Blog

7 Mistakes you could be making with your new business.

I wrote this a while ago – focussing on drinks brands who were entering the market, but it really applies to any ‘brands’.

Lochindaal 16yo Islay Single Malt

What started with a passion for whisky and the isle of Islay let to lots of tasting and some photography too...

Testimonial; Henry Willard

I worked with Henry at a stage when he came from a recording studio position to starting his own business and was wearing many different hats at once...

Learn to let go. (aka; “Shikita ga nai”)

I’m sure a lot of people now know the term “Ikigai” – life purpose.It’s often used in coaching and personal development with regards to defining your personal meaning of life – taking into account your talents, passions and profession.

‘No’ and ‘Low’ alcoholic drinks…

The ‘low’ and ‘no’ alcoholic drinks sector is growing – (as is the ‘functional’ sector) – with many in the business stating that on-trade sales are key to connective consumers with the brands. I’m curious – have any of you sampled low or non alcoholic alternatives to your favourite tipple instead of opting for a soft drink?

Wine. In tins? It’s the future! Time to embrace change.

Many people I know are afraid of change, but the thing is – it’s inevitable.
Yes, ‘steady away’ might be a comfort zone for you, but new ideas and innovation comes from change.

Creative Curiosity. What’s yours?

Earlier today I had a regular call with a small group of trusted and respected people who help, support and encourage each other. In this week’s session, I was talking about how I’ve come to recognise (within myself) the need for a creative outlet; to create something from nothing, the desire to discover something new …

Aren’t all wines vegan?

Wine – it’s made from fermented grape juice, so it’s vegan, right? Unfortunately, it’s not quite so simple. Many winemakers use animal products in the “fining” process and have done for decades.

Tech Sales Mistakes – and how to avoid them

A while ago, I did a bid loss review for on behalf of an organisation I no longer work with. I was brought in as an external person as I wasn’t involved in the process (or given a bonus depending on it’s success or not) and so was a neutral party to be able to …

The marketing power of whisky tasting.

It’s been a while since I’ve done whisky tasting, but last night was a welcome return. Arranged by my client, The Wright Wine Company Limited and presented by Isle of Arran Distillers Ltd‘s Mariella Ramano, it was a fantastic evening.But as this isn’t Facebook, I’m putting my marketing head on with the following… Why was it so good? …

Are you a people pleaser?

There’s lots of talk of ‘finding your niche’ in my work, and it’s something that many people struggle with. Parts of your brain tell you to appeal to more people in more ways – and therefore sell more. (“A supermarket”) However, to charge true value and present yourself as an expert – you can’t be...

What’s your story?

What’s your story? When my eldest brother (left) and his wife owned a brewery, they’d often show people around – tour parties who would take in three breweries a day.These people knew brewing inside and out. So what was their interest?