Category: Blogs

  • Sipping into Spring and Summer 2024

    Sipping into Spring and Summer 2024

    As the days get longer and the temperature rises, there’s no better time for a fruity spring drink. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, relaxing at home, or soaking up the sun on holiday, nothing beats the satisfaction of cracking open a cold, refreshing drink.

    As specialist drinks recruiters we’ve explored a selection of cocktails, soft drinks, beers, and more, all infused with that summer flavour. So, get ready to raise your glass and toast to the arrival of spring and summer 2024!

    Soft Drinks

    Summer soft drinks offer a refreshing variety of choices. Brands like DASH Water, Nix and Kix, Vita Coco, Punchy Drinks, and Belvoir Farm provide unique flavors and natural ingredients. Whether you’re craving a classic or a fruity soda, these options will keep you hydrated and cool during the warmer months.

    Beer

    Embrace the summer beer trend of 2024 with a burst of fruity flavours. Jubel tempts with Peach, Elderflower, and Grapefruit-infused brews, while Camden Town Brewery introduces a zesty Lemon-infused Lager Top. Seven Bro7hers adds to the mix with their Mango Crazy beer. Beyond fruit-infused beers, many brands boast a variety of crisp lagers and bold ales, all ideal for sipping in the garden on a sunny day.

    Spirits

    Indulge in floral-inspired spirits: Chase presents its Hedgerow Elderflower Gin, Grey Goose delivers with its range of infused vodkas—perfect for crafting refreshing summer drinks. Cotswold Gin brings the essence of the countryside with its botanical-rich blend, while Hendrick’s Midsummer Solstice Gin offers floral flavors. Lastly, Copper in the Clouds introduces Flowerbomb Gin, bursting with floral notes.

    Energy Drinks

    Planning to get active this summer? Start the day with these refreshing energy drinks! Perfect Ted offers a natural Matcha energy drink, while Red Bull introduces a twist on their classic drink with Limited Edition Elderflower. Additionally, VITHIT provides a refreshing blend of vitamins and natural energy sources in various flavors.

    Cocktails

    It’s cocktail season, spice up your summer with these canned cocktails! Funkin Cocktails, Edmunds Cocktails, Savyll Beverages, and Moth Drinks offer a range of delicious flavours to enjoy. Sipping these in the sun is the ideal way to unwind after a long day.

    CBD Infused

    CBD-infused drinks are all the rage for Summer 2024, thanks to brands like Trip, Good Rays, Medahuman, and Unrooted leading the charge. By incorporating CBD into beverages, consumers can enjoy its benefits conveniently. From promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety to providing relief from discomfort and supporting overall wellness.

    Classics

    No summer drinks list would be complete without these classics: Pimms, Aperol, and San Pellegrino. Pimms, with its fruity and refreshing blend creates the British summer garden party vibe. Aperol’s vibrant orange hue instantly transports you to the streets of Italy. And when it comes to beating the heat or mixing up a refreshing cocktail, San Pellegrino is the go-to choice.

    Wrapping up our spring and summer drinks guide for 2024, we’re excited about opportunities available, both with the brands mentioned above and throughout the drinks industry. If you’re ready to start your new chapter,  reach out to us today, our specialist drinks recruiters will help you find your dream role!

    Check out our website to search our live job vacancies now!

    Or

    Get in touch for a chat so we can learn about you and understand what you want out of your career.
    ☎️ 0845 200 741
    📧 info@newchapter.co.uk

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  • Tempting Easter Alternatives to Chocolate Eggs

    Tempting Easter Alternatives to Chocolate Eggs

    It’s Easter this weekend, a time for family and testing just how much chocolate one person can consume. So if you haven’t had the chance to buy your chocolate egg yet or you’re simply not a chocolate lover, we’ve got a range of Easter alternatives for you.

    Browse through our selections, which include baking ideas and fun 2024 Easter treat releases, to find some inspiration.

    1. 'Easter Cookies'

    Who says you can’t just turn ordinary cookies into ‘easter cookies’?. It’s as simple as adding some mini eggs to your favourite cookie recipe. However, if you’re up for a challenge, why not try baking cookies in the shape of bunnies or chicks? Make it a fun afternoon easter baking activity.

