career or further develop their existing coaching skills but who might be held back by the cost of gaining qualifications.
Funded by Sport England, the bursary scheme is intended to support staff and volunteers at riding centres to gain qualifications, thereby helping to grow the opportunities for people to enjoy riding and equestrian sport. This comes in part as a response to some of the challenges highlighted in British Equestrian’s Health of Riding Centres survey, which took place in the early part of last year. The survey showed that many riding centres in the UK are struggling to meet the demand for participation, with one of the key barriers to increasing capacity being a shortage of qualified staff and volunteers.
The coach bursary scheme will also support coaches from underrepresented populations or protected characteristics – in particular, those from lower socio-economic or ethnically diverse communities coaches with a disability –or those who work with participants from these same groups.
Applicants can apply for up to fifty percent of the course and/or assessment costs for a number of different coaching qualifications that are offered by British Equestrian’s member bodies. Qualifications range from general riding qualifications through to those that are specific for some of the Olympic and non-Olympic disciplines within the equestrian sporting sector.
“I’m thrilled that British Equestrian is able to offer a bursary to support coaches to start working through their coaching qualifications,” said Participation Officer David Padgen, who has been part of developing the bursary scheme. “We’d like to thank our member bodies for their assistance in shaping it – together, we hope the scheme and the learning we take from it will help us address the capacity challenges riding schools are facing, while bringing new people and new audiences into our industry, both as coaches and participants.”
The closing date for applications for the coach bursary scheme is 23:59 on Sunday 12 March. A guidance document with further information is available to view online, while coaches can submit their application for funding application here.
The Centre Line is delighted to announce their brand partnership with Bret Willson International. The relationship was formed after Bret and his fiancé, Rosie Moreton-Deakin had been championing the premium products. The Centre Line provides cutting-edge kit to ambitious riders through their online equestrian boutique, making them the perfect fit for Bret and Rosie, who are established dressage riders and trainers. The company puts all their products through vigorous testing and only distributes the high-quality brands they believe in.
Based in South-West England with offices in the USA and Europe, Bret Wilson specialises in locating and the sales of world-class dressage horses and ponies globally. He works closely with the best dressage stables and trainers worldwide, enabling him to find a selection of truly outstanding horses. He comes across many international brands on his travels and has a keen interest in finding products that can give his team the edge, not only looking for perfection in his horses, but that perfection needs to emulate the brands he chooses to work with.
He and Rosie also breed and produce their own dressage horses, most recently winning the NexGen 4yo Championship with Ivicii RMD ridden by head rider, Mark Forrest. The Centre Line provide outstanding customer service, attention to detail and top-quality products and were the perfect fit for Bret who prides himself on his discretion, honesty, experience, and professionalism. The two companies’ ethics and passion for quality and horses are perfectly aligned.
Brett and his team will benefit from Dominick Rugs, Scharf Girths and Lotus Romeo competition jackets, and sport The Centre Line branded merchandise at the many shows their horses compete at. The young horses will start their life on HiForm, giving them the building blocks for health, well-being and winning. Rosie will feature in the 2023 Lotus Romeo campaign alongside a close friend, Carl Hester. It’s an exciting new relationship that will mutually benefit both parties.
MARS EQUESTRIAN™ Partners with Wellington International as a Major Sponsor of the 2023 Winter Equestrian Festival
Wellington International, home of the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), has announced the recently inked 2023 sponsorship agreement with MARS EQUESTRIAN, adding the brand to an elite group of Major Partners of WEF, which kicked off in Wellington, FL, on January 4 and runs through April 2.
As part of an ongoing initiative to link Mars, Incorporated’s family of brands to the equestrian community, MARS EQUESTRIAN has been named the title sponsor of WEF Week 4. The event runs February 1 through 5 and features CSI4* and CSI2* competition, highlighted by the CIS4* Grand Prix, presented by MARS EQUESTRIAN. ETHEL M® Chocolates will be recognized as the presenting sponsor of the CSI2* division during WEF Week 7.
We are proud to become a partner with Wellington International in our collective passion for the equestrian industry,”
said Bridgett McIntosh, PhD, Director at Mars Equestrian.
Through sharing Mars, Incorporated’s diverse portfolio of confectionary, petcare, horsecare, and veterinary products and services, this purposeful partnership affirms our commitment to making enduring positive impacts in the horse community and beyond.”
Spreading their support to the hunter divisions, MARS EQUESTRIAN will present the $10,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby during WEF 7 and the $5,000 USHJA Pony Hunter Derby during WEF 9. Both of the popular hunter offerings will take place on the stunning grass derby field at Equestrian Village.
