Tag Archives: corwen

News

Organic farm estate one of only seven brands in Wales to receive King’s Royal Warrant

RHUG ESTATE has received one of the first Royal Warrants of Appointment from His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen.

The organic farm estate, based near Corwen in Denbighshire, is one of just seven businesses in Wales to have been selected for the accolade.

The 12,500-acre site had previously been honoured with a Royal Warrant of Appointment from the Prince of Wales – now King Charles III – for its sustainable ethos and overseeing the entire journey of its animals, supplying restaurants globally in addition to its own popular farm shop and takeaway.

Lord Newborough, owner of Rhug Estate, said: “This is an incredible honour and testament to both the quality of our organic produce, notably the high-quality meat we supply all over the world, and the dedication of our fantastic team.

“Every year we strive to do better, to be more innovative, environmentally conscious, and responsible while raising the bar for organic produce in Wales, at home and on the international stage.

“The Royal Warrant is a seal of approval; it gives us confidence and a platform to reach even further as we explore new markets and unveil new products.

“Whether it be in the café, our farm shop and drive thru or at Michelin-starred restaurants in London or the Middle East, our reputation is further strengthened by the Royal Warrant, so we are of course thrilled to be among the first to receive it.”

The grants were made to companies drawn from those previously holding a Royal Warrant of Appointment, which were first handed out in 1980.

Companies were reviewed and 145 were chosen. Of those, seven were also granted a Royal Warrant of Appointment to HM The Queen.

The document permits an organisation to use the Royal Arms in connection with its business in an appointed trading capacity and is granted for up to five years at a time as a mark of recognition for the ongoing supply of goods or services to the Royal Household.

Those holding Royal Warrants of Appointment represent a huge cross-section of trade and industry, from sole traders to multi-nationals, all united by a commitment to the highest standards of service, quality, excellence, and craftsmanship.

“Congratulations to all those who have received this accolade, we are honoured to be named among this select group and will work hard to maintain the very high standards that helped us to secure it once again,” added Lord Newborough.

For the full list of companies granted a Royal Warrant of Appointment, visit Royal Warrant Holders Association | Public home page.

For more news and information including upcoming events and vacancies with the team at Rhug Organic Farm Estate, visit the website www.rhug.co.uk and follow them on social media at @rhugestate.

News

Organic farm estate launches charitable trust to provide opportunities for city families

A MULTI award-winning organic farm estate launched its own charitable trust to promote sustainability, healthy eating and give disadvantaged children from urban areas an opportunity to experience nature and the countryside.

Rhug Estate, based near Corwen in North Wales, welcomes tens of thousands of visitors every year and has raised money for many UK and international organisations and campaigns, including the NSPCC, Awyr Las, Hope House Hospice, and humanitarian appeals for Ukraine.

More than 1,500 school children enjoyed trips to the 12-500 acre site – which includes a farm shop, drive thru, retail operation, sustainable meat processing plant and Wild Beauty collection – in 2023 alone, along with learners and representatives from colleges, universities, agricultural institutions, business groups and more.

With the Charity Commission having now approved the formation of Rhug Charitable Trust, Estate owner Lord Newborough and his 100-strong team have big plans going forward.

“The aim of the charitable trust was to support charities and organisations in our community and across the country,” he said.

“But also, to advance education across a number of curriculum areas, share knowledge about healthy eating and nature-friendly land management and to open up facilities for recreation, particularly to those who might not have access to the benefits of being in the countryside, whatever their age or background.”

Lord Newborough added: “I am very proud to say the Estate has worked closely with schools, colleges, universities, and community groups for many, many years – it’s an important part of our philosophy of educating and informing people about what we do.

“And after several months of hard work I am delighted that we now have a charitable arm to the Estate.

“The funding we can access will enable us to expand our work, giving many more people the chance to experience the countryside, learn about nature-friendly land management and healthy eating, which are so important to us.

“We are excited to see how this develops and already have lots of ideas in the pipeline, so watch this space.”

