NEWS
Mark Allsop ( right ) with Crafter ’ s Companion founder Sara Davies , chairman David Stern
( second left ) and executive director Simon Davies .
COMMENT
NEW COMPANION
Former Currys chief appointed CEO at Crafter ’ s
Crafter ’ s Companion has appointed Mark Allsop as its new CEO to support its dynamic growth strategy . Prior to joining the global craft retailer , which was founded by businesswoman Sara Davies in 2005 , Mark was COO and CDO at Currys plc .
Here , he was responsible for developing and leading the business ’ omnichannel , data and technology strategy across both physical and digital retail .
A high-energy and creative leader , Mark has extensive experience in delivering customer journeys through a combination of digital transformation , technology and data insight . Throughout his expansive career , Mark has held senior positions at NBCUniversal , Sony Pictures and Merlin Entertainments .
In his new role , Mark will be responsible for overseeing the next phase of growth for Crafter ’ s Companion , which will focus on the combined multichannel strengths of its TV
SARA ’ S SMART MOVE FOR CHARITY
Sara Davies is helping SmartWorks Newcastle to raise much-needed funds with a large clothes donation . Dragons ’ Den star Sara , who has been an ambassador for the regional arm of the national charity for more than two years , met up with chair Sophie Milliken to donate a variety of clothes from her wardrobe .
Some of the clothes will be sold at Smart Works Newcastle ’ s Festive Fizz and Fashion event in November and a number of items will be gifted directly to the charity ’ s clients .
Smart Works helps women get back into work , gain financial independence and transform their lives by providing free interview clothing and coaching . It can be accessed by anyone who identifies as female , is unemployed and over the age of 16 .
The Newcastle-based charity recently
and eCommerce platforms , whilst showcasing its products to millions of customers across Europe , the US and beyond .
He replaces former CEO Simon Davies , who is staying with the organisation as executive director , overseeing the company ’ s global wholesale teams and commercial partnerships .
Mark said : “ I ’ m excited to lead a team of passionate crafting and commercial experts to deliver a truly omnichannel business , underpinned with an impressive brand portfolio , whilst bolstering our product and service offerings for our millions of highlyengaged and loyal customers .”
Sara said : “ The search for a new CEO was an extensive one . We needed somebody who completely understood our company and its values but also someone who has the tenacity and drive to support us in achieving our full potential . In Mark , I believe we have found the perfect fit .”
Crafting Queen Sara Davies delivers some of her clothes to SmartWorks Newcastle chair Sophie Milliken .
celebrated its fifth birthday which highlighted year-on-year growth of 76 % and a job success rate of 69 %. Since the start of the year , the charity has supported more than 727 women .
Sara said : “ I am so proud to be an ambassador for Smart Works Newcastle and I have absolutely loved working with them for the past couple of years .”
Sophie added : “ We are delighted to offer these pieces for sale at our Festive Fizz and Fashion event in November that will raise vital funds for our service .”
AXE-THROWING GRAND SLAM IN AYCLIFFE !
Valhalla North Axe Throwing are excited to be hosting the first annual UK Open IATF Grand Slam Tournament on August 18 and 19 .
This will be the first tournament of its kind in Europe , and we have people coming from across Europe , the US and Canada to compete at our premises here on Aycliffe Business Park .
The International Axe Throwing Federation ( IATF ) have awarded this tournament Grand Slam status , making us one of only six venues in the world hosting the highest tier of tournament other than the International Championships in Toronto .
So this is a huge deal for us , Newton Aycliffe , County Durham and the UK !
This tournament will form part of the new road to the International Axe Throwing Championships ( IATC ) 2024 and see the top four finishers in the UK Open European Grand Slam earning spots in the final round of IATC 2024 in Toronto .
The main tournament will take place on Saturday , August 19 , but we will also be hosting other tournaments over the weekend for people to get involved in . We are also welcoming spectators throughout the weekend free of charge , so feel free to come down , have a beer and watch the action unfold .
We are looking for and welcoming sponsors for the event , and have sponsorship packages available .
This is a great chance to support a small business within the ABP community , without spending too much , with sponsorship packages starting from as little as £ 100 .
If you want to get involved or would like more info , just send an email to contact @ valhallanorth . co . uk .
Kat Howe Director , Valhalla North Axe Throwing
The magazine for Aycliffe Business Park | 7