North East Times

Jan 17, 2025 | netimesmagazine.co.uk | Colin Young

Photography by Meg JepsonThere was always a pretty good chance Ben Cleary would work in the drinks industry – and not just because of his obvious love of beer and wine. His parents Tony and Veronica are the owners of Lanchester Wines and the wider Lanchester Group. Now in their 70s, they’re still driving a business that will next year celebrate its 45th anniversary, and remains one of the leading lights in the sector.

Jan 13, 2025 | netimesmagazine.co.uk | Colin Young

Photography by Ben BenolielJosh Rose’s brain and thumbs are in constant overdrive. When he’s not answering a question or involved in a conversation, he’s tapping into his phone. His friends and colleagues say it’s normal. And today he can be forgiven – Hii is saying Hi to Leeds. The latest venture – the Hii Grind city centre coffee house – is a week from opening. But there are still staff to hire, baristas to train, a bakery to source, a back kitchen to finish and signage to put up.

Jan 12, 2025 | netimesmagazine.co.uk | Steven Hugill

Congratulations on your appointment. With more than 20 years’ experience with the firm, you must be delighted to take this next step. I am. It is a real honour and privilege to have the backing and trust of our board and the Newcastle partners but, most importantly, the support of the whole office in taking up the role. I hope I can live up to their expectations.

Jan 8, 2025 | netimesmagazine.co.uk | Steven Hugill

A North East entrepreneur and celebrity business figure is set to rescue the venture that launched her career. Dragons’ Den star Sara Davies has agreed a deal to once again lead Crafter’s Companion. It is understood the move has saved the majority of the business’ staff. Ms Davies founded the hobbyist operator from her student bedroom while studying a management degree at the University of York.

Jan 8, 2025 | netimesmagazine.co.uk | Steven Hugill

A financial advisory firm has agreed a deal to buy a North East operator. Azets Wealth Management has swooped for Newcastle-based Chartered financial planner Laurus Associates. The deal is expected to be finalised in the coming days. Founded in 2002 by Karen Barwick and Colin Dawson, Laurus Associates provides personal and corporate advice across areas including trust planning, auto-enrolment, investment portfolios, pension property purchases and employee benefits advice.