    2. Haribo Eggs Galore

    More of a sweet lover? Haribo have an easter combo with their iconic fried eggs and easter egg shaped sweets, making it perfect for themed parties or as an alternative to a traditional chocolate Easter egg.

    3. Chocolate Truffle Nest

    The classic easter childhood treat, and super easy to make! All you need are some chocolate, mini eggs, and cornflakes to create these fun nests! For extra points, buy some mini chicks and add them to the top (just remember to remind people that these aren’t edible).

    4. Donut Designs

    One of our favourite choices for Easter treats is Easter donuts! Krispy Kreme has a variety of options in their Easter range, including a mini-donut range with easter nest/chick and egg themed donuts.

    5. Hot Cross Bun Truffles

    Abel & Cole have homemade organic truffles with sultanas, orange peel, and spices, making them a great easter treat. Perfect for anyone who loves hot cross buns, these have all the flavour in a bite-size mouthful.

    6. Feeling Healthy

    If you’re hosting an Easter party and need some healthy options, why not incorporate Easter-themed fruits and vegetables? You can create a vibrant fruit salad arranged in an Easter-themed shape or cut colourful veggies into a spring garden or Easter bunny design.

    7. Hot Cross Bun Pie

    Yet another hot cross bun themed snack, McDonalds bring to the table one of their classic pies turned Easter-themed. If you want to go all out on the hot cross bun theme, pair this with their hot cross bun latte.

    8. Easter Cake Inspiration

    If you’re hosting an event, an Easter cake can steal the show. You can find many creative and fun ideas on Pinterest, but we’ve selected a few design favourites to get you started:

    9. The Best McFlurry

    Yet another hot cross bun themed snack, McDonalds bring to the table one of their classic pies turned Easter-themed. If you want to go all out on the hot cross bun theme, pair this with their hot cross bun latte.

    10. Egg-citing Trifle

    This last option is different: A Crème Egg trifle, a great dessert after your Easter Sunday lunch. It has layers of Cadbury chocolate mousse, chocolate chip cookie, fondant, and of course, the classic Crème Egg flavouring.

    If you’re not only looking for new Easter alternatives but also aiming to use this bank holiday weekend to explore new career opportunities, we might have just the right role for you!

    Check out our website to search our live job vacancies now!

    Or

    Get in touch for a chat so we can learn about you and understand what you want out of your career.
    ☎️ 0845 200 741
    📧 info@newchapter.co.uk

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  • Your Ultimate Guide to Veganuary

    Your Ultimate Guide to Veganuary

    Are you participating in Veganuary with the aim of kickstarting the year with healthier lifestyle choices? As we enter a new year, many of us are seeking positive changes including challenges, finding new jobs, new diets, and exercise routines.

    Even if you haven’t started Veganuary yet, there is still time. So, why not try something new in 2024? We have gathered all the information you need to successfully complete the challenge! Similarly, if you’re looking to make that exciting career change and find yourself in need of a new challenge, contact us today to talk through our current FMCG jobs.

    What is Veganuary?

    Veganuary is a movement that encourages people to adopt a vegan lifestyle for the entire month of January. Similarly to other challenges such as Dry January and No Spend Jan, it’s a way to challenge yourself to give up bad habits and start the new year on a good note.

    Veganuary is essentially a trial month for going vegan. You can explore the benefits of plant-based living without the commitment, and who knows, you may see the benefits and decide to continue after.

    Benefits of Veganuary

    Health

    A plant-based diet has been associated with various health benefits, such as improved heart health, lower cholesterol, and better blood sugar control. This challenge offers you the opportunity to reset your eating habits, explore new foods, and improve your well-being.

    Ethical Living

    Veganism goes beyond personal health; it commits you to ethical living. By taking part contribute to the reduction of demand for animal products, therefore having a positive effect on the environment.

    Environmental Sustainability

    Choosing a plant-based diet can significantly reduce your environmental impact. By opting for plant-powered meals and supporting sustainable FMCG brands, you decrease your carbon footprint, conserve water resources, and preserve biodiversity. Veganuary is an opportunity to choose an eco-friendly lifestyle and make mindful choices to improve the environment.

