Zero2Five helps Hive Mind unlock M&S and export success
Hive Mind co-founders Matt (left) and Kit Newell.
Monmouthshire-based Hive Mind Mead and Brew Co has announced its debut in Marks & Spencer stores nationwide, marking a significant milestone in its growth. The company’s line of sparkling meads — including Pure Honey, Honey and Rhubarb, and Honey and Elderflower varieties — made with British honey, is now available in 50 M&S outlets across the UK.
Founded in 2018 by brothers Kit and Matt Newell, Hive Mind aims to modernise the oldest alcoholic beverage in the world. This retail breakthrough follows the company’s successful attainment of SALSA certification, a process supported by the Welsh Government’s HELIX Programme, formerly known as Project HELIX.
Over the past five years, Hive Mind has benefited from technical support provided by ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre at Cardiff Metropolitan University, funded through the HELIX initiative. Initially assisted in achieving SALSA certification in 2023, the company receives ongoing annual reviews and mentoring from ZERO2FIVE on food safety management, supplier approval, and traceability testing — crucial components for securing retail listings and expanding export opportunities.
SALSA, one of the UK’s most recognised food and drink safety standards, has opened doors for Hive Mind not only to retail giants like M&S but also to international markets such as Taiwan and Denmark. The certification has also facilitated the creation of two new full-time roles within the company, with plans for further employment growth.
Matt Newell, co-founder of Hive Mind, noted that achieving and maintaining SALSA certification, with support from the HELIX Programme, has been instrumental in its growth.
“Gaining this listing with Marks & Spencer is an exciting step that will help us reach a broader UK audience,” Newell explained. “The support from ZERO2FIVE’s industry expertise and collaborative approach has been invaluable, and we highly recommend their services to other food and drink SMEs aiming to elevate their food safety standards.”
Professor David Lloyd, director of ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre, added:
“Food safety certification schemes like SALSA are crucial for Welsh SMEs seeking to access national retail, foodservice, and wholesale channels. We encourage companies interested in these standards to contact us about the Welsh Government-funded support available through the HELIX Programme.”
The HELIX Programme, managed by four Welsh organisations, offers funded technical and innovation support to help food and drink businesses grow and succeed.
