Tag Archives: rhug wild beauty

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.

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.

Organic farm estate growing thousands of pumpkins for inaugural Halloween celebrations

THERE are some ghostly growings on at Rhug Estate!

The 12,500-acre organic farm estate, based near Corwen in North Wales, is busy producing thousands of pumpkins in time for a spectacular Halloween celebration.

Visitors will be able to pick their own organic pumpkin and enjoy a series of ghoulish attractions and activities, including an inclusive and accessible ‘spooky tunnel’ under the A5.

There will also be refreshments, games, and lots of frightening fun for all the family.

Farm Estate Manager Emyr Owen, from Llanrwst, says they planted pumpkin seeds in a 1.5-hectare block on-site and they are growing nicely.

“The dry weather didn’t help at first, but a period of rain has reversed that and now the process is well underway,” said Emyr.

“They are growing naturally with no artificial pesticides, herbicides, or fertilisers, completely organic and the majority will be Jack-o-lantern and decorative types.

“We’ve used precision machinery and planted in an area which is usually part of the crop-rotation so it’s exciting to see how things develop over the coming weeks into the autumn.

“This is the first time we’ve ever tried this so it’s going to be a lot of fun for children especially to come and pick their own pumpkin and take part in the spirited celebrations we’ll be having over the course of the Halloween period.”

Rhug Estate owner Lord Newborough added: “We hope to see lots of people visiting the Estate and enjoying the scariest time of year with us! It’s another event that will appeal to our local community and further afield.

“I’m sure it will be a big success and we will look to make it an annual event.”

The event will run from Saturday October 21 to Tuesday October 31 and slots can be booked here: https://www.rhug.co.uk/whats-on/pumpkin-picking-north-wales. Pumpkins will also be sold in the farm shop.

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.

Organic farm estate set for further growth after busy year and redevelopment

CONTINUED sustainable growth has led to job opportunities at an internationally acclaimed organic farm estate.

The 15,000 acre Rhug Estate, near Corwen in Denbighshire, has enjoyed one of its busiest years, with redevelopment at its popular café and a series of ground-breaking projects and partnerships on the horizon, at home and on the global stage.

Already employing up to 100 staff, the business has vacancies in a wide range of areas, including retail and hospitality, office administration, accounts and with the award-winning Wild Beauty collection.

These come after a raft of new starters in 2023, including a Meat Production Manager, Accountant, Farm and Estate Manager, and an Estate and General Manager.

Senior HR Advisor Michelle Thackaberry also joined the organisation this year and says the positions are much sought-after as Rhug’s reputation for quality and innovation spreads across the UK and beyond.

“On a personal note, I’m very excited to have joined the team and it’s an honour to be able to contribute to the ongoing success of an Estate which has been such a huge part of the fabric here in North Wales for so many years,” said Michelle, who lives with husband Tommy in Wrexham.

“It’s very much like a family, and everyone is so committed to doing their best for Rhug.”

She added: “Over the course of the next year I have lots of plans to implement initiatives that will bring a positive impact, and creating an engaging employee experience is at the heart of it.

“I believe that when we look after our people, we get the best from them, which ultimately drives great results for the business.

“It’s going to be a very busy 12 months, there is lots to do, but I can’t wait, and filling the wide and varied roles we have available with the right people is going to be a big part of that.”

Rhug Estate owner Lord Newborough welcomed Michelle to the role and looks forward to seeing more new faces join them in the weeks ahead.

He is particularly focused on supporting the regional economy and encouraging more candidates from the local area.

“We are experiencing growth on the retail side, on the farm and there are always seasonal positions so it’s an exciting time to work for us,” he said.

“We are proud to be one of the largest employers in rural North Wales and one that is committed to the health, wellbeing, and development of our amazing team.

“As things get busier and busier – there is so much in the pipeline – a career with Rhug is definitely something that passionate, skilled people in our industry should consider.”

For more news and information including upcoming events, visit www.rhug.co.uk and follow them on social media @rhugestate.

For information on careers at Rhug you can email: retailandandhospitalitycareers@rhug.co.uk or officeandfarmcareers@rhug.co.uk. For opportunities with the Wild Beauty range, email wildbeautycareers@rhug.co.uk.

Organic farm estate inspires young brain cancer patient to develop photography dream

VISITING one of the country’s most picturesque organic farm estates has been a source of comfort for an inspirational young photographer recovering from brain cancer.

