Peter Taylor, founder of Honey Thief is the latest regional professional in the hot seat as the p.ublished group of newspapers gives him just 10 minutes to answer our 10 burning questions.

What does a typical working day for you involve?

No two days are ever the same! One day I’m perfecting new cocktails with our mixology partners, the next I’m buzzing around events, meeting stockists or causing a little mischief with Arthur the Bear. At the heart of it all is sharing our love for honey and making sure every bottle or can of Honey Thief delivers a little sweetness with a wild streak.

What makes your company special?

Myself and the Honey Thief team created something completely new - the UK’s first hard honey liqueur. Made in Yorkshire with 100 per cent sustainable, ethically sourced European honey, Honey Thief is ‘naughty by nature and delicious by design’. It’s bold, versatile and playful, whether you’re mixing cocktails, sipping a spritz or cracking open a sparkling can.

Do you dress up or down for work?

It depends on the day. If I’m out meeting bar managers or doing tastings, I’ll dress to impress, but in the distillery and office it’s all about rolling up my sleeves and getting stuck in.

What piece of advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Take more risks, embrace the unexpected and don’t be afraid to create something that doesn’t exist yet. If it feels a little wild, you’re probably on the right track.

What’s your favourite Yorkshire venue for an event or team away day?

The Hooting Owl Distillery will always be special to me - it’s where we first introduced Honey Thief to the world. But I also love York’s buzzing independent bar scene, from Evil Eye to Kennedy’s, where creativity flows as freely as the cocktails.

How do you prefer to travel for business?

Since I’m Yorkshire through and through I love to drive across the county, stopping off in small towns and cities to share our drinks and meet people face to face. It’s part business, part adventure.

What’s your favourite place in Yorkshire to relax?

The Yorkshire Dales are hard to beat. Wide open skies, rolling hills and a picnic (with a couple of cans of Honey Thief, naturally) - it’s the perfect way to switch off.

Where is your favourite place to eat in Yorkshire, and what dish do you recommend?

I’m a big fan of The Shambles Market in York. The variety is incredible and the quality is always spot on. Grab some fresh street food, pair it with a sparkling Honey Thief and you’re in heaven.

What do you miss most about Yorkshire when you’re away?

The buzz of York’s community - from the independent food stalls to the lively bars - and, of course, the warmth and humour of Yorkshire folk. There’s nothing quite like it.

Do you have any business rules that you swear by?

Keep it real, keep it sustainable and keep it fun. I believe great drinks should be made with care for the planet, a sense of creativity and a big dose of Yorkshire spirit.


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