We’ve got a lovely bunch of Coconuts!

Aug 23, 2024 | Coconut News, Coconut Team

As a bunch of crazy Coconutters, we’re always looking for the next project. What better investment is there than the wellbeing of our planet?

At Coconut, we’re all about doing things differently. This summer, our focus isn’t just on the wellbeing of our team (although we do care about that!), it’s also on the wellbeing of our planet. Because we know caring for our planet is as important as ever, we’re taking important steps to reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a better future.

What does summer mean to you? To our Coconuts, it means Summer training, sharing new ideas and of course, holidays! But whilst we focus on growth and renewal, we understand the environmental impact of our get-away actions can be significant. Did you know, in June 2024, the monthly mean atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration reached a record high of 426.91 parts per million (ppm, a 20% increase from the average levels in June 1990. From the carbon emissions of travel to the environmental costs of seasonal fun, there are many ways our actions leave a mark on the planet.

So, we’ve decided to flip the script. Instead of contributing to these environmental costs, AND never seeing where our money goes, we’re focusing on wholly and completely giving back to nature. So far, we’ve planted 3,556 trees and funded 16 projects on behalf of our clients through our partnership with Ecologi! The reforestation initiative with Eden Reforestation Projects is aimed at restoring ecosystems and combating climate change.

To learn more about what is being achieved, here are two projects we’re proud to support:

Zoba Debub Community Boreholes Project
The Zoba Debub Community Boreholes Project is a crucial initiative aimed at addressing the need for clean, safe drinking water in the Zoba Debub district of Eritrea. This project is bringing back life to communities by restoring and maintaining boreholes which had fallen into disrepair, due to inadequate management and high maintenance costs.

Matavén REDD+ Project
The Matavén REDD+ Project is a pioneering effort to conserve 1,150,212 hectares of tropical forest within Colombia’s Indigenous Reservation of the Matavén Forest. This project focuses on preventing deforestation and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while supporting the sustainable development of local Indigenous communities.

The Zoba Debub Community Boreholes Project and the Matavén REDD+ Project are just two examples of how we’re helping to deliver real-world benefits—by providing clean water, protecting forests, reducing emissions, and uplifting communities. So far, the impact these projects are providing is overwhelming.

To learn more about the amazing projects we’re supporting, check out the site here: https://ecologi.com/coconutmarketing

[1] https://www.statista.com/statistics/1091999/atmospheric-concentration-of-co2-historic/#:~:text=Global%20atmospheric%20concentration%20of%20carbon%20dioxide%201990%2D2024%2C%20by%20month&text=Monthly%20mean%20atmospheric%20carbon%20dioxide,they%20are%20growing%20the%20most.

Riding For Victory: Coconut’s Cycle Challenge!

Mar 25, 2024 | Coconut News, Coconut Team

For the countless women struggling to re-enter the workplace, Smart Works is a lifeline! Through interview coaching, and the donation of an interview-ready outfit, women are being empowered to change their own lives. Which is why Coconut embarked on a fundraiser to support EWiF’s chosen charity.

It’s been a week since the Coconut team of five, donned their cycling shorts and embraced the community spirit of the outside (or inside a sweaty gym perhaps). With pedals spinning for dear life but spirits high, our team of amateur cyclists pedalled their way to their goal targets, all in support of Smart Works’ mission to empower women in the workplace.

The journey was nothing short of exhilarating. From early morning training sessions to late night gym fixes, the team shared a sense of purpose and determination. Each mile conquered was a step closer to driving positive change in the world. As we pushed through the pain, we were reminded of the obstacles many women face as they try to enter the business landscape. To date, Smart Works has empowered over 35,000 women, many of whom are at greatest risk of economic hardship and discrimination. In the last year:

  • 44% of clients had been unemployed for over a year,
  • 18% had applied for over 50 jobs,
  • And 10% had applied for over 100 jobs before coming to Smart Works.
  • In addition, 37% were single mothers,
  • 16% have a disability
  • 52% were from an ethnic minority.

It’s no easy feat! So, we pressed on, determined to make a difference. Each member of the Coconut team had a goal: to cycle 100 miles and raise at least £100. But of course, we managed to top that, collectively raising £612! We’d like to thank our very generous donors for the support given to help us reach our target! Every penny raised will support Smart Works’ vital work in providing unemployed women with the tools and resources they need to build confidence – especially after a career break, or negative workplace experience.

As one client says, “I remember very clearly how bleak life felt when I visited Smart Works three years ago, feeling hopeless, like no-one would give me a job because of my depression. The hours I spent with the women there – I’ll never forget them; and I hold Smart Works in my heart.”

The Cycle for Smart Works Fundraising Challenge was more than just a bike ride; Our team was joined by individuals from all walks of life, each with their own reason for taking part. Some, like Nathalie Buckley (a new mother!!) were looking for a new challenge, whilst our MD Paul Clegg, wasn’t sure if his 30 year old bike still worked! Together, we shared our progress and had a laugh along the way.