Wellington International is dedicated to bringing mainstream brands and the equestrian community together through longstanding partnerships. We are thrilled to be among the events that have joined the MARS EQUESTRIAN family, and we appreciate their support of top horse sport venues, as well as all levels and disciplines of the sport,”
said Lenore Brown, Director of Sponsorships at Wellington International.
Committed to an enduring equestrian legacy, MARS EQUESTRIAN sponsorship will include the Small Pony Hunter division throughout the season and an inaugural Children’s Sportsmanship Award. Additionally, ETHEL M Chocolates has been coined the Official Chocolate of the International Club and Sunday Brunch Series in the Blue Ribbon Club at Wellington International.
Did you know
The MARS EQUESTRIAN™ sponsorship at WEF is only the latest illustration of Mars’ multi-generational impact on equestrian sports and the equine industry as a whole. Going back to the 1930s, the founders of Mars, Incorporated, Frank and Ethel V. Mars, established a renowned Thoroughbred breeding and racing stable in Pulaski, Tennessee. They named the property Milky Way Farm, in honor of their best-selling candy bar, and followed up by naming their new SNICKERS® Bar after one of the family’s beloved horses. A decade later, their long-shot Gallahadion carried the Mars silks into the winner’s circle at the 1940 Kentucky Derby. Today, the Mars family and business alike share a passion for horses and equestrian sports.
The Golden Paste Company are excited to announce the brand will be supporting The Pony Club Quiz which will be back in person for 2023.
The Pony Club quiz is the ultimate test for young horse and pony enthusiasts to test their equestrian knowledge in a fun and friendly team environment. The quiz will feature a Mini section and a Junior/Senior section. The format of the quiz will be a mixture of activity challenges such as memory games, pictionary, guess what’s in the bag as well as question and answer rounds. Topics will include equine safety, feeding, points of the horse, colours and markings, types of tack, equine welfare and more.
Area qualifiers take place in March, followed by each highest place Centre and Branch teams from each section at Area qualifiers who will be invited to the Quiz Final which will take place Saturday 22nd April 2023 at Moulton College in Northampton.
Branca Gebbie, Golden Paste Company Business & Trade Manager said,
We are delighted to be supporting The Pony Cub Quiz, the charity organisation is the starting point for so many horse riders and education is key to this.
Our two organisations have many shared values including the desire to educate, support and develop horse knowledge among young people and the quiz tests the understanding of members in a fun and supportive way.
The core of our equine range of products is all about educating horse owners about the benefits of natural supplements with turmeric being the key ingredient. We are dedicated to bringing equine health and well-being to the forefront of young horse owners’ minds and look forward to seeing this year’s quiz teams progress.”
Find out more about The Pony Club Quiz and past questions at pcuk website.
Global animal charity SPANA (the Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad) has launched its new organisational strategy, Transforming the Lives of Working Animals: SPANA Strategy 2023-27. This outlines the charity’s ambitious plans for the next five years and its aim to support the welfare of more working animals than ever before.
100 years on from SPANA’s foundation in 1923, the new strategy sets out how the charity will improve the welfare of working horses, donkeys, camels, mules, elephants and other working animals across the world, at a time when these animals face challenges on an unprecedented level.
These challenges include rising global poverty and inequality, which are leaving owners struggling to care for, feed and even keep their animals. Other risks, such as increasing political and economic instability and zoonotic diseases, and direct threats to certain species like the global donkey skins trade, are creating further challenges for working animals. The ongoing impact of climate change is also proving increasingly difficult on communities that rely on working animals for their livelihoods.
SPANA’s new strategy has three core goals:
To improve the quality of life for working animals globally, at a greater scale than ever before; To ensure the contribution working animals make to people across the world is recognised and valued; To ensure that the world of working animals thrives and grows sustainably, as part of the nexus of animals, people and the environment.
In pursuing these three core goals, the charity will also work to build its reputation as a pioneering, modern and truly global organisation; a proven project partner; and an exemplar in safeguarding and governance.
SPANA’s strategy for 2023-27 will be driven by the charity’s updated mission and vision. SPANA’s mission is to transform the welfare of working animals in a world where animals, people and the environment are respected and thrive. The charity’s vision is a world where every working animal lives a healthy and valued life.\
SPANA’s strategy for 2023-27 will be driven by the charity’s updated mission and vision. SPANA’s mission is to transform the welfare of working animals in a world where animals, people and the environment are respected and thrive. The charity’s vision is a world where every working animal lives a healthy and valued life.
