Scaling with Purpose: How Values-Driven Businesses Are Changing the Game
Posted on 14th February 2025 at 14:24
What does it take to build a business that not only thrives but also makes a real impact?
This week on ScaleUp Radio, we spoke with Nick Hunt, founder of Cotswold Lakes Brew Co., and Sarah Simons, founder of British Baby Box. Despite being in completely different industries craft beer and baby products both have one thing in common: a relentless commitment to purpose-driven business.
From sustainable brewing to supporting vulnerable families, their journeys reveal powerful lessons in balancing profit with purpose, overcoming challenges, and staying true to core values.
Cotswold Lakes Brew Co.: Brewing with a Bigger Mission
For Nick Hunt, launching a brewery was never just about beer—it was about creating a business that serves a greater purpose.
Key Takeaways from Nick’s Journey:
Purpose & Profit Go Hand in Hand: Some believe you have to choose between doing good and making money. Nick challenges this mindset, saying, "If you behave with integrity and do good things, good things will happen."
Business as a Community Hub: The brewery operates with a hyper-local focus—most of its beer is sold within a 20-25-mile radius. The taproom isn’t just a sales point; it’s a space for connection, sustainability efforts, and charitable events.
Sustainability is a Non-Negotiable: From using surplus bread in brewing to harvesting rainwater, Cotswold Lakes Brew Co. is proving that small businesses can drive big environmental change.
Building a Business on Values: Nick’s early team was made up of volunteers who believed in the vision. Strong values, he says, act as "tram lines" that guide every decision.
Nick’s Advice to Fellow Entrepreneurs:
"Slow down and enjoy the journey." Nick recommends Simon Sinek’s Start With Why and Oliver Burkeman’s 4,000 Weeks for those looking to build meaningful businesses without burning out.
British Baby Box: A Business with a Social Mission
Sarah Simons’ journey is a deeply personal one. Having faced a challenging childhood, she wanted to create a product that provided new parents with dignity, security, and support.
Key Takeaways from Sarah’s Journey:
More Than a Product—A Lifeline: The British Baby Box isn’t just a gift—it’s a safe sleeping space for newborns, designed with a strong social mission at its heart.
Establishing Credibility in an Emerging Market: To prove the quality and safety of baby boxes, Sarah spent over four years developing the first-ever British Standard for them.
A Business Model Shift That Led to Growth: Initially selling direct to consumers, Sarah pivoted to partnering with councils, charities, and baby banks, ensuring her product reaches families in real need.
Scaling with Impact: British Baby Box is now exploring European expansion, proving that businesses built on strong values can scale internationally without losing their purpose.
Sarah’s Advice to Business Owners:
"Believe in yourself and be passionate about what you do." Sarah’s unwavering self-belief helped her navigate setbacks and turn her vision into reality.
What Can We Learn From These Founders?
Nick and Sarah show that business success isn’t just about revenue it’s about the impact you make. Their journeys highlight five key lessons for any entrepreneur:
Purpose fuels profitability – When your business has a clear mission, it attracts loyal customers and engaged employees.
Community matters – Whether it's a taproom or a baby bank partnership, deep local connections create long-term success.
Sustainability is a business advantage – Both founders have proven that environmentally and socially conscious businesses can thrive.
Credibility builds trust – Obtaining certifications, industry recognition, and strategic partnerships is key to long-term growth.
Challenges are part of the process – Whether it’s cash flow struggles or navigating industry regulations, resilience is non-negotiable.
If you’re an entrepreneur looking to scale with purpose, take inspiration from Nick and Sarah—because the best businesses don’t just make money. They make a difference.
How BizSmart Supports Scaling Businesses
Scaling your business doesn’t have to be a solo journey. At BizSmart, we provide resources and frameworks designed to support leaders like you. Here’s how we can help:
🎙️ ScaleUp Radio – Tune into episodes for inspiring stories and practical strategies to scale your business. Learn from real-world experiences like Nick’s and Sarah’s.
📊 SmartBoards® and Smart90® – Our programs provide strategic clarity, accountability, and a peer community to navigate challenges. With 90-day planning cycles and expert coaching, you can focus on what matters most.
📖 Kevin Brent’s Book, The Entrepreneurial ScaleUp System – A step-by-step guide drawing on BizSmart’s experience to help you build a business that supports your goals.
🎧 Bonus Insight: AI-Generated Podcast Summaries – For an even deeper dive, check out our upcoming AI-generated podcast episodes summarising key insights from these stories. Perfect for busy entrepreneurs, these summaries bring the most valuable lessons straight to your ears.
Take the Next Step
What’s the biggest challenge holding you back from scaling your business?
🔹 Discover actionable insights and proven strategies on ScaleUp Radio. Listen now and subscribe to never miss an episode.
🔹 Looking for a more tailored approach? Book a discovery call with Kevin Brent to explore how BizSmart can empower your growth journey.
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