Luke Houslay, from Widnes, makes regular trips with mum Nina and dad Duncan to Rhug Estate near Corwen, North Wales.

So the 19 year-old was thrilled to be given his own private tour of the 12,500-acre site with head gamekeeper David Pooler – on behalf of owner Lord Newborough and the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation – to photograph a wide selection of animals, including bison and deer, and the Estate’s incredible wildlife and scenery.

Taking pictures is what Luke loves to do, and despite being forced to use a wheelchair because of his disability – he contracted medulloblastoma at just 15 years old, a cancerous brain tumour that starts in the cerebellum – Nina said being out in the open at Rhug is when he is at his happiest.

“We have always visited North Wales and have been to Rhug Estate so many times,” she said.

“As it’s one of Luke’s favourite places we have so many wonderful memories. He has been very ill so we bring him to relive his happiest times when he would run around and explore as a child.”

Nina added: “Luke sadly missed their recent open day when there was the opportunity to go on a tour and look at the animals.

“We contacted them via social media to see if there was another event coming up soon, and to our surprise they kindly offered him his very own private tour.

“As he is in a wheelchair it’s difficult for Luke to get around, but they drove he and Duncan in a vehicle so he could stop to get up close with the deer and other wildlife, something he would not be able to do anywhere else – it was wonderful.”

Luke has fought the cancer and its effects for almost five years, undergoing several surgeries, chemotherapy and radiotherapy and having to “learn how to do everything again” with the care and support of his parents.

“He had been ill for a while when we managed to get a scan, and was admitted to hospital the same day,” said Nina.

“He didn’t return for four months; it completely turned our lives upside down.”

She added: “Because of that and residual injuries he has had so many knockbacks and sadly can’t do some of the things he would love to do, due to the life-changing impact of what he has been through.

“He is unable to go to college and he wanted to join a photography class but was unable to, so the time he spent at Rhug taking photos was huge for him, it really helped his confidence.

“Luke loves being behind the camera, nothing makes him happier. He had to prop himself up to take the shots he wanted but has a real passion for it and took some lovely photos.

“He spends his days sat with me at home, so for Rhug Estate to go out of their way for him is so heartening, I don’t think they know how much it meant to us.”

The day will live long in their memories, as will his visit to the café, where Luke enjoyed his favourite item on the menu – a large slice of cake!

“He came home shattered but so excited, he doesn’t say much but he couldn’t stop talking about the wonderful day he had, he was ecstatic,” said Nina.

“Luke will always be on medication and will always need our care, and sadly he lost a lot of motivation and hope when he became ill, but for a few short hours he felt on top of the world, all thanks to the amazing team at Rhug – thank you.”

Rhug Estate owner Lord Newborough said Luke and his family are welcome to visit anytime.

“We are so pleased and proud to have been able to show Luke what goes on behind the scenes at Rhug, it was a privilege as we know what a supporter he has been of the Estate for many years,” he added.

“His photos are wonderful and really capture the essence of what we do, the nature and beautiful surroundings; we hope he will come and see us again soon… and bring his camera.”

For more news and information including upcoming events, visit www.rhug.co.uk and follow them on social media @rhugestate.

 

Foraged beauty range sweeps the board at Europe-wide skincare awards

AN ORGANIC beauty range swept the board at a Europe-wide skincare awards ceremony.

Rhug Estate, based near Corwen in North Wales, won seven medals including two golds and three silver at the Free From Skincare Awards.

The Estate’s Wild Beauty range, which uses natural ingredients foraged on site, defended the Best Brand title for the second year in succession and was a finalist in all nine categories entered.

Rhug also won gold for its Deep Cleansing Balm with Wild Berries (Face Care) and Nourishing Eye Cream with Elderflower (Eyecare).

The collection was founded by Lord and Lady Newborough, who were thrilled to see Wild Beauty continue its strong showing at the prestigious continental prizegiving.

He said: “To have been recognised in all the categories and pick up medals in seven of them, in what is a highly respected competition, is wonderful.

“The provenance and safety of our ingredients is a hugely important part of the brand, we do not compromise on ingredients, performance, and efficacy of our products.

“To have this recognised by these European-wide awards is a great accolade, particularly defending the Best Brand title, a huge achievement of which we are very proud.”