Globally, more than 200 million working animals have a key role in the day-to-day existence and survival of many communities across the globe. Transporting goods, food, water and firewood and supporting agricultural production, these animals support the livelihoods of more than half a billion people. However, many working animals face tough conditions and endure poor welfare, often lacking access to fresh water, adequate nutrition, rest, shelter and essential veterinary care.
Linda Edwards, Chief Executive of SPANA, said:
“100 years since the formation of SPANA, we face challenges and problems that are more complex than ever before, and life for working animals has never been more perilous. A multitude of threats to working animal welfare means demand for our work is greater than ever.
“SPANA’s strategy for 2023-27 outlines how we will rise to these significant challenges and evolve our work. It outlines our ambitions to develop and expand our core activities and operating model. Historically, SPANA’s focus has been on ensuring the treatment of working animals in need, while seeking longer-term changes in animal welfare through the training of owners in animal care and the teaching of children in animal welfare. That will remain the foundation of our work. But as we continue to Treat, Train and Teach, we will also seek to Transform – through innovative new activities and strategic partnerships designed to transform the welfare of working animals, in a world where animals, people and the environment are respected and thrive.
“Our new strategy will involve scaling our impact while maintaining quality delivery; demonstrating greater value for money; and using evidence to influence globally – all while improving the resilience and wellbeing of working animals and the people who depend upon them. Above all, our strategy will enable SPANA to deliver a lasting transformation in the lives of working animals across the world.”
SPANA’s new strategy was launched during a special preview at the House of Lords in London in January 2023, in an event that also marked the official start of SPANA’s centenary year. SPANA’s Chief Executive Linda Edwards unveiled the charity’s plans alongside other key speakers, who included SPANA Mali Country Director, Dr Amadou Doumbia, and SPANA Ethiopia Country Director, Teferi Abebe Kidane, plus SPANA’s President, Lord de Mauley. Along with other special guests, Ambassadors and partners, the event was also attended by Arti Kumar MBE, the niece of SPANA’s co-founder, Nina Hosali, who established the charity with her mother, Kate, in 1923.
SPANA’s new strategy for 2023-27 is the subject of a new short film narrated by the charity’s Patron John Craven. To watch, and embed, the film, visit www.spana.org/strategy.
SPANA is the world’s longest-running charity dedicated to supporting global working animal welfare. In 2021, SPANA worked across 28 countries and directly supported the welfare of more than 291,000 working animals.
Badminton Horse Trials has appointed Freemans Event Partners as its new food and drink partner across its public catering offering ahead of the 2023 event.
The Gloucester-based event specialist is now the major provider of Badminton Horse Trials public catering, including food, ice cream, hot drinks, confectionery, and bars.
Freemans Event Partners will also be providing the prestigious event, which is renowned for its food court and VIP areas, with payment solutions across its public catering outlets as well as deploying seating and dining infrastructures across the food courts.
Freemans Event Partners supports over 400 of the UK and Europe’s biggest events and venues, such as Silverstone, Lord’s Cricket Ground, Twickenham, London Stadium and the BMW PGA Championship.
It was Freemans Event Partners position as a leading event solutions provider and its proven track record of enhancing the consumer experience at events, that helped secure this new contract, as Jane Tuckwell, Event Director of Badminton Horse Trials, explains:
“The Freemans Event Partners team has proved time and time again that they can create bespoke food and beverage offerings that perfectly fit an event and its audience. This was a crucial factor for us when selecting a partner for the Badminton Horse Trials, as we have a very specific demographic.
“Equally, we were impressed by their track record in delivering high volume while maintaining exceptional quality and service levels. As we look ahead to what promises to be a momentous 2023, we’re incredibly happy to have Freemans Event Partners with us on this journey.”
“The 2023 Badminton Horse Trials, presented by Mars Equestrian, timetable has been scheduled to complement the upcoming coronation of King Charles III and the Queen Consort, with the dates being shifted to 4-8 May. There will be a break in the middle of the second day (Saturday 6th May) so everyone can watch the Coronation on the big screens situated in the catering areas.
Jane adds: “With this year’s event coinciding with the Coronation, it will be a celebration of the best of British in the most wonderful and historic way. This will be represented across the event.”
Badminton Horse Trials is one of just seven five-star equestrian events in the world, with over 180,000 people attending over the five days. Five-star is the highest level of eventing competition, where the very best horses and riders in the sport compete against each other in three phases: dressage, cross-country and show jumping.
