Rum maker toasts £30,000 boost
A CRAFT rum business is toasting success following a £30,000 investment from the Richardson property company.
Burning Barn smoked rum was launched in Henley-in-Arden, near Solihull, by Katherine Jenner three years ago, after a huge blaze at the family farm.
Their house was saved by firefighters but the barn was totally destroyed. But from the ashes Katherine was inspired to launch her own brand of fiery smoked rum with distinct flavours.
Katherine’s business was one of three shortlisted for the Richardson family investment after a pitch competition at Birmingham’s Venturefest event last month. The Richardson family, whose business was founded in the West Midlands and now operates across the UK and around the world, were keen to support an emerging business from the area.
The other two finalists were Birmingham sisters Reena and Geeta Salhan, who have launched the Green Sisters business creating a range of Indian snacks that are free from a range of allergens such as gluten, dairy, nuts and sulphite, and Coventry-based Jeff Zhang, whose Beacon Helmet uses laser technology to improve safety.
Both runners-up received a £1,000 prize from the Richardsons.
Family spokesman Chris O’Connor, said: “We want to support early stage businesses.
“All three finalists are really promising. However, we thought the investment would have the greatest benefit for Burning Barn, allowing them to take the next few steps and move forward.
“Typically we are looking to support growth capital projects of between £1 million and £10 million and our portfolio is growing into a range of exciting business interests.”
The latest investment underlines the new direction of the family businesses that has been run by Martyn, Lee and Carl Richardson for the past 20 years and includes a range of property and investment interests.