Lord Newborough added: “We are incredibly thankful to everyone who has contributed to this success, from our dedicated team to the many loyal customers who have supported us throughout the years.

“These awards are a testament to our commitment to creating high-quality, natural, and free from skincare products that deliver real results.

“We believe everyone deserves to have healthy, glowing skin without compromising on their values, and we will continue to innovate and improve to meet those needs.”

Each element of Wild Beauty, from the ingredients to the packaging, goes through a considered process to ensure it meets the Estate’s long-established environmental standards before being approved for use.

Awarded the highest certifications of COSMOS Organic, the Positive Luxury Butterfly Mark, Leaping Bunny cruelty-free, Vegan, Halal and Gluten Free, the range is also free from sulphates, GM ingredients, artificial fragrances, artificial colours, parabens and harsh chemicals.

The Free From Skin Care Awards celebrate and encourage skincare manufacturers who create cosmetics that exclude some of the allergens, fragrances and other ingredients sometimes associated with skin and health issues, ethical and environmental concerns, and which some consumers may need to or want to avoid, especially if looking for more ‘allergy friendly’ or natural cosmetics, and struggling to find suitable products.

For the full set of results, see the Awards’ website at www.freefromskincareawards.co.uk.

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

‘Unretirement’ award nomination for organic farm estate and beauty pioneer

THE inspirational vision and dedication of Lord Newborough secured another national award nomination.

The owner of Rhug Estate, near Corwen, and pioneer of the esteemed Wild Beauty range, is a finalist in the Unretirement Entrepreneur of the Year category at this year’s Great British Entrepreneur Awards.

The accolade recognises the ‘exceptional individuals who have defied traditional expectations and pursued their entrepreneurial dreams in what would typically be their retirement’.

“Age is no boundary to success,” said Lord Newborough.

“I am as committed and passionate as ever, I enjoy coming up with new ideas and there has never been a more exciting time to be part of the team at Rhug Estate.

“We are introducing new products, forging new partnerships in the UK and on the international stage and doing even more in our community, leading the way on sustainability and environmental projects.

“I may have several decades of experience behind me, but it makes me hungrier than ever, which has been reflected in this nomination.

“I look forward to the ceremony and thank organisers for their selection – there’s much more to come from me, I can promise them that!”

It is the second Great British Entrepreneur Awards nomination in a row for Lord Newborough; last year he fended off competition from thousands of other entries to win the Health and Beauty Entrepreneur prize following the success of their popular Wild Beauty collection, created from natural ingredients foraged on-site.

The ceremony was hosted by Grosvenor House in London – where it will be held again, on November 20 – and saw 1,400 entrepreneurs and colleagues unite to celebrate a collective £2 billion generated in turnover and over 17,000 jobs.

Founder of The Great British Entrepreneur Awards Francesca James said: “Every year I am blown away with the quantity and quality of applications we receive, and this year is no exception.

“I am truly inspired by the remarkable accomplishments of this year’s finalists. Their collective achievements of generating over £2.7billion in turnover and employing over 33,000 people demonstrate the exceptional impact they have made in their industries and communities.

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

To find out more about the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, visit the website: greatbritishentrepreneurawards.com

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

New face at award-winning organic beauty brand ahead of international expansion

AN award-winning organic beauty brand welcomed a new face ahead of further expansion in 2023.

Leah Mullard is the new Head of Sales for the UK and International at Rhug Wild Beauty.

Part of Rhug Estate, based near Corwen, the range is created from ingredients foraged on site and is widely recognised as one of the most sustainable, revolutionary names in the health and beauty arena.

Having spent more than 25 years in the sector – including 10 years in Dubai – Leah is focused on growth nationwide and overseas, notably the Middle East, the US and Canada.

Originally from Formby, she will divide her time between North Wales and London, where retailers – including Fenwick department stores – are forging new partnerships with the business.

Supported by husband Mark, she is thrilled to join Wild Beauty having admired its surge in reputation and stature over past years.

“I was already aware of the brand and always loved it,” said Leah.

“It’s a really special collection with beautiful products which are effective and natural, everything we say they are.

“Wild Beauty is a genuine lifestyle, given all ingredients are foraged on the Estate, and behind the scenes there is so much development and innovation taking place.”

And on the horizon is a strengthened focus on sales and distribution on the world stage.

