Hobbycraft Group UK celebrates ‘make do and mend' but it recognises, too, that as it grows it can use its buying power to drive positive change. Founded in 1995 and now the nation's largest arts and crafts retailer, the group has over 90 stores. It is committed to becoming more sustainable, all the while focusing on colleague wellbeing, its store communities, and doing what is right with integrity and transparency.

Creative and knowledgeable Hobbycraft store colleagues advise customers on art, knitting and crochet, haberdashery, papercraft, baking, and jewellery-making. There are proven benefits associated with crafting and an individual's wellbeing, and Hobbycraft sees its role not only as sourcing and selecting products for its customers, but also as a provider of inspiration and advice delivered through its comprehensive online and in-store workshop programme.

The retailer values its colleagues and the contribution they make to the business; it is constantly working to ensure it creates an environment where colleagues are proud of where they work and enthusiastic about the products they sell and services they provide.

Hobbycraft’s unique Artisan programme was born from this dedication to colleague development and helps nurture talent from within the business. It provides opportunity for expert crafters to develop in social media, enhance their craft, and develop their own businesses alongside their role at the retailer. First rolled out in 2019, the programme’s last intake in 2021 saw over 100 colleagues take part in the dedicated training, whilst also receiving additional pay.