    Fashion and Beauty

    Explore the world of cruelty-free fashion and beauty too – remember being Vegan isn’t just about the food. Discover FMCG brands and learn how to build a compassionate wardrobe and beauty routine that reflects your commitment to this challenge but also a more ethical lifestyle.

    The Veganuary Food Guide

    Vegan Ingredient Inventory

    Before diving into Veganuary, ensure your cupboards are stocked with essential ingredients. Whole grains, nuts, seeds, and a variety of fruits and vegetables will be the foundation to your plant-based meals. Explore local markets and health food stores for unique finds and vegan staples. Many FMCG brands now work towards creating alternatives to their classics.

    Grocery Shopping Tips

    Navigating supermarkets as someone new to leading a vegan diet can be an adventure. Seek out plant-based alternatives to your favourite products, such as dairy-free milk, plant-based proteins, and egg substitutes. Familiarise yourself with ingredient labels, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. Our recent blog on the best vegan alternatives might help you to find your new favourite vegan snack.

    Exploring Vegan Recipes

    Veganuary is the ideal time to explore a wealth of vegan recipes online or invest in a plant-based cookbook. From stews to vibrant salads, the world of vegan cuisine is diverse.

    Dining Out

    Eating out during Veganuary can be enjoyable with a bit of preparation. Check restaurant menus in advance, inquire about vegan options, and don’t hesitate to ask for changes to dishes. Many restaurants now cater to the growing demand for plant-based choices. Here is an article on the best vegan restaurants in London.

    Social Aspect

    You do not have to do Veganuary alone, join the supportive vegan community or find a friend to partake in the challenge with you. Social media can be useful to find others doing Veganuary, but also local groups can provide valuable insights and recipe ideas.

    Why not let Veganuary be more than just a month-long challenge — it’s an opportunity for personal growth, positive change, and a step towards a more sustainable future. Hopefully this guide helped you on your Veganuary journey!

    At New Chapter, we recruit many roles within the plant-based, FMCG industry, so if you want to go all-out for Veganuary and find yourself a new role at an ethical business, contact us today on info@newchapter.co.uk.

    Alternatively, if you just need some specialist advice from experienced FMCG, Consumer and Retail recruiters, we would love to help you out.

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  • Top 10 Games to Play this Christmas

    Top 10 Games to Play this Christmas

    The big day is almost here, and we’ve compiled a list of the top games for the whole family to enjoy this year. Whether you prefer classics with a festive theme or want to play something new, we have the perfect game for every family.

    Look through our recommendations and pick the game that will make this Christmas one to remember!

    Elf-Themed Monopoly

    Kicking off the list is a festive twist on a timeless classic, Monopoly. Join Buddy the Elf through New York City and collect famous landmarks on his journey, including Santa’s Workshop, Gimbels Toy Department, and the Lincoln Tunnel. Fun for the entire family, though it may get competitive!

    Buy now from Winning Moves for £34.99

    Nightmare Before Christmas Trivial Persuit

    A new rendition of Trivial Pursuit, this time featuring Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas. If you’re a huge fan of the movie, it’s time to test your knowledge with 420 trivia questions! How many will you get right?

    Buy now from Legacy Toys for £21

    Cluedo Christmas Crackers

    Experience a new and inventive way to play the classic Cluedo on Christmas Day. Enjoy the thrill of solving this murder mystery with the entire game inside your crackers. It makes for a great post-Christmas lunch activity.

    Buy now from Yorkshire Trading for £7.99

    Save Santa Escape Room Game

    Can you find Santa and save him before time runs out? If your family loves escape rooms, this festive game is perfect for you. With 13 challenges to solve, everyone will have to get involved.

    Buy now from Etsy for £13.91

    Christmas Emoji Movie Game

    A fun (and free!) game to play at Christmas. Think you know your Christmas movies? Test your knowledge with this free printable, and whoever gets the most correct wins.

    Download now from Play Party Plan for Free

    Inflatable Reindeer Antler Toss

    The Christmas edition of the classic hoopla, a fun game to enjoy with the whole family. Who will be crowned victor this year?

    Buy now from Fun Party Store for £4.99

    Pass the Sprout

    A fantastic game for the dinner table – a festive twist on pass the parcel with gifts and forfeits under each layer. Put on some Christmas music and unravel the prizes.