For more information on Rhug Charitable Trust (Charity Number 1206365), email Estate Administrator Janice Dale at janicedale@rhug.co.uk.

For more news and information including upcoming events and vacancies with the team at Rhug Organic Farm Estate, visit the website www.rhug.co.uk and follow them on social media at @rhugestate.

News

Organic farm estate unveils series of net zero wins following period of investment

A CELEBRATED organic farm estate grew its reputation as a pioneer in sustainable business with a series of net zero triumphs including a move towards ‘regenerative agriculture’.

The 12,500-acre Rhug Estate, based near Corwen in North Wales, is renowned for its carbon neutral processes and ground-breaking systems.

Led by owner Lord Newborough, the award-winning Estate did even more to reinforce that reputation in the last 12 months, unveiling a series of green energy projects ranging from 4KW to 5MW – including wind, solar, hydro and heat pumps – and receiving plaudits for the international success of its Rhug Wild Beauty range, which uses ingredients foraged on site.

There was also a period of “significant investment” in measuring and monitoring their carbon footprint, as well as reducing emissions.

“Sustainability and protecting the environment is integral to the ethos of Rhug Estate,” said Lord Newborough.

“The significant investment we have made aims to improve carbon sequestration, reduce emissions and reach net zero across our varied and diverse portfolio, but this is just the start of our journey – we have so much more to do.”

Pivotal developments included fitting a hydrogen electrolyser to one of the Rhug delivery vans that travels to London twice a week, reducing exhaust emissions by up to 80%, and fuel combustion by 20%. In addition to that the utility vehicles used every day by shepherds and stockman were converted to gas, leading to huge savings on diesel.

Meanwhile, the cutting plant recently introduced an electrical forklift, replacing the original tractor used to move items around the site; staff have undertaken carbon literacy training to sharpen their knowledge on climate change; measures have been implemented to optimise the efficiency of livestock systems; recycling containers and processes have been upgraded, and the Estate now collaborates with the Too Good To Go scheme, a food waste app that enables customers to reserve and collect surprise food bags that would otherwise be thrown away if not sold.

However, one of the biggest steps was the introduction of ‘regenerative agriculture’ methods, transitioning to a rotational grazing system to support soil health, as well as improving the overall efficiency of livestock systems.

“These are a list of the things we are doing as we continue to raise standards while innovating and hopefully inspiring other organisations in Wales and beyond,” said Lord Newborough.

“We have promoted the use of organic and sustainable farming practices for more than 20 years, and as a result, our recent carbon footprint assessment confirmed we are carbon negative, which is an amazing achievement and makes me very proud of everyone here at the Estate.

“The result means on-farm carbon sequestration outweighs the total emissions associated with daily operations, a comparison being approximately 1600 tonnes of carbon (CO2e) each year, the equivalent to the emissions from 900 single flights to New York.”

He added: “From agroecology to efficiency, we constantly and consistently focus on all areas of the business, notably the farm shop, take away and drive thru, which led to an energy saving of 20,000kWh of electricity between September 2022 and September 2023, and a carbon saving of 4000kgCO2e.

“That has included utilising electricity from our own solar and wind energy generation and looking for opportunities to develop new systems on-site.

“In the last three years we have made remarkable progress. Through the gradual implementation of sustainable practices across all our businesses we have accomplished great change, and we continue to do so.

“We are constantly pushing ourselves to do even better, knowing that every effort we make contributes to a brighter and more sustainable future for the next generation.”

For more news and information, visit the website www.rhug.co.uk and follow them on social media at @rhugestate.

For more information on Wild Beauty, visit www.rhugwildbeauty.com or follow them on social media @rhugwildbeauty.

News

New face joins growing team at globally-recognised organic beauty brand

THERE’S a new face at an award-winning organic beauty range.

Skincare expert Louise Evripidou has joined the team at Rhug Wild Beauty, the popular collection based at Rhug Estate, near Corwen in North Wales.

