2025: A Year of Steady Steps, Creative Confidence & Quiet Momentum

As the year draws to a close, I’ve found myself reflecting on 2025 with a sense of calm pride.

Not because it was loud or fast (although at times it felt manic!) but because it was purposeful. A year of thoughtful growth, creative conviction, and moments that quietly reaffirmed why Barkworth Reeve exists in the first place: to create beautiful, practical British accessories that genuinely work, and to do so with integrity.

A defining moment in March

One of the most pivotal moments of the year came in March, with the launch of our sausage dog bag.

In a market where established brands such as Holland Cooper and Fairfax & Favor command significant attention and market share, it can be, quite honestly, intimidating to carve out space as a small, independent British accessories brand. The temptation is always to conform, to soften your edges, to blend in and tow the line.

But that has never been how i've worked, or what Barkworth Reeve is about.

The sausage dog bag was a conscious decision after many customer requests to pursue a blue ocean strategy, to go somewhere different, to lean into personality, humour and individuality, while remaining utterly uncompromising on craftsmanship, functionality and quality.

As Anita Roddick so brilliantly put it (and as I use to say to my old boss, Tom Joule):
“Go where your competitors can’t, and won’t".

The response was extraordinary. The bag resonated not because it followed convention, but because it quietly defied it. It proved that in a crowded luxury accessories market, originality still matters, and that being brave enough to stand out is not a risk, but a necessity in todays marketplace.. 

Expanding the wardrobe, thoughtfully

2025 was also a year of considered expansion across the Barkworth Reeve range.

We launched our first major piece of knitwear, the poncho, a step into new territory that felt natural rather than forced. Designed to be easy, flattering and endlessly wearable, it reflected the same ethos as our leather bags: timeless, practical, and designed to earn its place.

We also expanded into cut and sew leather and tweed gloves, continuing our commitment to traditional materials, craftsmanship and function, and allowing customers to build a more complete Barkworth Reeve wardrobe rooted in British country style.

Alongside these launches, it was the everyday heroes that quietly anchored the year. The pony purse and 4x4 keyrings became instant bestsellers, small but meaningful reminders that the most successful designs are often the ones that slip seamlessly into daily life.

Out in the world and in print

This year also meant parking the fear and showing up,  physically and visibly.

Alongside returning to favourite shows such as Burghley and Badminton Horse Trials, 2025 saw Barkworth Reeve exhibit at Royal Windsor, RHS Wentworth Woodhouse and HOYS. These events remain invaluable to us, not just for sales, but for conversations, feedback and building our connections and reputation.

Beyond the shows, being featured in publications such as The Field magazine and Country Living was a real honour. Both titles speak to an audience that values heritage, quality and longevity, and seeing Barkworth Reeve recognised within those pages felt like a quiet but significant milestone.

Growing through partnership

Another important chapter of 2025 has been the expansion of our wholesale partnerships and stockists.

Seeing Barkworth Reeve stocked by more independent retailers across the UK, owners and stores who share our values around craftsmanship, trust and long-term thinking has been genuinely exciting. This growth has been organic and relationship-led, and it reinforces the belief that the strongest brands are built through alignment, not acceleration.

Looking towards 2026

As we look ahead to 2026, there is a sense of excitement but also clarity.

Plans include new product launches, new shows, a website refresh to better reflect the brand today, and continued growth with the right partners. More than anything, there is a feeling of possibility, and confidence in continuing to follow our own path.

If 2025 taught me anything, it’s that bravery doesn’t always look loud. Sometimes it’s simply having the conviction to stand still, stand apart, and trust your instincts.

With HUGE amounts of gratitude

None of this happens without the people who support me and Barkworth Reeve.

Customers who choose us.
Stockists who champion us.
Craftsmen who bring every design to life.

2025 has been a year of creative confidence, strengthened foundations and quiet momentum. I’m deeply grateful and very excited for what comes next.

Happy new year for 2026.

Jennie x