    Buy now from Dogs Trust for £6.99

    Christmas Scattergories

    This free group game is a festive edition of the classic Scattergories. It also comes with a simplified version, allowing even the youngest members of the family to join in the fun.

    Download from Creations By Kara for Free

    Do you Really Know your Family?

    Not specifically a Christmas game, but the perfect time to play is when all the family are together for the festive period. Complete silly challenges and compete against each other to win.

    Buy now from Smyths for £19.99

    Ultimate Christmas Board Game

    Are you a huge Christmas fan and trivia lover? This game is perfect for you. Get ready to test your festive knowledge with five different categories: general Christmas, movie and TV, food and drink, guess the punchline, and music.

    Buy now from Not on the Highstreet for £19.99

    If you’re looking for a new opportunity, check out our website to search our live job vacancies now!

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    Get in touch for a chat so we can learn about you and understand what you want out of your career.
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  • Best Beauty Advent Calendars 2023

    Best Beauty Advent Calendars 2023

    With the advent calendar season just around the corner, the clock is ticking for those who haven’t yet secured their beauty advent calendar to start the countdown to Christmas. From jewellery to makeup must-haves, these beauty calendars will allow you to discover new favourites!

    Let’s dive into our guide to the best beauty advent calendars of 2023, and hopefully, this can help you make the all-important choice.

    Soap & Glory: It's A Pinker Wonderland

    Kicking off our list is the advent calendar that promises a month of relaxation. Packed with 24 surprises, this one’s in the budget-friendly zone but still loads up on goodies for grabs. From scrubs to face masks, it’ll have you smelling and feeling great through the festive season.

    Buy now from Boots for £41.40
    Worth nearly £90

    DIOR: LE 30 MONTAIGNE

    Dior has unveiled their ultra-premium calendar, priced at nearly £600. It features a blend of Dior beauty classics and celebrates their range of fragrances, along with skincare and popular makeup products. If you’re after a premium experience, Dior is a fantastic festive choice!

    Buy now from Dior for £570
    Worth £3,400

    Cult Beauty Adent Calendar

    Arguably one of the most eargerly awaited advent calendars, Cult Beauty’s 25-day countdown is the retailer’s most extensive calendar to date. Featuring 39 products, of which 20 are full-size, it includes a selection of their most sought-after items and exciting brands!

    Buy now from Cult Beauty for £225
    Worth over £1000

    Diptyque: Scented Treasures

    Speaking of another luxury advent calendar, Diptyque offers an assortment of high-end home goods and scent experiences. Behind each door you’ll discover not only their signature scents but also three special-edition festive fragrances.

    Buy now from Diptyque for £390

    MAC: FROSTED FRENZY

    It’s back again! MAC’s advent calendars over the last five years have been very successful. Here’s their 2023 Frosted Frenzy Calendar, including 16 full-sized products and 8 minis, perfect for any makeup lover.

    Buy now from MAC for £170
    Worth over £485

    Jo Malone Advent Calendar

    Another fragrance filled callendar is from Jo Malone, complete with colognes, bath and body miniatures, a full-sized scent, and two travel candles. Whether you’re a fan of Jo Malone London classics or eager to find new festive fragrances, this invites you to discover your next favorite scent.

    Buy now from Jo Malone for £350

    Sephora: Favourites

    Following the sell-out success of its first ever advent calendar, Sephora UK has dropped an even bigger beauty selection. This calendar is filled with 36 products, 23 of which are full-sized, from their most exclusive and best selling brands.

    Buy now from Sephora for £189
    Worth over £1000

    Makeup Revolution: Glam

    The most affordable calendar on this list, Makeup Revolution’s 25 Days of Glam. Their popular countdown is back again and better than ever, with everything you need to from lip glosses to eyeliners and must-have accessories, the ultimate choice for a beauty lover.

    Buy now from Revolution Beauty for £34
    Worth £96

    Astrid & Miyu Advent Calendar

    If fragrance and makeup aren’t your thing, here is one of our top choices of Jewellery advent calendars this festive season. In fact Astrid & Miyu have a selection of three to choose from, all with best-selling pieces, exclusive jewels and amazing savings. Prices range from £395 to £995.