With more than 25 years’ experience in the sector, Louise is well placed to help take the brand – which is produced using ingredients foraged on the 12,500-acre Denbighshire site – to the next level.

Now living on the picturesque farm estate with partner Mike, the mum-of-two, who hails from Wirral, is thrilled to be helping drive sales via the farm shop while also holding beauty therapy consultation and education sessions in the evenings.

With plans for a pop-up spa and wellness centre on site, Rhug Wild Beauty is looking to build further on its reputation for quality, sustainability, and care, having achieved seven medals, including two golds and three silver, at last year’s Free From Skincare Awards.

“I am so pleased to be here, I really believe in the products and the success of the range so far speaks for itself,” said Louise.

“I’ve worked in five-star spas, hotels and the aesthetics industry for more than 25 years and this collection is up there with the best I’ve come across, so I’m privileged to now be part of the Wild Beauty journey.”

Skin consultations will take place on Wednesdays and Saturdays this month, and there will be an evening consultation and mini facials session on Wednesday March 27 from 6pm-8pm.

As well as offering tips and guidance, Louise can create bespoke skincare routines for customers, and there will be product trials, arm and hand massages, and more.

“This is the perfect place inside and out for people to come and receive a treatment or even sit and talk through our range of products in a warm, welcoming environment,” she added.

“Rhug Wild Beauty is renowned in the UK and globally for its commitment to naturally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices, so I’m going to incorporate that same approach into our personal pampering rituals.

“I look forward to welcoming new and existing customers and being able to share my expertise as the brand continues to grow and go from strength to strength.

“Rhug Estate is so idyllic; we are loving being part of the fabric of this amazing destination and are excited for the future.”

For more information on Wild Beauty, visit www.rhugwildbeauty.com or follow them on social media @rhugwildbeauty.

To book an evening session and for more information on times, visit the website: https://rhug.co.uk/product/mini-treatment-skin-consultation

News

Organic farm estate now has largest herd of bison in UK following new year additions

THESE are the first images of Rhug Estate’s newest addition – 20 North American bison.

The majestic animals have found their home on the 12,500-acre organic farm estate near Corwen in North Wales.

As a result, Rhug now proudly boasts the largest bison herd in the UK, and visitors to the estate can catch a glimpse whilst on the farm walk, a truly memorable experience.

Back in 2007, Lord Newborough had the visionary idea to introduce bison to the estate, and the herd has flourished ever since.

Estate Farm Manager Emyr Owen, from Llanrwst, says the bison family has now grown to over 60, thanks to a recent farm sale in Wiltshire.

Not only do the animals provide a sustainable supply of high-quality meat for distribution and sale on-site, but they also captivate tourists from far and wide, turning heads wherever they roam.

Emyr revealed the bison breeding season is a busy one, with calving taking place from April through to the summer.

As he embarks on his one-year anniversary at the estate, he reflected on the “rewarding yet demanding” journey.

“We have been absolutely flat-out, but I wouldn’t have it any other way,” said Emyr.

“There have been countless developments and endless learning opportunities, and I’m thoroughly enjoying the experience.”

Rhug Estate is renowned as a premier producer of high-quality meats in the UK and has gained recognition for its commitment to countryside preservation and high animal welfare standards.

The Estate was honoured with a Royal Warrant of Appointment by the now King Charles III. From field to plate, Rhug oversees the entire journey of its animals, supplying restaurants worldwide in addition to its own popular farm shop and takeaway.

To stay informed about the latest news and updates from Rhug Estate, visit their website at www.rhug.co.uk and follow @rhugestate on social media.

News

Manufacturer plans for expansion and creates new jobs following award win and revenue surge

A FAMILY-OWNED manufacturing company celebrating more than two decades in business is planning for expansion and creating new jobs.  

And news of further growth at Corwen-based Neatcrown comes after the firm won the prestigious Co-Manufacturer and Packer of the Year title at the UK Packaging Awards, held in London.

Business Development Manager Karen Jones attended the event, and said the group’s commitment to customer service, quality, and the performance of its “incredible team” have led to sustained success.