When she finished, Lyndsey Hancock, echoed the thoughts of most of us when she said, “101 miles cycled! I’m NEVER cycling again!” But despite the sore legs, it was all for a good cause.

Coconut, together with EWiF, are proud to support a charity helping women reach their full potential. The Cycle for Smart Works Fundraising Challenge has reminded us of the power of collective action, and we look forward to taking part in

more fundraising challenges in the future!

Empowering Women in Business 2023

Oct 4, 2023 | Coconut News, Coconut Team

New to Coconut, and new to franchising, we sent Nathalie Buckley and Lyndsey Hancock to their first ever franchise event. Here, Nathalie shares what she loved about attending the BFA’s EWIB conference!

On Wednesday, 27th September, 2023, my colleague Lyndsey Hancock and I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Empowering Women in Business (EWIB) conference hosted by the British Franchise Association (BFA). As newcomers to both the worlds of Coconut and franchising, this event was an eye-opening and inspiring experience for us.

The visionary behind the operation, Pip Wilkins QFP, CEO of the BFA, ensured EWIB made a triumphant return, for its 10th year, with a resounding focus on the theme, ‘Making Every Moment Count.’ The event brought together a diverse network of women from various sectors within franchising, and it was nothing short of exceptional to be a part of it.

EWIB showcased an outstanding array of guest speakers hailing from diverse business backgrounds, and included:

  • Harpreet Kaur, co-founder of Oh So Yum Desserts & winner of The Apprentice 2022.
  • Sam McAlister, who provided exclusive insights into the notable Newsnight interview with Prince Andrew, titled “How to Convince a Prince.”
  • Eniola Aluko, a double-FA Women’s Cup winner and three-time Premier/Super League champion.
  • Pip Wilkins QFP from the BFA
  • Emily Price QFP also from the BFA
  • Anne-Marie Martin from diddi dance
  • Jane James from Little Voices
  • Lucy Campbell from Right at Home
  • Vicky MacQueen from diddi rugby
  • Rebecca Newenham QFP from Get Ahead
  • Amy Cridland from McDonalds
  • Suzie McCafferty QFP from Platinum Wave
  • Farrah Rose QFP from The Franchising Centre
  • Gillian McAteer from Citation

These extraordinary women and inspirational business leaders delivered an unforgettable experience throughout the day. They generously shared their personal journeys, experiences, and entrepreneurial wisdom. EWIB allowed us to delve into the importance of finding one’s passion, pursuing dreams with unwavering determination, and embrace the challenges that come with the journey to success.

As we absorbed the insights from these accomplished women, I discovered several key takeaways, which I will reflect on further:

“Inspire others to be the best versions of themselves.” – Empowering others is a path to personal and collective growth.

  • Pip Wilkins QFP, CEO of the BFA

“Plan your time to grow your business and create financial freedom for yourself.” – Effective time management is crucial for success and financial independence.

  • Harpreet Kaur, Oh So Yum Desserts

“Collaborate effectively, define your purpose, involve the right people, and encourage collaborative behavior.” – Building a strong support network and working together can lead to remarkable achievements.

  • Anne-Marie Martin, diddi dance

“Set realistic goals, practice self-compassion, and build a support network.” – Self-care and a strong support system are essential for navigating challenges.

  • Lucy Campbell, Right at Home

“Lift as you climb.” – As we rise, we should bring others along and share our knowledge and experience.

  • Amy Cridland, McDonalds

EWIB demonstrated that franchising is an inclusive and supportive industry, welcoming women from diverse backgrounds. It showed me how personal growth, self-empowerment, and the pursuit of dreams are not limited by our histories, but enriched by them.

EWIB also stressed the importance of adaptability, maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and investing in our teams. Additionally, it highlighted the value of readily available coaching and mentoring programs, which are there to help us thrive in franchising.

In conclusion, my first EWIB conference was an unforgettable experience, reinforcing my belief in the power of women in business. Lyndsey and I discussed how we’re now more motivated than ever to embrace our journey in franchising, armed with the wisdom and inspiration we gained from these remarkable women. As we move forward, we’ll carry the lessons of empowerment, collaboration, and personal growth with us, making every moment count in our own entrepreneurial endeavors.

To find out more about our journey into the world of franchising, read Lyndsey’s blog and explore her personal experience of EWIB through our partner site, EWiF

Coconut planting trees for Christmas… and beyond

Dec 25, 2022 | Blogs, Coconut News

At Coconut, we’ve been thinking differently this year. As well as focusing on the wellbeing of our team, we’re focused on the wellbeing of the Planet!

They’re a conscientious bunch, over at Coconut! Which is why, rather than contributing to the world’s emissions, they’re doing what they can to offset the carbon footprint of the team – and of their clients!

Every year, thousands of cards with pretty sparkles and cutesy designs, are sent across the UK. However, the University of Exeter discovered, in 2021, how sending just one card, produces about 140 grams of carbon dioxide. This is addition to those designs which are not combustible, or can’t be recycled. And these are just the cards. Add to this the impact of sending gifts, too!