    Buy now from Astrid & Miyu for £325
    Worth over £600

    Charlotte Tilbury: Charlotte's Lucky Chest of Beauty Secrets

    Charlotte’s Lucky Chest of Beauty Secrets unveils 12 doors, housing 2 full-sized products and 10 makeup and skincare minis. Act quickly if you’re eager to grab this calendar, as it’s likely to sell out soon!

    Buy now from Charlotte Tilbury for £160
    Worth £225

    Thank you for reading our blog, if you’re not a beauty lover make sure to take a look at our food & drink advent guide!

    If you’re looking for a new opportunity, check out our website to search our live job vacancies now!

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    Get in touch for a chat so we can learn about you and understand what you want out of your career.
    ☎️ 0845 200 741
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  • Guide to the Best Vegan Alternatives

    Guide to the Best Vegan Alternatives

    As the world comes together to celebrate World Vegan Day, we’re thrilled to have our Senior Marketing Manager, Katie Leuw, share her favourite vegan alternatives.

    Today we are delving into the world of plant-based living, whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious about trying these alternatives. Here are her top selections:

    Planthood is more than just a brand; it’s a destination for plant-based living. They’ve made it convenient for those who struggle to know where to start with vegan meals. Unlike recipe boxes, their chefs do the hard work, cooking from scratch. You just reheat and finish the fresh bits in under 15 minutes.

    Indulgence meets health with The Raw Chocolate Company. Their range of raw chocolate treats is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients. From bars and buttons to hot chocolate powder, they offer an alternative for every chocolate lover.

    For those seeking plant-based protein options, Cauldron Foods is a game-changer. Their range includes tofu-based products marinated with herbs and spices, as well as falafel and vegan sausages. These are fantastic additions to salads, wraps, and stir-fries.

    Known for their creamy oat milk, Oatly has taken the world by storm with their range of dairy-free alternatives. From barista-style oat milk for your morning latte to rich and indulgent oat-based ice creams, Oatly has proven that oats can be a versatile and delicious substitute for dairy.

    Beyond Meat is at the forefront of the plant-based meat revolution. Their innovative products replicate the taste, texture, and aroma of animal-based meats, making them a fantastic choice for transitioning or seasoned plant-based eaters. Including chicken nuggets, burgers, sausages, and more, they offer an alternative for every meat eater.

    Violife is a leading brand in the world of dairy-free cheeses. Their range includes an array of cheese alternatives that melt and taste remarkably similar to dairy cheese. According to Katie, their Epic Mature Cheddar tastes just like the real thing!

    Nakd offers a delicious range of wholefood snacks made from all-natural ingredients. While their most popular products are their raw fruit and nut bars, they also offer Granola and Protein bars. Nakd provides an alternative to traditional sugary snacks that are not only tasty but also packed with essential nutrients.

    These brands dedication to creating high-quality alternatives is not only changing the way we eat but also reshaping the future of food. Whether you’re a committed vegan or simply curious about plant-based options, we hope you can try one of these products and let us know what you think!

    We are lucky to work with some of these amazing plant-based brands and offer great opportunities to become a part of their teams.

    Check out our website to search our live job vacancies now!

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    Get in touch for a chat so we can learn about you and what you want out of your career.
    ☎️ 0845 200 741
    📧 info@newchapter.co.uk

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  • Creepy Halloween Cocktail Recipes

    Creepy Halloween Cocktail Recipes

    We now find ourselves just under a week away from the spookiest night of the year, it’s time to prepare for your chilling celebration.

    Whether you’re hosting a haunted house party, or simply looking to enjoy a creepy cocktail, these Halloween recipes are sure to cast a spell on your taste buds. From a pumpkin punch to a witches brew, we have something for everyone this spooky season.

    Vampire's Kiss

    Dare to sip on the Vampire’s Kiss Martini, a concoction with bold flavors and a striking red hue. The perfect haunted drink this halloween.