With a 39,000 sq ft warehouse, laboratory and headquarters sited on 2.5 acres in the picturesque Denbighshire town, Neatcrown – which employs up to 40 staff and is accredited to ISO 9001:2015 – has big plans for the future.

“We are probably one of the best kept secrets in the region and have grown significantly over recent years,” said Karen.

“As a contract manufacturer we work with a lot of distributors and companies that have their own brands, helping them to develop products via our onsite laboratory and ultimately manufacturing them, before they are sent out for sale across the UK and internationally.

“For that and the hard work of the incredible team we have here to be recognised with such an amazing award is a great privilege, so we thank the judges for this accolade.”

Established by the Griffiths family in 2002, Neatcrown Corwen Ltd began to diversify pre-pandemic to focus primarily on growth within the agriculture sector, notably crop nutrition, bio-stimulants, and innovative methods to drive sustainability in farming, having been manufacturing horticultural products at the site for more than four decades.

While expansion continues, the company is renowned for its flexible and reactive approach – switching to disinfectant manufacturing during the first wave of Covid-19 kept the business operational – and partnerships across a wide range of sectors.

CEO Colin Roberts said innovation and forging new relationships centred on advances in technology and sustainability are vital moving forward.

“Given the changing environment, climate change and other global factors, collaboration is pivotal to our continued success,” he said.

“We work with a wide range of organisations, co-manufacturing their products, packaging them and helping to develop them – it’s an end-to-end journey and experience for us, and for the customer.”

Colin added: “Neatcrown is growing, and not just in terms of revenue and reputation but also the jobs we are creating for skilled, passionate workers in what is a remote, rural area.

“We want to continue supporting the local economy as a key employer in the area, building our name and raising standards, for ourselves and the industry.”

They had an opportunity to showcase the business at this year’s CropTec Show, held over two days in Warwickshire. The event has been delivering and showcasing technical knowledge, products, services and practical advice to the country’s progressive growers and agronomists for more than 10 years.

“We are delighted to have exhibited at the show for the first time, it was a chance for us to meet with leading names in the agriculture and horticulture arenas and demonstrate what we do,” said Karen.

“These are fast-growing markets, and we want to get the message out there that we are an expanding, evolving business with a clear vision for further growth that will have a positive impact on our partners, customers and the sector, for many years to come.”

For more information and to see the latest job vacancies at Neatcrown, visit the website www.neatcrown.co.uk or follow Neatcrown on LinkedIn.

Alternatively, call 01490 413121 or email customer.support@neatcrown.co.uk.

News

New jobs and organic expansion as farm estate ends year on a high

ORGANIC growth at a leading farm estate is not limited to its award-winning products.

Rhug Estate, based near Corwen in North Wales, is experiencing significant expansion in all aspects of its operations.

Home and overseas sales have remained buoyant this year and over past weeks several new faces have joined the Rhug family.

Among the recent recruits are Cutting Plant Manager Paulo Santos, and Richard Harris, who will be taking on the role of Procurement and Logistics Manager for the entire Rhug Estate group, including the renowned Wild Beauty range.

Additionally, Emily Johnson has been appointed Head of Sales and Marketing, and Merial Owen to the Accounts department.

Despite difficult trading conditions the sprawling 12,500-acre estate has continued to recover from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Lord Newborough, owner of Rhug Estate and a finalist in the Unretirement Entrepreneur of the Year category at The Great British Entrepreneur Awards, predicts continued success in 2024.

“We are thrilled to welcome Paulo, Richard, Emily, and Merial to our expanding team,” he said.

“The growth we have experienced in all areas of our business this year has necessitated to strengthen the team.

“Our national and international presence, particularly with the Wild Beauty collection, has created a demand for more resources and expertise.”

Lord Newborough added: “As one of the significant employers in this region of North Wales, we take pride in our contribution to the local economy.

“Our farm estate attracts thousands of visitors and supports various producers and small businesses in our supply chain.

