May 2026 ertonline.co.uk


Bluestem Group takes on 75-Mile challenge


To mark sister company CEF’s 75th anniversary, a team of determined colleagues from Bluestem Group,


Batchelor, are preparing to take on an epic three-day fundraising challenge in the Forest of Dean this June. The team will canoe, cycle and hike their way


across an impressive 75-mile route, all in support of WellChild, a charity dedicated to helping children and young people with complex medical needs and their families through practical and emotional support services. With the challenge designed to honour CEF’s


including Group Manager Rebecca


milestone 75th year, the team hopes to raise as much money as possible for the incredible work WellChild does across the UK. Supporters are encouraged to get involved by donating via CEF’s fundraising page. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help make a difference.


Fans and supporters can also show their encouragement on social media using the hashtag #TeamBluestem. The adventure officially begins on 17 June, with


regular updates set to be shared on Bluestem Group’s LinkedIn page as the team tackles the challenge.


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“We confirm that the commercial agreement between BSH Home Appliances Limited and Combined Independents (Holdings) Limited (CIH) has now ended,” the statement said. “However, to help minimise disruption to our retail partners, we have


BSH and Combined Independents (Holdings) Limited (CIH) have confirmed that their commercial agreement has now officially come to an end, with both parties outlining plans to support retailers through a short-term transition period. In a joint statement, the companies said they are working together to minimise disruption for CIH members in the immediate aftermath of the split.


Forbes Group celebrates 100 years in business


The Forbes Group has marked its centenary with a special celebration recognising 100 years of family ownership, innovation and customer service. Founded in 1926, the business has grown into a nationally recognised company serving both consumer and commercial markets across the UK, while remaining proudly family-owned throughout its history.


The event welcomed colleagues, customers and partners, alongside distinguished guests including Councillor Rich Michalowski, who officially unveiled a commemorative centenary plaque during what was his final official engagement before the end of his term in office. Today, Forbes operates through two key divisions. Forbes Rentals provides subscription-based appliance rental services for consumers, while Forbes Professional delivers specialist B2B solutions, supplying laundry, ware-washing, TV, AV and digital signage products across sectors including hospitality, healthcare, care homes and education.


Speaking during the ceremony, Hannah Forbes, Director of Marketing and Brand Strategy, said the plaque symbolised “a century of community, commitment and relationships that have stood the test of time”. The company also paid tribute to founder Frederick Donald Forbes, alongside later generations of the Forbes family, including Stuart Forbes, who remains Chairman today.


Forbes additionally recognised the contribution of its long-serving employees,


revealing that more than 37 members of staff have each worked for the business for over 30 years.


agreed a transition period for the next two months whereby CIH members will continue to be supplied by BSH. Both CIH and BSH are focused on minimising any impact to members over the coming months.” The update follows confirmation earlier this year that the long-standing


relationship between the appliance manufacturer and the independent buying group would conclude at the end of April. The agreed transition period is expected to provide CIH members with continuity of supply in the short term, while both organisations manage the change and consider their next steps.


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