Following in the footsteps of others including; Blenheim Palace CEO Dominic Hare and UKAEA’s Chief Technology Officer, Tim Bestwick, Managing Director of Hook Norton Brewery, James Clarke, sat down with host Howard Bentham to discuss some of the major challenges in the hospitality industry and what it means to carry the weight of a brand with such heritage in Oxfordshire.
Following on from the success of its first and second series, OxLEP has announced the launch of series three of its popular ‘OxTalks’ podcast, with the Managing Director of one of Oxfordshire’s most successful visitor attractions within the rural economy, Hook Norton Brewery headlining the first episode – which has now launched.
Hosted by seasoned broadcaster Howard Bentham, OxTalks aims to answer some of the biggest questions in business and share the real-life experiences of some of the county’s business experts, to support and nurture business growth in Oxfordshire.
As the Local Enterprise Partnership for Oxfordshire, OxLEP’s role is to champion the county’s economic potential, acting as the driving force to create a dynamic and sustainable place to live, work and enjoy.
WATCH: OxTalks series three, episode one: 'Independent business: A guide to keeping up with changing times'
Upcoming guests on series three of the podcast are anticipated to share their insights and tips for tackling key business challenges, with topics including embracing diversity in the workplace, top tips for using AI in the workplace and practical steps to growing a sustainable business.
Listeners to episode one of the podcast can expect to hear James Clarke – Managing Director of Hook Norton Brewery – share his experience of managing the iconic Oxfordshire brand, having taken over as Managing Director from his late father in 2004 and as the great grandson of founder John Harris in an episode titled: 'Independent business: A guide to keeping up with changing times'.
James talks of the challenges currently facing the hospitality industry and the need for businesses to diversify, move with the times in-line with the internet age and remain flexible to ensure the brand loyalty of consumers.
“The pub industry is under a lot of pressure, mainly down to changing lifestyle, but – as sad as it is – we need to not lament the fact pubs have closed too much.” Says James.
“There are also lots of positive stories coming out of the industry and in most cases, if they are commercially viable, they won’t close.”
James also goes on to highlight the importance of innovating within the hospitality industry to keep it alive, citing food pop-ups, live music and the experience of ‘going out’ as a whole, as key considerations for those operating within the sector.
The managing director also goes on to reflect on challenges the brewery has faced, including the fire earlier this year, which saw fairly catastrophic damage to the stable block used to house the business’ shire horses (just one of the unique nods the brewery has made to the brand’s 175-year heritage).
The podcast finishes with James highlighting the future ambitions of the business – with OxLEP supporting the brewery in its ambition to invest in more sustainable processes – with an aim of getting to 50% solar renewable energy in the next year.
OxLEP’s Communications Manager, Rob Panting, also puts in an appearance to the podcast, sharing the support OxLEP has offered previously, and continues to offer to growing independent businesses within the county – through means such as access to finance guidance, innovation support and export training.
On the return of OxTalks, OxLEP Chief Executive Nigel Tipple, commented: “Following a successful first and second series of OxTalks, we’re delighted to bring the podcast back for a third series.
“Welcoming high-profile guests from Oxfordshire, OxTalks offers a unique insight into the key challenges and opportunities for businesses in the county and beyond.
“Our local business landscape is facing a range of challenges in the current economic climate, and the podcast gives us a platform to be able to offer business support and share invaluable knowledge.
“OxTalks offers an opportunity for us to not only share the support OxLEP can offer businesses within the county, but the guidance and experience of other successful business figures in Oxfordshire.”
The first episode of OxTalks series three will air on Monday 9 September, with subsequent episodes published fortnightly.
OxTalks is available on all streaming platforms, so you can listen wherever you get your podcasts.
To watch all episodes, visit OxLEP’s YouTube channel or the OxTalks section of the OxLEP website.
