The Willow Review

Participating in The Cambridge Willow Review, organised by Barclays Eagle Labs and facilitated by Small Business Britain, was a pivotal moment for me and my business. As one of the 150 businesses invited, I had the unique opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions about sustainability and its impact on small enterprises.

The Willow Review emphasises the commercial advantages of adopting sustainable practices. It offers actionable recommendations for government bodies, SMEs, and financial institutions to support this transition. For instance, it suggests that small businesses adopt a 5-point plan focusing on sustainable materials, optimised logistics, waste minimisation, renewable energy adoption, and partnering with sustainable entities.

The event at Barclays Eagle Labs in Cambridge was a testament to the collaborative spirit of the business community. The lab, recently retrofitted to reduce carbon emissions by 90% compared to 2018, serves as a hub for climate tech startups, providing them with resources to innovate and grow.

Engaging with leaders like Nick Stace OBE, who has a rich background including roles such as CEO of The Prince’s Trust and Chair of the Prison Reform Trust, added immense value to the discussions. His insights into strategic communications and organisational leadership provided a broader perspective on integrating sustainability into business strategies.

This experience reinforced my deep belief that profitability and sustainability can sit alongside each other. We don’t have to make massive leaps overnight—if every business took just one step towards sustainability, it wouldn’t be long before we had reframed business into something that prioritises both long-term growth and impact.

I encourage fellow entrepreneurs to explore the Willow Review’s recommendations and consider how sustainable business practices can drive commercial success, innovation, and resilience for the future.

A huge thank you to Nick Stace OBE, The Willow Review Co-Chair, and Karen Campbell of Small Business Britain for facilitating such an insightful discussion. Let’s keep pushing forward!  It was also a great pleasure to connect with Mark & Hayley Knight BE YELLOW, Leah Holroyd White Bicycle Ltd, George Phillips Phillips Hobbies Limited, Nicola Perring The Nest, Paul Hodson Barclays Eagle Labs

——–

For my part, coaching for CMR Focus + Growth, and building Conscious Entrepreneurs, continues to pave the way for purpose led businesses to create lasting impact—without losing focus or purpose.

——–

If you want to work with a values-led coach who’s aim is to connect you with growth and purpose without losing focus and purpose.  Book a call – it’s free

What could go right? 🙂