Stephen Freeman, Freemans Event Partners CEO, adds: “Here at Freemans Event Partners, we’re proud to partner with the UK and Europe’s most iconic events and venues, and thrive to deliver outstanding customer experiences that are bespoke to each event. We’re incredibly thrilled to be starting on this journey with the Badminton Horse Trials.”
“Not only is it one of the leading events of its kind anywhere in the world, with thousands of attendees and the highest level of competition, but it’s right here in our home country of Gloucestershire in the glorious grounds of Badminton Park.”
Lively discussions, presentations, and proposals provided a vibrant atmosphere at the FEI Eventing Forum & National Safety Officers Seminar 2023 hosted by the French Equestrian Federation (FFE), which concluded at Haras de Jardy (FRA) today.
A number of significant topics were discussed and, where appropriate, voted upon, including risk management, social license and cross-country flag rules. Break-out groups focussed on other topics to discover solutions and ideas which were later presented to the entire delegation.
Of the three days, the first was dedicated to discussions around Risk Management statistics and trends based on comprehensive data collected since 2004, and also highlighting 2022 had recorded the lowest number of rotational falls at FEI level since reporting had started.
Social License and Media Training were the first topics to be tackled following the visit to Versailles, followed by a discussion on sanctions to help improve safety and the future development of 5* events with detailed feedback from the Organisers of Badminton, Burghley, Lexington and Pau.
Among the breakthroughs from the weekend, a proposal made by Sweden’s Staffan Lidbeck regarding cross-country flag rules and the addition of penalties for displacing a flag was met with overwhelming support.
Lidbeck referred to the system currently used at national level in Sweden, where at present, the rule is zero penalties for jumping clear through the flags, 7 penalties when a flag loses its upper attachment, and 20 penalties for a run-out or when a horse jumps the fence with no part of the hind end going through the flag. A show of hands confirmed the majority of the delegates agreed to the concept, with the consensus that further discussion needed to take place regarding the proposed number of penalties to be applied.
Talking about the effect of the new rule on the sport in Sweden, Lidbeck’s fellow-countryman and leading Eventing Technical Delegate and Course Designer Lars Christensson said, “I think it has made riders respect fences more, and they ride more correctly. We will be going the right way if we introduce this in the sport”.
The delegates also discussed standards for cross-country courses; the potential to make safety stirrups mandatory; as well as the use of the Horse Form Index within the community. Throughout the Forum, the delegates were also presented a number of technology and design related innovations to increase safety from enhanced biometric data to boot design.
Busy
A total of 108 delegates from 24 National Federations (NF) attended, and once again the Forum was moderated by decorated American Olympian, FEI Board Member, Chair of the FEI Eventing Committee and USEF Chief of Sport David O’Connor, alongside Geoff Sinclair, Chair of the FEI Eventing Risk Management Steering Group (RMSG).
The busy three-day programme was preceded by a one-day course led by frangible device MIM’s founder Mats Björnetun and course builder James Willis on Thursday, 19 January, which 72 NF representatives attended. This included the latest technology updates on the fitting of frangible devices correctly and advice on adapting currently-used devices to the new standard.
Agria, a specialist UK Equine insurance company, has announced its sponsorship of multiple Paralympic, World and European medallist Natasha Baker OBE.
Agria’s lifetime horse insurance allows horse owners the reassurance that vet bills can be covered year after year for recurring injuries or repetitive or chronic conditions, ensuring their horses’ lifelong welfare. A Lifetime policy, with up to £10,000 of vet fees cover every year, means that owners will no longer face the difficult decision of whether to “call the vet or wait and see”.
Agria Lifetime Equine is all about supporting horses and riders whether they are fulfilling the ambitions of a lifetime or simply providing fun and relaxation each week — two sides of equestrian life Natasha completely understands as an international rider, based from her family’s yard,”
We know our innovative insurance, allowing vet bills to be covered year after year, is a game-changer. So, we’re delighted that a Games champion like Natasha is joining our team. We look forward to supporting her through exciting times as she prepares to combine parenthood with many more equestrian successes.”
says Vicki Wentworth, Managing Director of Agria UK, herself a keen event rider.
In a sport, and past time, that’s filled with ups and downs, it’s imperative horse owners, competitors and riders feel their horse is adequately protected should the worst happen. With a plentitude of equine insurers available on the market, it’s difficult to know which one to choose for the best. Standing out from the crowd, Agria’s Lifetime insurance offers extended protection which many insurances fail to provide.