    • 25ml vodka
    • 20ml raspberry liqueur
    • Ice
    • Frozen raspberries and red sugar to garnish, lemon.
    • Champagne, to top up

      Instructions:
    1. Chill a martini glass. Pour the raspberry liqueur and vodka into a cocktail shaker, add a handful of ice and frozen raspberries.
    2. Shake until the outside of the shaker feels cold. If using coloured sugar, coat the rim of your glass with a lemon, then dip into the sugar.
    3. Fine-strain the cocktail into your prepared glass and top with champagne.

    Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini

    This festive take on the Espresso Martini is the key to a perfect Halloween or any time of year. Pumpkin Spice Latte season only ends when you say it does…

    • Ice cubes
    • 30ml kahlua
    • 30l vodka
    • 30ml espresso
    • 15ml pumpkin spice syrup
    • Cinnamon for garnish

      Instructions
    1. Shake all ingredients together in an ice-filled shaker.
    2. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
    3. Garnish with 3 coffee beans and cinnamon.

    Eyeball Snot-tail

    The jellied texture and edible eyeball in this slimy cocktail is dreadfully delicious. Also easily made into a mocktail by removing the vodka.

    • 14g of lime jelly
    • 25ml vodka (optional)
    • 70ml apple & pear juice
    • 30ml lemonade
    • lychees
    • glace cherries
    • raisins
    • cocktail sticks

      Ingredients
    1. Make the jelly following pack instructions and chill until set. Combine the apple & pear juice, lemonade and vodka in a large jug and chill in the fridge.
    2. To make an eyeball, grab a lychee and poke a hole in a cherry with one of the cocktail sticks. Put the cherry inside the lychee and then push the raisin into the cherry. Leave on a cocktail stick.
    3. When the jelly has set, use a whisk to break it up into small chunks. Put into the bottom of a glass and add your cocktail mixture. Place an eyeball onto each glass before serving.

    Black Cat

    Lucky or unlucky, whoever gets served one of these wicked black cat martinis will definitely be counting themselves lucky!

    • 50ml gin
    • 25ml blue curaçao
    • 15ml chambord (or similar dark purple berry liqueur)
    • Squeeze of lemon
    • Sugar
    • Black food colouring

      Ingredients
    1. Fill a cocktail shaker full of ice.
    2. Add all your ingredients and shake.
    3. Dye your sugar black with food dye.
    4. Coat rim of glass with lemon and dip into black sugar.
    5. Strain into your glass and serve.
     

    Witches Brew

    Did you think coloured Halloween cocktails had to be sickly sweet? Think again! This vivid green cocktail will bewitch your guests.

    • 45ml gin
    • 15ml Midori melon liqueur
    • 30ml lime cordial
    • 4 basil leaves

      Instructions
    1. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake thoroughly.
    2. Strain into a chilled glass.
    3. Add mini ghost decorations or green gummy worms for the added spooky touch.

    We have some spookily good job opportunities for you! Start carving out your next career today!🎃

    Check out our website to search our live job vacancies now!

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    Get in touch for a chat so we can learn about you and what you want out of your career.
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  • Top Food & Drink Advent Calendars 2023

    Top Food & Drink Advent Calendars 2023

    The holiday season is fast approaching, and what better way to count down to the festivities than with an advent calendar?

    This year, brands have gone all out, now with a huge selection of advent calendars that go beyond the traditional chocolate squares. From cheese to crisps to gin we have wrapped up the top picks for 2023!

    1. Fever Tree Gin and Tonic Advent Calendar

    Is your favourite christmas beverage a cold G+T? Look no further than the Fever-Tree advent calendar. With 12 days of gin and tonic combinations, it’s the perfect way to kickstart the festive season!

    Buy now from Ocado for £65

    2. Prosecco O'Clock

    Isn’t it always Fizz O’clock somewhere? This offers a fun way to countdown to the big day or to gift to someone counting down to a special event!

    Buy now from Not on the Highstreet for £115

    3. Gourmet Marshmallow Advent Calendar

    Prefer a sweeter treat? The Naked Marshmallow Co. has released the world’s first Gourmet Marshmallow calendar, featuring 12 flavours tucked behind 25 doors. And if you enjoy them toasted, don’t forget to add their toasting kit to your basket!

    Buy now from The Naked Marshmallow Co for £20

    4. Pringles 12 Days of Advent

    Indulge in your love for Pringles! Enjoy 12 days of your favourite crisps in the lead up to ‘Crispmas’. Flavors include Original, Sour Cream & Onion, Salt & Vinegar, and Texas BBQ Sauce.

