AFTER an extensive recruitment process, José Peralta has been named the new Chief Executive of Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC), the red meat levy body.

José brings over 25 years of experience in the UK meat industry, having held senior leadership roles across several prominent companies. Notably, he served as Managing Director of the UK’s second-largest red meat business under the ownership of Grampian Country Food Group, Vion, and 2 Sisters Food Group. During his tenure, the organisation achieved annual sales exceeding £500 million, employed over 3,000 staff, and operated six processing plants across the UK, making it a significant seller of Welsh beef and lamb domestically and internationally until 2016.

Following this, José became Managing Director of Tulip Food Company, overseeing eight processing sites and generating over £500 million in annual sales of pork-based products. Most recently, he served as Chief Operating Officer of Pembrokeshire-based Puffin Produce, where he spearheaded initiatives such as the development of the Pembrokeshire Creamery milk bottling plant.

HCC Chair Welcomes New Leadership

Commenting on the appointment, HCC Chair Catherine Smith said: “The Hybu Cig Cymru Board is delighted to welcome José Peralta as our new Chief Executive. His exceptional leadership skills and extensive experience in the red meat industry make him the ideal candidate to guide HCC into its next phase of development within an evolving and dynamic sector.

“This is an exciting time for HCC as we continue to grow and strengthen our renowned brands, PGI Welsh Lamb and Welsh Beef. With the finalisation of our current five-year business plan and the shaping of our strategic vision for 2026 and beyond, our focus is on creating a roadmap that supports the sustainable growth of the industry as a vital part of the Welsh agri-food economy.

“We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Heather Anstey-Myers, who has served as Interim Chief Executive over the past year, for her dedication and hard work.”

Government Endorsement

Huw Irranca-Davies, Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, praised the appointment: “I am pleased that José Peralta is taking on this important role. His extensive track record in the red meat industry will be invaluable in advancing the organisation and ensuring it delivers the best outcomes for levy payers and the broader agri-food sector. Hybu Cig Cymru plays a crucial role in working with the Welsh Government and stakeholders to secure a sustainable future for farmers across Wales.”

CEO’s Vision for the Future

José Peralta expressed enthusiasm for his new role, stating: “I am honoured to join Hybu Cig Cymru and look forward to collaborating with the HCC team to champion the development and promotion of the Welsh red meat industry on behalf of our levy payers.

“Over the coming weeks and months, I will engage with levy payers and industry partners to identify opportunities for collaboration and partnership, ensuring maximum returns for both levy payers and the wider industry.”

José Peralta is set to assume his position on 20 January 2025.

Getting on top of your finances can feel daunting, particularly if you have hobbies that you don’t want to sacrifice. The good news is that there are plenty of ways you can save money without having to compromise on your favourite activities. 

With that in mind, let’s take a look at a few suggestions that could help you better manage your finances whilst continuing to do the things you enjoy most. 

Track your spending 

Before making any changes, it’s a good idea to evaluate your current spending. In the age of online banking, regularly checking your bank account couldn’t be easier and doing so can offer you more control over your finances. 

Consider going through your current outgoings and finding areas for improvement, such as overspending on groceries or identifying subscriptions you no longer need and cancelling them. You can use tools like budget planners to help track and manage your spending more efficiently. 

Use second hand equipment 

If your hobbies and interests require equipment, think about purchasing second hand instead of buying brand new. You can use sites such as eBay or Gumtree to find used equipment in good condition. Not only is buying second hand a great way to save money without missing out on the things you need, but it’s also less wasteful and better for the environment! 

Make money from your hobby 

Plenty of hobbies can be turned into an additional income. If you enjoy creating content online, consider monetising YouTube videos or joining the TikTok creator fund. If your interests involve creating things such as clothes or art, opening a shop on Etsy and selling your pieces is an excellent way to continue pursuing your hobby whilst earning a little extra. 

Downsize your hobby

Finally, downsizing your existing hobbies and interests is a great way to reduce the expenses that come with them. If you enjoy exercise, consider working out from home to save money on gym memberships. If you’re learning a new language, utilise free tools and courses. 

Alternatively, if gambling is more your scene, think about switching to online gambling. Online gambling sites typically offer more in terms of rewards than traditional brick-and-mortar bookies do. You can utilise sites like AskGamblers who make it easy to find free spin bonuses and sign up offers. Free spins bonuses are a great place to start as a beginner. You can typically use free spins on slot games and still land wins to later withdraw, given you’ve surpassed the wagering requirements.

Saving doesn’t have to be limiting 

Cutting back on your spending and saving money doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the things you enjoy. By keeping track of your spending, reducing unnecessary costs, saving on purchases, and even finding ways to make money from the things you enjoy, you can continue to live life to the full whilst improving your finances. 

RETURNING for its 17th year, Startups.co.uk has unveiled the Startups 100 Index 2025, spotlighting the most promising UK startups. Two Welsh companies, Deploy Tech and PlantSea, have been ranked 47th and 60th, respectively, in the prestigious list.

The Startups 100 Index is the UK’s longest-running showcase of innovative young businesses. It highlights startups demonstrating groundbreaking ideas, strong financials, market opportunity, and a loyal customer base. Previous alumni include household names such as Monzo and Deliveroo.

Recognising Welsh innovation

Both Welsh startups achieved additional recognition in this year’s awards. Deploy Tech won the Startups 100 Social Impact Award, while PlantSea was shortlisted for the Sustainability Award, solidifying Wales’ reputation for entrepreneurial ingenuity.

To mark the launch of the 2025 Index, Startups.co.uk surveyed 531 business leaders, revealing a surge in Welsh business optimism. Seventy-five percent of Welsh businesses expressed confidence in the year ahead—a significant rise from the 58% reported in 2024.

Championing ideas with impact

47. Deploy Tech
“The IKEA of concrete infrastructure for water storage”

• Founders: Paul Mendieta and Beren Kayali
• Founded: 2020
• Award: Winner of the Startups 100 Social Impact Award 2025

Deploy Tech revolutionises water infrastructure with its flat-packed, concrete-filled fabric solutions. These innovative systems are lightweight, easy to transport, and ideal for disaster relief, construction projects, and emergency responses. Collaborations with UNICEF and Oxfam highlight the global impact of Deploy Tech’s work, including earthquake relief efforts in Turkey.

60. PlantSea
“Tackling the UK’s plastic waste problem with seaweed-based packaging”

• Founders: Rhiannon Rees, Alex Newnes, and Gianmarco Sanfratello
• Founded: 2020
• Award: Shortlisted for the Startups 100 Sustainability Award 2025

Inspired by Bali’s pollution crisis, PlantSea develops biodegradable and compostable packaging made from seaweed and plant-based materials. Backed by the Development Bank of Wales, the company is scaling up its efforts to combat plastic waste globally, driving sustainable packaging innovation.

A message from Startups.co.uk

Zohra Huda, Editor of Startups.co.uk, commented: “Who says you need to be born in the capital to succeed? This year’s Startups 100 Index proves that inspiration, innovation, and ingenuity abound in Wales. Deploy Tech and PlantSea are leading the charge, thriving despite the challenges of the post-COVID era and current economic landscape. Watch out, London.”

About the Startups 100 Index

The Startups 100 Index is based on five key criteria: financial health, external validation, market opportunity, innovativeness, and strength of concept. Businesses featured must have launched in the last five years, be privately owned, and be UK-based. A panel of expert judges selects the winners.

For the full list, visit: Startups 100 Index 2025.