As a Paralympian I understand better than most how crucial it is to find and produce a horse with the attributes to be my perfect partner,
Agria’s Lifetime Equine insurance really caught my attention therefore as a better way to protect that partnership, supporting horses for life and helping ensure they get all the care they need. I am thrilled to be joining Agria’s stable, and to be insuring my horses with them.
Agria is also known for top class customer service, very fast claims processing, and its commitment to animal welfare.”
To find out more, please visit the Agriapet website.
British Equestrian (BEF) and Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) have teamed up on a new project which will lessen the environmental impact at organisational and industry level for equestrian sports.
In a pioneering collaboration with leading sustainability agency White Griffin, the two organisations will focus attentions on the responsibility to the environment through actions and leadership practices and have made this a priority for 2023.
The anticipated five-month project will take place over three phases including research, mapping exercise, analysis, recommendations and a stakeholder engagement plan.
The resulting recommendations and road map will benefit both organisations at an operational level, provide a framework for their stakeholder bodies and inspire the overall equestrian community to achieve effective change long term to safeguard our environment.
The announcement comes following an invitation to tender on a new project, ‘Setting the Environmental Sustainability Baseline for British Equestrian’ which aims to help understand compliance levels and requirements for environmental sustainability.
This will, in turn, provide recommendations to embed into an overarching strategy and provide knowledge and support to member bodies to do the same.
In parallel, HSI was outlining a similar project and the organisations agreed to work jointly on the venture. The European Equestrian Federation (EEF) will also be a project stakeholder.
White Griffin, who work within the sports sector as well as with major names and events in the entertainment sector, recently facilitated a report for the British Horseracing Authority with similar objectives which will help with the wider equestrian industry project. The BEF and HSI would like to recognise the support of Sport England and Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in this ground-breaking research project.
BEF Chief Executive Jim Eyre said:
We all collectively have a responsibility for our environment, to ensure a sustainable future and we’re delighted to be working with Horse Sport Ireland and White Griffin on this essential project for the equestrian industry.
As a sector so integrated and reliant on nature and the countryside, we must make better informed decisions to reduce our environmental impact wherever we can and act as guardians of the landscape. I look forward to working on the project with the aim to help our industry, here in the United Kingdom, in Ireland and beyond in Europe, to become as sustainably responsible as possible.”
Denis Duggan, Chief Executive of HSI, continued;
We are delighted to be working in collaboration with the British Equestrian Federation and White Griffin on behalf of the Irish Equestrian Industry, together with industry support from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, European Equestrian Federation and Sport England.
This ground-breaking project aims to act as the current position piece for our equestrian community. Breeders and producers are the bedrock of our industry and have an intricate understanding of the environment and its interplay with the equine eco-system.
Environmental Sustainability is key to the future of the equestrian industry nationally, internationally and has an impact on our daily lives. This research will provide a roadmap to understand the opportunities for our sector to embrace policy changes and provide direction for ongoing symbiosis with our natural world.”
White Griffin Project Lead Ruth Dancer said:
We are delighted to be working with the BEF and HSI on this project, because as a company we are passionate about working with equestrian businesses, charities and organisations across the whole network.
The climate crisis impacts everything that this sector does and in turn, the sector impacts upon it. Through this work we hope to demonstrate ways in which the industry can positively impact the environment whilst crucially safeguarding the future of equestrianism and equestrian sports.”
Dodson & Horrell have announced the appointment of two highly respected professionals who will join the leading horse feed manufacturer during an exciting time in the company’s history.
Dr Stephanie Wood will join D&H as R&D and Marketing Manager.
Dr Stephanie Wood, who will join D&H as R&D and Marketing Manager in February, boasts extensive experience in equine nutrition, animal welfare, and veterinary sciences. She brings highly sought-after skills and expertise to the role for which she plans to develop nutritional plans for the equestrian community further:
I am very excited to be joining Dodson and Horrell at this pivotal time in its long history as a market leader in equine nutrition, and I am particularly looking forward to developing its R&D and marketing plans to help deliver the best nutritional programs for the equine community
said Dr Stephanie Wood.
Sam Horrell, spoke on the appointment of Dr Stenaphie Wood:
This [R&D and Marting Manager] important role will ensure nutrition and technical expertise continue to be at the heart of the Dodson and Horrell brand, and we are thrilled to have someone of Stephanie’s calibre joining the team
Returning to D&H is Anna Smith, who will join as Head of Thoroughbred. Anna has spent over 10 years working with thoroughbreds and has extensive technical support and nutritional knowledge, having supported some of the biggest and most prestigious racing accounts across the UK.
Anna Smith returns to D&H as Head of Thoroughbred.
