FASTEST 50: Yorkshire’s character shines through when times are tough, says keynote speaker
Black Sheep Brewery has grown to become one of Yorkshire’s most recognised brands and distributes beer globally. In her role at the helm of the company, she understands only too well the hardship businesses in the region have faced in recent years.
The pandemic affected all businesses, but hospitality was particularly hard hit. Given the overnight closure of breweries, Charlene and her team at Black Sheep had to think fast and very quickly diversify to survive.
The brewery developed a strategy to take their business online and deliver direct to consumers which not only safeguarded the business but, long term, created a new revenue stream.
She will share her experiences in business at this year’s Fastest 50 awards, held in partnership with The Yorkshire Post, this Friday, March 3.
Ahead of the event, Charlene has been providing her thoughts on what doing business in Yorkshire is like in 2023 and why the region is home to some of the UK’s most innovative, determined and successful businesses.
“Well it’s been quite a ride, hasn’t it?" said Charlene.
“With many businesses still suffering from the impact of Covid, we’re also fighting rocketing inflation, effects of war, political conflict, climate change and industrial unrest.
"It would be easy to understand if businesses felt jaded and were struggling to find a way forward in the uncertainty.
"However, quite the opposite is happening as we’re back again to celebrate the fastest-growing, most innovative businesses in the region.
"Despite our woes, entrepreneurialism is stronger than ever, and I am extremely honoured to be speaking to some of the region’s most dynamic, creative and hard-working businesses, learning all about their success in the face of adversity.]
“I have worked in Yorkshire for over 20 years and I absolutely love the energy of the close knit business community.
"Yorkshire businesses have a very strong sense of unity and compassion, which empowers us collectively to achieve great things. One defining characteristic is our real sense of determination and grit to get through the worst of situations.
"Even in the light of failure, lessons are learnt that are carried forward to create innovative new ways to adapt and grow.
"We are naturally aspirational and make brave and bold business decisions which, as wonderfully showcased by an event like the Fastest 50, creates successful and profitable enterprise.
"The Fastest 50 encapsulates exactly what is just so great about Yorkshire businesses – positivity, passion and prosperity – and every business that’s made the list should be thoroughly proud of their success.”