“These key appointments will enable us to further our vision for 2024, elevating our standards of quality and commitment to delivering the finest products, events, and produce to our customers.”

For more news and information including upcoming events and vacancies with the team at Rhug Organic Farm Estate, visit the website www.rhug.co.uk and follow them on social media at @rhugestate.

For more information on Wild Beauty, visit www.rhugwildbeauty.com or follow them on social media @rhugwildbeauty.

News

Turkey sales take off at organic farm estate ahead of Christmas event countdown

RHUG ESTATE will serve up lashings of Christmas cheer for visitors over the coming weeks.

The 12,500-acre organic farm estate, based near Corwen in North Wales, is celebrating the yuletide holidays with a series of events and activities for all the family to enjoy.

First up is a two-day food and craft fair, beginning on Saturday December 9, where local producers, crafters and artists will be on hand to share recipes, samples, and showcase their wares.

A selection of Rhug’s award-winning artisan suppliers will also be on hand to speak to, there will be delicious festive treats to enjoy, and a selection of winter warmers including pre-made and bespoke hampers.

On the Sunday (December 10) Santa will be at Rhug – he’s good friends with Lord Newborough and the team! – and ready to welcome children from 10am-4pm. He may even bring one of his reindeer and have a present for you.

And on the following Thursday evening (December 14), you can join the annual Rhug Chapel Service before meeting back at the farm shop and café for carol singing, mulled wine and food, which will be available until 8pm.

December is one of the busiest times of the year at Rhug Estate, and with up to 500 of their award-winning organic Dee Valley Bronze turkeys, meat boxes and geese up for grabs, Lord Newborough urged people to get in touch soon and not miss out.

“The festive events are always a firm favourite as this is such a fabulous place to be at Christmas time, with the amazing atmosphere and the wide range of food we produce in time for the holiday season,” he said.

“We look forward to seeing you all and encourage anyone planning to pre-book one of our organic turkeys or geese to do so quickly as they are already selling fast.”

Lord Newborough added: “Demand is always very high in the weeks before what is for many people the most important meal of the year, and as our turkeys are so very special – they are fed a diet of finest organic oats grown right here at Estate, have plenty of space to roam and exercise and even listen to classical music – customers are always keen to be at the front of the queue.

“We even get orders from as far away as Singapore and Hong Kong, and this year we are offering a wider range of sizes to choose from, so we recommend you order yours soon!”

For more information and to book your place at one of Rhug’s Christmas events, visit www.rhug.co.uk. Follow them on social media at @rhugestate.

To pre-book your turkey or goose in time for Christmas, call 01490 413000, email contact@rhug.co.uk or visit the website: www.rhug.co.uk/product/rhug-estate-organic-dee-valley-bronze-turkey.

News

Organic farm estate boss nominated for ‘unretirement’ award at national entrepreneurship ceremony

LORD NEWBOROUGH has again been nominated for one of the most prestigious entrepreneurship titles in the country.

The owner of the sprawling 12,500-acre Rhug Estate, located near Corwen in Denbighshire, has made it to the final of the Unretirement Entrepreneur of the Year category at The Great British Entrepreneur Awards.

This accolade specifically recognises individuals who have surpassed conventional expectations and pursued their entrepreneurial passions during what is typically considered retirement.

Last year, Lord Newborough received a prize at the ceremony for the remarkable success of Rhug’s sought-after organic Wild Beauty collection, which is crafted from natural ingredients sourced on-site.

“I’ve always said that age should never stand in the way of success,” said Lord Newborough.

“I am just as focused and driven as ever, and with Rhug Estate thriving in various aspects – particularly the farm shop, our global retail operation, and the Wild Beauty product range – there is absolutely no chance of me slowing down!”

Expressing his gratitude to organisers of The Great British Entrepreneur Awards, he went on to praise their unwavering support and commended the wide range of categories they endorse, applauding their commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity in business.

Rhug Estate has become an internationally acclaimed hub for organic farming, with Lord Newborough spearheading the retailing and wholesale distribution of the estate’s high-quality meat products.