Anna commented:
I am delighted to be joining Dodson and Horrell at this exciting time in their long history. 2023 will be an exciting year as we bring forward the next generation of nutrition and feeding solutions. I am very much looking forward to getting started.’
Sam Horrell commented:
Anna will be providing an extra layer of technical support to our thoroughbred team and will be available to all yards, both existing and potential, to ensure that Dodson & Horrell continues to lead thoroughbred Nutrition.
For more equestrian business stories visit our dedicated news category here
In Memoriam: FEI mourns loss of FEI Jumping Director Marco Fuste (1962-2023)
Spain’s Marco Fuste, known for his bountiful charisma and extensive experience in the equestrian sporting sphere, including his tenure as FEI Jumping Director since 1 February 2021, passed away on 5 January 2023 from heart complications. He was 60 years of age.
Highly regarded by the equestrian family, Fuste had a wealth of experience in the equestrian world which he gained through the many roles he embraced: from athlete to event organiser, chef d’équipe as well as hands-on governance administrator both in and out of the equestrian sphere.
During his time at the FEI, Fuste oversaw the full revision of the FEI Jumping Rules, the successful delivery of the postponed Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games due to Covid-19, the delivery of FEI World Championships, World Cup and Nations Cup Finals among thousands of events around the world. He prioritised consultation, was always reachable and worked closely with the FEI Jumping Committee and Chair Stephan Ellenbruch (GER) to ensure the different stakeholders within the community understood the decisions, the reasoning and the decision-making process.
“The FEI and the greater equestrian community have lost a true friend, loyal equestrian, mentor and aficionado,” FEI President Ingmar De Vos said.
“Marco always gave it his all – he was not one for half measures or taking the easy option – and everyone respected him for his tenacity, his integrity and his good business sense.
“Marco was true to his convictions and was always true to himself. He was passionate about the sport and about the people, rational beyond measure and simply a wonderful human being. His generosity and thoughtfulness, as well as his wise insights and remarkable ability to recall and recount countless anecdotes, made him memorable and colourful at every encounter.
“Marco said that to be appointed FEI Jumping Director was his dream job, and for us, he was our dream candidate – passionate, experienced, knowledgeable, genuine, caring, determined and driven to do the right thing for the sport and for the people in the sport.
“We will miss him dearly at the FEI, and I know the entire community is also mourning his loss and everything he stood for.”
On behalf of the FEI Family, which held Marco in the greatest esteem, the FEI extends its deepest condolences to his wife Isa, his daughter Ainhoa, his father, extended family, the Spanish equestrian community and everyone around the world who had the chance to get to know and spend time with him. May he rest in peace.
Marco Fuste
About Marco Fuste
Before joining the FEI and among many career highlights, Fuste was Director of Jumping for the Spanish Equestrian Federation and chef d’equipe of the Spanish Jumping team from 2006 to 2021. During this time, he also served as a member of the FEI Jumping Committee from 2011 to 2015, and a member of the European Equestrian Federation (EEF) Jumping and Nations Cup working groups. Prior to this, he had also worked at both the Barcelona 1992 Olympic Games and the FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2002 in Jerez (ESP), and was a recipient of the Gold Medal of the Real Federación Hípica Española in 2009, the Federation’s highest distinction.
In the lead up and alongside his equestrian career – borne from a lifelong love of horses – Fuste earnt his stripes exploring and working in a number of different sports. This started in 1986 with the position of Event Manager at the Spanish sports events company Organización y Gestión Deportiva S.A, before a nine-year stint with the World League of American Football, NFL Europe and NFL Europe League. He would go on to explore the tennis world, becoming General Manager at the Royal Spanish Tennis Federation, a tenure which coincided with Spain recording its first Davis Cup victory.
“When does use become abuse in the horse-human partnership?” asks World Horse Welfare at its 25th annual conference
“When does use become abuse?” is the question that will be explored by experts across the horse world and beyond at World Horse Welfare’s 25th annual conference being held on Thursday November 10th at the Royal Geographical Society in London. The conference will also be held virtually (online), thanks to the kind sponsorship of the Sir Peter O’Sullevan Charitable Trust.
The charity’s President, HRH The Princess Royal, is expected to attend this event which regularly attracts more than 600 guests to discuss strategic issues that impact welfare across the horse world. This year’s event features speakers from the USA, Latin America, Europe and the UK with a lively discussion anticipated in light of the range of societal perspectives on what has become an increasingly challenging question.