So, in a bid to be different, and positively impact the world, Coconut Marketing have planted 2,000 trees on behalf of their clients for Christmas, at projects in Kenya and Mozambique, through Ecologi. Although neither country need Coconut trees, by helping with the reforestation programme of Eden Reforestation Projects, they’re making a difference on your behalf.

This is in addition to the individual tree planting activities some of the Coconut team have supported this year, through TreeApp. Planting, another 250 trees around the world.

The impact of this mindful gift means the Coconuts have saved 2.63 tonnes of CO2e or 8m2 of sea ice. The equivalent of two long haul flights, or 6,525 miles in the car! Happy Christmas!

Coconut has also supported two ecosystem projects on behalf of staff, something the whole team is supportive of:

  • Peatland restoration and conservation in Indonesia
  • This will help to protect habitat thought to be home to up to 10% of the world’s remaining Bornean orangutan population, so future generations can enjoy their antics.
  • Generating electricity from landfill gas in Brazil

The objective of this project is to collect the landfill gas produced in the Uberlândia landfills and use it to generate electricity, preventing environmentally damaging methane from being released into the atmosphere. The project expects to produce 354,968 MWh of energy during its lifetime.

Adam Lovelock, one of Coconut’s Directors says, “At Coconut Marketing, we’re committed to being environmentally responsible and supporting sustainable practices. Which is why we decided to donate to Ecologi, and support regeneration projects around the world, rather than sending traditional Christmas presents to our clients. We hope our contribution will have a positive impact on combating climate change, and encourage others to join us in supporting this important cause.”

What a lovely bunch, the Coconuts are!

To see and/or track any of the projects Coconut are supporting, visit: ecologi.com/coconutmarketing
Or, to start your own low carbon business forest, visit: ecologi.com/coconutmarketing?r=6390aa29224db807b7d14e56

Full Steam Ahead at Coconut Creatives

Aug 5, 2016 | Coconut News

While everyone relaxes on their summer holidays, the team at Coconut are still working at full speed! We’re hard at work making sure that we’re ready to fully support our clients throughout the busy Autumn recruitment period. We always tell our clients how important preparation is for franchise recruitment so we’re practicing what we preach and working to help our team improve their skills and develop their roles within the business.

Our team training is taking place in August as we restructure internally to make sure everyone in the team is utilised fully to bring an even more comprehensive range of services to our clients. Recognising the important of investing in our team is how we manage to stay ahead in our industry and keep our team happy and stronger than ever. We’ll be taking a few days out to regroup and make sure that everyone’s on track before we launch into the busiest time of year for franchise recruitment.

We spend a huge amount of time investing in our team to make sure our business is as strong as possible. Continuous training and investment allows us to develop new services and better ways of working so that our clients get the very best from the work they do with us.

In addition to training the team, we’re also working hard to launch brand new products for our clients in the Autumn to keep expanding our offering and to make sure that our clients stay ahead in THEIR industries. As the digital world continues to advance, we know that we need to stay ahead of changes and make sure that we are one step ahead!

Watch this space to find out more about our new products and services that will be released in the Autumn. Or contact us on 01725 511 673 or info@coconutcreatives.co.uk to find out more about how we could help you ramp up your marketing.

Coconut Sponsors Industry Event

Jun 13, 2016 | Coconut News, News

This month, Coconut Creatives is the Silver Sponsor of the bfa Annual Conference. As one of the biggest events in the franchise recruitment calendar, we’re so pleased to be involved and sponsoring for the second year in a row. We’re looking forward to seeing our clients, affiliates and new faces in the industry.

Not only are we sponsoring the event, our very own Adam Lovelock, Head of Online Marketing, will be joining the likes of Baroness Karren Brady and Iwan Thomas MBE by sharing his expertise and knowledge with attendees of the conference. As one of our technology geeks, Adam will be sharing his knowledge on ‘How to Transform your Business Through Technology’ at 3pm on the first day of the conference.

The conference is the centrepiece networking and knowledge sharing event on the bfa calendar and offers unrivalled opportunities for franchisors and professionals from the sector to make new connections, share invaluable advice and insight and be inspired.

“As our second year as Silver sponsors of the Conference, we’re looking forward to seeing new and old faces. The Conference is a great opportunity for everyone in the franchise industry to network and share their knowledge and advice with fellow franchisors and service providers. We always learn something new that we can take home and implement in our business to help us grow and develop. Coconut will also be sharing our own knowledge at the event to help others take away more information to continue building their businesses,” explains Paul Clegg, Managing Director at Coconut Creatives.

We will also be there to support our clients at the Franchisor of the Year awards. We’ve got a few in the running so we’re looking forward to hearing all about the winners and congratulating them on the evening!

To find out more about working with Coconut Creatives or attending one of our workshops in 2016, please contact us on 01725 511 673 or info@coconutcreatives.co.uk