“We are looking at potential new retailers in the UK, which is key, and exploring distribution opportunities in the Middle East, Canada and the US,” said Leah.

“We have been attending trade shows and meeting some of the top names in the industry, while also launching products and looking to further expand the range from next year onwards.

“There is so much going on, it’s an exciting time and I’m proud to now be part of the amazing team here.”

Rhug Estate owner Lord Newborough – who recently picked up the Health and Beauty Entrepreneur Award for Wild Beauty at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards 2022 Grand Final – is delighted to have appointed Leah at a pivotal time for the organisation.

“Leah is well-respected in the industry and will be a major asset as we move forward with our plans for growth into other areas internationally,” he said.

“And with more and more UK retailers looking to feature our products, a strategic and sustainable approach will see us continue to go from strength to strength – we are so pleased to have her onboard.”

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

New estate boss takes the reins at 15,000 acre organic farm

A PROMINENT name in North Wales agriculture will lead commercial land and property developments on a 15,000-acre farm estate.

Rhys Davies, from Llandyrnog, is the new Estate and General Manager at Rhug Estate, near Corwen.

He takes over from Emma Story, who will move on to become Strategic Lead for Nature Recovery and Carbon Sequestration as part of an upcoming Welsh Government project on Wales’s Designated Landscapes.

Having previously worked as a chartered rural surveyor, agricultural banking manager and latterly chief executive of Farmers Marts, Dolgellau – which during the pandemic became a world leader in the sale of sheepdogs online – Rhys is pleased to be joining Lord Newborough and the team.

“I’m delighted to be here and can’t wait to get started,” he said.

“Emma has done a fantastic job and I hope to build on that, focusing on further commercial opportunities on the estate, notably the letting and development of land and built property.

“I have been in the industry for a long time and hope to bring that expertise to this position, given there is so much potential to grow that side further.

“I enjoyed my time at Farmers Marts and am especially proud of how we pivoted and built a strong reputation in past years – in the face of unprecedented challenges – but excited to begin this next chapter.”

Based in Snowdonia, Emma’s new role will be focused on carbon and supporting the regeneration of ecosystems within Wales’s national parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

She says the experiences gained over seven years at Rhug Estate will serve her well in the future.

“In fulfilling my roles, I have learned so much here, particularly in the last couple of years as Estate Manager and on the renewable energy side of the business, the value of which I will carry with me into my new role.” said Emma, from Bala.

“Understanding the workings of different land tenure systems and food production systems is vital if we’re to face current challenges successfully, and as part of my job I want to help the agricultural sector through this period of change, especially given the uncertainty of recent times.”

She added: “I wish Rhys the best of luck and would like to thank Lord Newborough and everyone at Rhug Estate for their support and good wishes. I am sure the Estate will continue to thrive, and together they will unlock many fresh opportunities.”

Lord Newborough congratulated her on the new role and said: “We wish Emma all the best for the future and thank her for her dedication, commitment, and hard work for Rhug Estate over the last seven years.

“I look forward to working with Rhys, especially on new developments. He brings with him a great combination of experience and drive.”

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

Award-winning organic beauty range launches new products with foraged natural ingredients

A PROMINENT farm estate expanded its award-winning organic skincare range with the launch of two new products.

Wild Beauty from Rhug Estate, Corwen, is a wild foraged beauty brand founded by Lord and Lady Newborough.

The collection was unveiled during the Covid-19 pandemic and already secured a loyal following, drawn to its natural ingredients and formulas, and high sustainability credentials.

This autumn, a new Deep Cleansing Balm with Wild Berries and a Protecting Facial Oil with Bakuchiol have joined the existing Wild Beauty collection of eight skincare and five body care products, available at retail outlets including Fortnum and Mason, and John Bell & Croyden.

Lord Newborough said: “Everything we make is built on our respect for the environment and our heartfelt wish to create something truly exceptional, inspired by our beautiful surroundings here in North Wales.”

Each element from the ingredients through to the packaging goes through a considered process to ensure it meets the Estate’s long-established environmental standards before being approved for use.

Awarded the highest certifications of COSMOS, Leaping Bunny cruelty-free, Vegan, Halal and Gluten Free, the range is also free from sulphates, GM ingredients, artificial fragrances, artificial colours, parabens and harsh chemicals.

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