The line drawn between acceptable use of horses and abuse has shifted in recent years as societal values evolve and the public – and many equestrians – have greater understanding of, and place a greater value on, the welfare of animals. High-profile incidents in horse sport have prompted public concern, while debates on whether an equestrian’s traditional practices are or are not still acceptable increasingly erupt on social media.
Roly Owers, World Horse Welfare Chief Executive said,
The crucial link between truly prioritising horse welfare and maintaining our social licence to operate is getting more recognition in horse sport, but this concept also applies much more widely to all uses of horses, be it horse riding, carriage riding, tourism, therapy, conservation grazing, rewilding and even keeping horses as companions. What was previously acceptable is often no longer considered so but where is the line now drawn, and who decides?”
A range of speakers from around the world will explore this complex topic including:
Mark Wentein, Chair, European Horse Network on ‘The horse in Europe: relevance and responsibilities’
Tamara Tadich, Associate Professor, Universidad Austral de Chile on ‘Getting the balance right for working equids’
Matt Brown, US five-star Eventer on ‘We all need to do better’
Lee Cain, Founder, Charlesbye Strategy on ‘A matter of opinion’
Claire Bessant, Former CEO, International Cat Care on ‘Cat welfare: When does use become abuse?’
The live discussion panel features representatives from a diverse cross-section of the equestrian world: Chaired by Nick Powell, Sports Editor of Sky News and comprising of Dr Sarah Coombs, Vet and World Horse Welfare Trustee; Dr Amber Batson, Vet; Professor Christine Middlemiss, UK Chief Veterinary Officer; Bluebell Brown, Royal Veterinary College and Lee Mottershead, Senior Writer, Racing Post. The panel will explore the theme further and take questions from the audience.
The charity’s President, HRH The Princess Royal, will provide her views at 13:35 and the conference will run until 15.30.
World Horse Welfare would like to thank the headline sponsor of the Conference, The Sir Peter O’Sullevan Charitable Trust, and the event’s other supporters, the Horseracing Betting Levy Board and Equine Register for their pivotal involvement in helping make the Conference possible.
Wellington International Recognized as Award Winner by Florida Festivals & Events Association
The Florida Festivals & Events Association (FFEA) recently announced the winners of its annual SUNsational Awards during their 28th annual convention and tradeshow, and Wellington International is proud to announce that the organization was honored with eight awards in various categories! Out of a total of more than 200 events, that were nominated for different distinctions, Wellington International was one of a select group that was recognized with an award thanks to its promotions and activations that were implemented during the 2022 Winter Equestrian Festival and $500,000 Rolex Grand Prix CSI5*.
Wellington International was recognized with the following awards:
Winter Equestrian Festival
1st Place – Event Guide or Brochure
1st Place – Sponsor Partnership
2nd Place – Billboard / Signage
2nd Place – Community Outreach Program
2nd Place – Event Recap
$500,000 Rolex Grand Prix CSI5*
1st Place – Sponsor Partnership
2nd Place – Photo
2nd Place – PR / Media Campaign
“Our entire team at Wellington International is honored to have been recognized by the FFEA,” commented Michael Stone, President. “We are so pleased to have our collective efforts recognized, and we will continue to work diligently to offer award-winning horse shows for years to come.”
Nominations were judged by a blue ribbon panel representing media outlets, printing companies, website designers, photographers, promotional marketing professionals and social media experts. The SUNsational Awards recognize members’ innovation, individuality and creative collaboration across ten categories.
“The SUNsational Awards have recognized and celebrated the talents of our members for more than two decades,” said Suzanne Neve, CEO of the FFEA. “We’re proud of our members and their events – and excited to recognize them in this way each year. This year in particular was incredibly rewarding as we showcased the innovation and resilience of festival and event organizers throughout the state during this unprecedented time.”
A global corporate development specialist has swapped the boardroom for the paddock by launching a new business in Penkridge, South Staffordshire.
Julia Jones, founder of Altezza People UK, has combined her 20 years of experience in psychometrics and corporate development with her passion for horses to offer experiential learning workshops for businesses, teams and individuals.
Julia Jones, founder of Altezza People UK, with Georgie the horse. Photo: Tasara Broad Photography.
Julia, 51, hosts the workshops at Coppice Farm. She said: “I trained to become an equine facilitator, specifically for businesspeople, after having my own transformative experience just over 8 years ago.
“It inspired me to offer homes to four horses from a charity to join the one I already owned and launch this business, so I can bring this powerful learning to my clients and community.