    Buy now from B&M for £10

    5. Candy Kittens 24 Days of Gourmet

    Prefer sweet over savoury? The Candy Kittens advent calendar holds a treat behind each door, and on day 24, you’ll find a full size bag to enjoy right before the big day!

    Buy now from Candy Kittens for £12

    6. Beavertown Craft Beer Calendar

    Elevate your Christmas countdown with 24 unique brews and a selection of extra festive gifts! Ideal for those who want to try something new but aren’t necessarily big foodies!

    Buy now from Beavertown Brewery for £69

    7. Gormet Popcorn Advent Calendar

    Joe & Sephs have revealed their most magical advent calendar yet! Featuring 24 treats with 19 unique flavours, it’s the perfect snack to enjoy on your festive film nights.

    Buy now from Joe&Sephs for £30

    8. Cheeseason to be Jolly

    Looking for something other than sweet treats? Consider indulging in a Cheese Advent Calendar, offering 24 days of mini creamy cheese truckles.

    Buy now from Chuckling Cheese for £45

    9. Swizzles Advent Calendar

    Looking for a simple, budget-friendly calendar, and not a fan of chocolate? This is the perfect option for you: every day you can tuck into some sweets!

    Buy now from Swizzles for £5

    10. Gin in a Tin

    Twelve unique gin tins for the lead up to Christmas – an essential for gin lovers this winter. It’s not just a calendar but could be given as a gift!

    Buy now from Sous Chef for £50

    11. Flapjackery Festive Countdown

    What better way to count down to Christmas than with a delicious flapjack flavour each day? Ranging from the classics to festive specials, there’s something for everyone!

    Buy now from Flapjackery for £65

    12. Vertuo Advent Calendar

    Are you coffee obsessed? Get your daily fix in the countdown to christmas with this Nespresso Calendar. With its extensive selection of premium capsules, it’s the perfect gift or well-deserved treat for yourself.

    Buy now from Nespresso for £45

    13. Lindt Advent Calendar

    This customisable advent calendar from Lindt allows you to select from their extensive range of flavours and you can create your very own festive treat box, complete with 24 Lindt truffles!

    Buy now from Lindt for £15

    14. Pip&Nut Advent Calendar

    Indulge in full-size dark chocolate Nut Butter Cups, a treat perfect for both nut and chocolate lovers to satisfy your cravings in the lead up to Christmas.

    Buy now from Pip&Nut for £20

    15. Walkers Shortbread

    Last but not least the dream calendar for the biscuit lover, a shortbread countdown! Each day brings a delicious shortbread treat, perfect for those winter mornings.

    Buy now from Selfridges for £23

    Thank you for taking the time to read our blog, we hope it can help you select your calendar for this festive season.

    Make sure to stay tuned for our upcoming blog on the top beauty advent calendars 2023!

    Check out our website to search our live job vacancies now!

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    Get in touch for a chat so we can learn about you and what you want out of your career.
    ☎️ 0845 200 741
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  • Top 5 Back-to-School Stationery Brands to Watch

    Top 5 Back-to-School Stationery Brands to Watch

    The back-to-school period is renowned for being one of the busiest times in the stationery calendar, if not THE busiest! With so many brands and options available, I’ve put together a list of my top five favourite stationery brands. This includes the key players in the market as well as the up-and-coming brands to watch out for.

    BIC

    BIC is a global household name known for producing affordable and reliable writing instruments. Their iconic Cristal Ballpoint pens can be spotted in nearly every classroom.

    My Top Pick: BIC 4 Colours Original

    Karst is a B-Corp certified stationery company using only responsibly sourced materials for their products. Their paper, made from 100% sustainably recycled stone, is tearproof, waterproof and is the smoothest paper to write on.

    My Top Pick: Softcover Notebook A5

    Pilot is renowned for producing exceptional writing instruments. Their selection of products includes fountain pens, highlighters, and erasable ink pens, and are made to deliver one of the smoothest writing experiences on the market.