In addition to his success in the agriculture and retail sectors, he has pioneered ‘greener’ production and embraced renewable energy sources, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Via a series of revolutionary initiatives, such as reforestation and carbon capture projects, the team at Rhug is actively helping to preserve the environment.

Not content with these accomplishments, Lord Newborough ventured into the world of skincare, utilising ingredients sourced from the estate; as a result the award-winning and popular Wild Beauty skincare collection is now a global brand.

Through this diverse portfolio of successful ventures, he has established himself as a true visionary entrepreneur in multiple industries.

Now in its 11th year, The Great British Entrepreneur Awards – often referred to as the ‘Grammys for Entrepreneurship’ – celebrate exceptional individuals and businesses that fuel innovation, create employment opportunities, and contribute to economic growth.

Francesca James, the founder, shared her admiration for this year’s finalists, and said: “I am truly inspired by the remarkable achievements of these individuals. Their combined accomplishments, generating over £2.7 billion in turnover and employing over 33,000 people, demonstrate the incredible impact they have had on their industries and communities.

“These entrepreneurs embody the spirit of innovation, resilience, and growth that defines the entrepreneurial landscape in the UK.”

The Great British Entrepreneur Awards will take place on November 20 at Grosvenor House in London. To learn more about the event, visit: www.greatbritishentrepreneurawards.com.

For further information on Wild Beauty, visit www.rhugwildbeauty.com or follow them on social media at  @rhugwildbeauty.

Stay up to date with the latest news from Rhug Estate by visiting www.rhug.co.uk and following @rhugestate on social media.

News

A frightening 3,000+ pumpkins to choose from at organic farm estate this Halloween

THERE will be a frightening number of pumpkins to choose from at Rhug Estate this Halloween.

The award-winning 12,500-acre organic farm estate, near Corwen in North Wales, has more than 3,000 up for grabs!

It is the first time Rhug has grown the autumnal squash and tickets for their pumpkin-picking events are selling scarily fast.

Visitors will be able to select their own Jack-o-lantern or decorative species and partake in a series of fang-tastic activities, including an accessible and inclusive ‘spooky tunnel’ under the A5.

There will also be refreshments and ghoulish games for all the family to enjoy.

Estate Farm Manager Emyr Owen, from Llanrwst, is in high spirits thanks to the success of their maiden attempt at growing pumpkin seeds in a 1.5-acre area on-site.

He added: “We are really pleased with the results given the initial dry weather we experienced, they have grown really well and are ready in time for Halloween,” he said.

“Over past months through the rain and sunshine of the summer into the autumn they have flourished, so visitors who come pumpkin picking this week are in for a real treat.”

Emyr added: “They are in a beautiful spot, with picturesque views across the beautiful Rhug Estate.

“There will be lots to keep children entertained, so we look forward to welcoming people for a spooky and unforgettable experience.”

When you arrive at Rhug you will be greeted by a member of the team who will take you over to the pumpkin field.

Once there you will be able to explore the patch, take photos and choose your pumpkin/s for purchase on site. Dogs are allowed on the Estate grounds, but not in the pumpkin patch. Visitors can also enjoy the farm shop and cafe for a bite to eat, before or after their slot.

Rhug Estate owner Lord Newborough added: “Like all our products the pumpkins are completely organic, but this was the first time we’ve ever tried to grow them, so to see so many here, ripe, and ready to go, is heartening and gives us confidence we can do it year after year.

“What we have in store is frightening fun for all the family – we look forward to seeing you soon.”

The pumpkin patch will be open 9am-4pm until Tuesday October 31.

Slots can be booked here: https://www.rhug.co.uk/whats-on/pumpkin-picking-north-wales.

The team at Rhug Estate would love to see your pictures on Instagram so be sure to add the hashtags #rhugpumpkins and #pwmpenrhug to your posts so they can like and share! 

For the latest news and information from Rhug Estate, visit the website www.rhug.co.uk and follow @rhugestate on social media.