“Self-care as we leave the pandemic is essential. Organisations are supported to recalibrate, and horses offer non-verbal cues that are easy to interpret. We also have a therapy dog on the team for extra support!”
The pandemic presented Julia with challenges, but thanks to Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce she has received mentoring, leads, training, grants, and access to free initiatives.
“The Chamber helped me to get my business off the ground!” said Julia. “I’ve gained nine new clients! I’m supported by fantastic bookkeeping, accountancy, digital marketing, web hosting, printing, vets, farm owners, farrier, and equine supplies – all local.”
Julia recently won the South Staffordshire Business Award for allocating 50 per cent of the business’ revenue to supporting other local businesses.
Julia is an Accredited Equine Facilitated Learning Practitioner with the Human-Equine Relational Development Institute®. She has worked with a range of businesses in a variety of sectors, including tech, law, distribution, HR, retail and pharmaceuticals. Visit altezzapeople.co.uk.
Feature Image
Kirsty Nelms, director of Peacock Digital Marketing, Georgie the horse, and Suraj Rana, director of Sole Legal Services. Photo: Tasara Broad Photography.
The promotion of your personal thoughts is one of the most demanded features on Reddit. This is the reason why topics, where people can ask someone questions, are that popular here. Nonetheless, when you want to get a beneficial promotion of yourself, which would lead you to the creation of a personal brand, you will definitely have to buy Reddit upvotes, which would give you a great start.
However, a huge number of misunderstandings and lack of knowledge of how to make a personal advertising campaign successful might create both minor and major issues for you. So here are some simple tips, which can help you create good grounding for your self-promotion.
Getting The Campaign Started
The creation of a proper image has two major ways of being implemented. On one hand, you are able to use your main account to make it your base for the production of thoughts. On the other hand, you are able to use 3rd party accounts, which would represent your position, referring to you.
Using The Main Account
Using your main account might always be a risk. One simple mistake, and you will have no way back. This way, your task is to have everything under your control.
Manage your account. Your task is to create it in advance, adding all the information you need in order to create a proper image. Don’t be afraid to spend some time analyzing Reddit for making everything properly.
Attend controversial topics. Your main task is to show how strong your position is. Every topic might be controversial, and you don’t have to worry about someone who doesn’t agree with you. Your task is to show the people who share your opinion that you are worth being an influencer.
Don’t advertise yourself directly. The common mistake many people make is breaking the border. Your main task is to express your opinion natively, without a constant reminder of yourself. Just post a comment, and don’t try to add “I explained this topic on my YouTube channel, come watch it”. Just make everything natively.
Buy upvotes to show your support. To add value to your thoughts, don’t be afraid to buy some upvotes to your comments. Having a discussion, you will have to promote all your messages, showing the support of the community, so many people would be more likely to follow you.
These kick-start tips are a great option to use on your main account, using it as a platform for your opinion and to drive more loyal supporters for your expressions.
How To Use 3rd Party Accounts?
Using 3rd party accounts is harder. This way, the advertisement is much easier to be recognized. For this reason, you have to create a discussion, where you will have to refer to your thoughts and buy upvotes to each message.
Though this method might be cheaper sometimes, you will have to be really careful with messages. This method would be useful as a supporter for your main account, which would give you more space for attending other topics.
How Hard Is It To Promote Yourself With Reddit?
The complexity of self-promotion via Reddit is much higher than with regular business. This way, you are the one who is in charge of all the posts, so you have to be really cautious.
Nonetheless, this platform is comfortable for such an advertising campaign, and with keeping all the tips in mind while completing it, you will have an opportunity to have the best promotion possible, without time-consuming actions, which require much effort.
Horsebox and Trailer manufacture, JSW, have been awarded Equestrian Business of the Year by the Central England Prestige Awards 2021/22.
Celebrating small and medium sized enterprises, the awards focus on the marketing and branding, business growth methods, approach to new ideas and most importantly customer experience.
An understandably thrilled Managing Director, Emma Watkinson commented:
Winning this award is amazing – especially after the last couple of years which have taken their toll across all sectors of business. As a company we have always tried to push the boundaries in terms of providing the best equipment possible, whether this is introducing a new manufacturers of horse trailers to the market, or a new style of show jump. Above all it’s about our customers and providing them with the best level of choice and being on the front line with customers we get to know how well the products work and we are well placed to help develop the products further.
One of the factors given consideration when the awards are decided is the Customer feedback, where the results clearly speak for themselves.
The fact that customer satisfaction and feedback was such a large factor in this award makes it extra special to us.”
concluded Emma.
For more information on JSW products visit Jswhorseboxes.
