Early Life and Career

Scott Davies, born on February 2, 1988, in Newtown, Powys, embarked on his professional journey as a bricklayer. Although he completed his education at Newtown High School and pursued a bricklaying qualification, his life took a dramatic turn following a serious back injury at the age of 22. This injury left him unable to work for a year and prompted a shift from construction to entrepreneurship.

The Birth of Hilltop Honey

At just 23, Davies ventured into the world of beekeeping, fueled by an interest he developed while recuperating. With a modest £5,000 overdraft and no prior experience, he established Hilltop Honey. Inspired by a beekeeping book and supported by his parents, he invested in his first beehive and beekeeper’s suit, marking the beginning of his honey business.

Near the end of his first month, demand quickly outstripped his supply, realizing that in commercial beekeeping, 300 hives were necessary to achieve significant operations. Davies ingeniously partnered with local, often retired beekeepers who sought assistance in marketing their honey, creating a symbiotic relationship that would boost his fledgling company.

Growth and Expansion

Davies’s efforts culminated in Hilltop Honey becoming the UK’s second-largest honey brand, achieving a remarkable turnover of £44 million. With a state-of-the-art operation based in Newtown, which employs 130 staff members and produces over 1,000 tonnes of honey monthly, the brand has flourished, expanding into major supermarket chains including Tesco and Holland & Barrett.

In addition to honey, Davies diversified his product offerings in September 2022 by launching a peanut butter line and further expanded his operations with the acquisition of a small pâté factory in North Wales, known as Patchwork Pâté, in May 2024. Earlier in January, he also acquired a stake in Waterfields bakery chain, collectively employing 350 people across these ventures.

Personal Insights and Financial Acumen

Reflecting on his journey, Davies notes, “If I had not injured my back, I would have started my own building firm.” His entrepreneurial spirit shines as he articulates a desire to create a business from early on, albeit in a different sector than originally planned. Currently, Davies is proactive in managing personal finances, working without a financial advisor by learning investment strategies independently.

He emphasizes the importance of early financial planning, stating, “The most important thing is to start investing in shares or a pension as early as you can, to benefit from the compound effect.”

Contributions to the Community

Davies embodies a commitment to giving back to his local community through the Hilltop Community Fund, which provides grants to local businesses and charities. Additionally, he actively supports local sports teams by sponsoring kits for football, cricket, and rugby clubs.

Looking Ahead

In his personal life, Davies resides in Newtown with his wife, Ffion, and their three children, with another baby expected in April. He expresses his intent to use any significant financial windfalls to assist his family, further signifying a deep commitment to family welfare over personal luxury.

As Hilltop Honey continues to grow, Davies maintains his focus on his sector while simultaneously navigating the challenges imposed by economic factors. His journey from bricklayer to business magnate is a testament to his perseverance and adaptability.