    My Top Pick: V-Ball Grip 07 – Liquid Ink Rollerball pen

    Colart stands as a global leader in art supplies, with a portfolio of brands and vast array of products. They are a firm favourite of artists worldwide, including Picasso and Degas, whilst their brand Snazaroo is popular for school fairs. Their commitment to sustainability has earned them a B-Corp Certification this year. 

    My Top Pick: Windsor & Newton Cotman Watercolours Sketchers’ Pocket Box

    Tombow is a go-to brand for artists and calligraphers. Their versatile dual brush pens, available in a range of colours, are perfect for blending and creating intricate lettering and illustrations.

    My Top Pick: Tombow ABT Dual Brush Pen Set of 12 Sunset Colours

    Making the right investment in stationery can truly make all the difference during the back-to-school period. These brands and products are some of my favourites on the market now, but I’m excited to try out the new launches that this period brings. If you’re in need of support as a candidate or client in the stationery space, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

    To make an enquiry, email: katie.oleary@newchapter.co.uk or schedule a call with me here:

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  • Recruitment: Chasing Brands to Cultivating Relationships

    Shifting Priorities: Chasing Brands to Cultivating Relationships

    When I joined New Chapter Consulting Ltd and entered the world of FMCG and consumer recruitment, 12 years ago, my goal was to work with the LEGO Group. I loved Lego growing up and more recently, it’s often questioned who’s having the most fun when I’m playing Lego with my twin boys. From a business perspective, I have admired the Lego turnaround, adapting, and evolving from near bankruptcy to toy industry legend. These are what fuelled my passion to recruit for the iconic Danish brand.

    Back then, I judged my success as a recruiter by the brands I partnered with and how deeply I connected with their products as a consumer. I was fortunate to fulfill my dream early on by collaborating with Lego, a company where both their people and products were a source of inspiration. Fast forward ten years, and I’ve come to realise, that what fulfills me in recruitment isn’t solely about working with ‘sexy’ brands; it’s about the individuals I work with and the relationships I nurture with candidates and clients. 

    What truly makes recruitment enjoyable for me is the people themselves, those individuals I choose to work with, and how bought into them I am as a person and as a leader. They are the lifeblood of any company, instrumental in shaping its culture, driving its success, and ensuring long-term sustainable growth. It’s not just about the product, although it’s beneficial when both the product and people align.

    So, here’s why centering your recruitment career on finding people you genuinely want to work with, rather than exclusively chasing brands, makes the role fulfilling:

    At the heart of every successful brand is a team of dedicated individuals who are passionate about the company’s mission and values. The people you hire influence your brand’s reputation, customer relationships, and overall performance. Their expertise, attitudes, and work ethic are pivotal in steering the brand toward success and leaving a lasting mark in the market. While an exceptional product can take you a certain distance, it’s essential to place your trust in the right people. If you believe in the individuals you’re hiring for, you’re investing in your candidate’s future with their team.

    A thriving company culture is built on the collective values, behaviours, and attitudes of its employees. With the right hires, both candidates and managers can make a positive contribution to the company’s culture, fostering creativity, collaboration, and a sense of belonging. Conversely, poor cultural fit can disrupt harmony within the workplace. My goal is to place candidates into great cultures, recognising that it’s down to the people, not a company handbook. Finding the right people for a business allows me to shape and reinforce a culture that aligns with an organisation’s core values. It starts with having the right hiring managers and leaders in place. 

    When you have a strong manager in place, they are more likely to make informed and strategic decisions for the business. Therefore, this gives the candidate you place a clear direction on what they need to deliver to be successful in their role and make an overall positive impact on the company’s future. 

    I’m motivated to deliver great results when I buy into a hiring manager, and I like them. You want to do a good job for people you like and trust. It’s that simple!

    As a recruiter finding the right client is more important than finding a client. These days, I’m assessing if I want to work in partnership with a person, not a brand. What brings me satisfaction is knowing that I’ve successfully matched someone with an opportunity and a hiring manager that perfectly aligns with their skills, aspirations, and values.

    If you’ve made it to the end of this article and need support as a candidate or client within FMCG and consumer then please get in touch. However, be ready; I’m assessing you as an individual, not just the brand you work for 😉  

    To make an enquiry call: 07568107992 or email: rachael.carver@newchapter.co.uk

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