Fairy Fest, a new hire and a better beer deal: The month that was August

August has been a busy month, in the best possible way. Family, structure, freedom and a bit of hard-nosed negotiation, all rolled into one.

A world of magic and make believe

Yes, I did just say Fairy Fest.

For the second year running we took Georgia to Fairy Fest at Hedingham Castle, and this year Isabella (Bella) came along too.

It’s a world of magic and make believe for a 3 year old. And I’ll admit, maybe I believed just a little as well.

Moments like that don’t move the needle on any spreadsheet. But they’re exactly why you build the business in the first place.

Building the structure

We hired a new Operations Manager this month. David will be overseeing operations across The Gainsborough Spa, Tiger Fusion and Suffolk Hotel.

As a business grows, getting the structure and support right isn’t optional if you want that growth to last. You can only carry so much yourself before something gives, whether that’s the business or you.

Bringing David in is part of the plan I’ve been building towards for a while now. More structure, more support, and eventually, more freedom for me to step back from the day-to-day.

Freedom, put to use

Already I’m seeing the benefit.

I got a few days away in London, including Arsenal’s first game of the season. Time I wouldn’t have had so easily before.

But it wasn’t just personal time. With a bit more headspace, I also sat down and negotiated a new beer supplier deal for Tiger Fusion, one that will help improve profits over the next year.

That’s the real test of freedom in a business. It’s not just time off. It’s time to focus on the things that actually move the needle.

Don’t sit back on supplier deals

A quick lesson from that negotiation, because it’s one worth repeating.

Don’t sit back and assume you can’t get a better deal. Re-negotiate with your suppliers at least once a year.

Prices move, markets shift, and suppliers won’t always volunteer a better rate. If you’re not asking, you’re leaving money on the table.

Looking ahead

September will bring more of the same mix I think August has taught us to expect: family moments, structural progress, and a few hard conversations that pay off.

David settling into his role will be one to watch, as will the impact of that new beer deal once it kicks in properly.

Remember, hospitality never stands still… and neither can we.

Dan