Yes, even button-makers need a break and our annual summer leave is nearly upon us. So, please note that our office and factory will be closed between 11^th and the 22^nd August 2019 - the last shipping day before we close will be Friday, 9^th August. All orders received while we are away will be processed as soon as possible upon our return. No doubt we’ll be back full of energy ready for autumn.

Photo shows members of James Grove & Sons staff in front of the Bloomfield Works in Halesowen, c.1925. Courtesy of The James Grove Heritage Centre.

It has been bothering us for some time that our Eco buttons are being sent to our customers in conventional plastic bags. Well, that is about to change we hope as we are about to start trialling both compostable and biodegradable bags. The former is made from potato starch mixed with other biodegradable polymers which are designed to disintegrate in ordinary industrial compost in under 90 days. The second smaller bags are manufactured using oil-based polymers - with an additive that acts as a catalyst to accelerate the degradation process so that they biodegrade into environmentally-benign products in a matter of months. Made in the UK, we are hopeful that these bags will help us reduce our reliance on plastic and strengthen our commitment to a plastic-free world.

Following a highly successful time at last year’s MiB Live event, we are really looking forward to making a second appearance this year. The venue has changed, of course, but Kate Hills and her team have done a great job in securing space at the Business Design Centre in London, N1 for the two days of the 29^th and 30^th May. Together with a range of supporting seminars and great networking opportunities, it promises to be a fascinating show. No wonder a record number of visitors is expected again! Do come along and enjoy the event and do drop in to see us if you can – we’re located at stand C24 in the main hall. See you there. For further information go to https://makeitbritishlive.com/