Described as the UK’s Real Ale Capital and with a wealth of independent retailers selling from the city, Derby is as famous for its beer and small businesses as it is its Rolls-Royce engines and Bombardier trains.
And now Colleague Box, the personalised gift company set up when the Coronavirus pandemic was at its peak, has collaborated with three other local businesses – Derby Brewing Company, clothing experts Mr Shaw and The House of Jerky; a Long Eaton-based business which makes its own meaty treats – to create The Hop Drop Box.
Featuring three premium 500ml bottles of real ale, a 50g bag of home cured jerky and a voucher for 15 per cent off Mr Shaw’s ‘Hop Drop’ range of clothing, the gift box is already proving to be a best-seller for Colleague Box.
Adam Bamford, CEO of Colleague Box, is a long-time admirer of Derby Brewing Company and fashion brand Mr Shaw. He was thrilled when the pair joined forces recently to create the ‘Hop Drop’ range – what is thought to be the first-ever collaboration between a craft brewer and fashion clothing company – and asked if they would get involved with Colleague Box; the business he set up with wife, Natalie, in May 2020.
“I’ve been a fan of Derby Brewing Company and have, for a few years now, enjoyed their real ales both at the local pub and at home,” said Adam, “my favourite is Business As Usual.
“I have followed the Mr Shaw brand and watched as it has grown over the past few years to the point where I regularly purchase and check their website for updates. It is a fantastic collaboration between two highly respected Derby brands who sell premium products from the city.
“The House of Jerky – who make the best jerky I’ve ever tasted – seemed the perfect accompaniment to give ‘The Hop Drop Box’ that finishing touch.
“We believe that this box is great not just for the good people of Derby looking to support four local businesses but for anyone who appreciates fine things. I’m extremely proud to be associated with ‘The Hop Drop Box’.”
Karl Shaw is the brains behind Mr Shaw premium clothing.
Featuring a range of limited-edition t-shirts, hoodies and sweat tops – and boasting Derby County’s Rams TV presenter, Owen Bradley as a patron and model – the garments are Fair Wear Foundation certified and made from premium organic cotton and recycled polyesters.
“Derby has a rich heritage, a proud heritage and is also home to several superb independent, innovative small businesses who are creating a buzz during what has been a challenging year for everyone,” said Karl, who is also owner of Derby-based graphic design company Silver Birch Creative.
“The Hop Drop Box captures the essence of this and it’s an exciting collaboration.”
The Hop Drop Box is available via the Colleague Box website, priced at £16.49. Colleague Box offer free personalisation in all of their boxes as well as free UK shipping and packaging uses sustainable and recyclable materials.
To find out more, visit www.colleaguebox.co.uk or connect on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.
