Vitality Hemp + LOXKIN
Driven by the need to reconnect people in communities with nature and the local ecology, Nathaniel Loxley began his business journey founding Vitality Hemp over a decade ago. Nathaniel took the time to share his experience of running a sustainable business.
About the Enterprise
Vitality Hemp is a social enterprise developing innovative lifestyle products that harness the power of hemp. Originally, Nathaniel was growing hemp for seed to produce oil to go into food products, but fairly quickly began diversifying the product range.
The product range has now become more distinct with businesses like LOXKIN which is a sustainable wood finish. Nathaniel described LOXKIN as "...food for wood because it nourishes the grain and you don't have to wear gloves because of the natural benefits of hemp oil."
Another product that Nathaniel has been developing with the help of Innovate UK has been Vital Acoustics, the Regenerative future for Acoustic products. This product is acoustic panels designed for places like schools, offices and hospitality venues. The acoustic infill panels help to absorb sound waves that create "sensory pollution". Poor acoustic design negatively affects neurodivergent individuals the most. This 100% biobased solution provides a healthy alternative to existing products made from synthetic and high embodied carbon materials.
The final piece of work that Nathaniel has been involved with is consultancy, working with two other professionals, specialising in policy, cultivation and life cycle assessments supporting those within the voluntary carbon market. Some projects have been international, but they are working more within the UK on hemp and natural building materials as well as the use of biochar.
Reasons to Celebrate
Being a social enterprise has been a true achievement. Nathaniel shared that the core mission of the enterprise is to have benefit for ecological and human health. The business holds those values and ethics as a core part of the business.
Nathaniel and his partners are working hard to see their products used more locally. As a member of the local Men's Shed in Emsworth, he really enjoys the community and how the product has been used by other Men Shed members through a discounted scheme.
He's recently collaborated on a project with St James's Church, Emsworth and identified this as a "really proud moment." Nathaniel spoke enthusiastically about being involved in more projects like this one and is interested in helping any business or individual exploring natural materials.
Pressure Points as a Micro Business
"I think being a lone wolf has been quite a bit challenging, but then Havant Business Growth Programme was very great at bringing lots of lone wolves and lots of small businesses together."
There are also challenges working in a highly regulated industry, but Nathaniel spoke about how important it is to him that he's on the right side of history, involved in "a more healthy environment and healthy future, it gets me out of bed every morning."
Lastly, like many micro and small enterprises, cash flow is very difficult, particularly as Nathaniel has focused on product development and innovation. Tapping into the opportunities available on a local- and national-scale has helped move projects forward.
What's Great About Living and Working in Havant
With a clear passion for the natural areas, Nathaniel raved about the access that Havant borough has to the coastlines, harbours and salt marshes. He noted how important these areas are to our mental and physical health.
"It's fantastic having these [the variety of habitats] on our doorstep and being able to live amongst these beautiful environments."
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