125. The Willy Wonka Office: How Ed Williams and Candy Kittens are Redefining the Workplace

Welcome to another episode of the Truth, Lies & Work podcast, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. Join your hosts, business psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, as they bring you deep insights into workplace culture, leadership, and creating an environment where people can truly thrive.

Guest Introduction: Ed Williams

Today’s guest is Ed Williams, co-founder and CEO of Candy Kittens, one of the UK’s fastest-growing confectionery brands known for its vegan sweets without artificial additives. Ed launched Candy Kittens alongside TV personality Jamie Laing, and their sweets can now be found in major UK supermarkets and worldwide. Ed is the driving force behind their creative and innovative office space, known as The Sweet Factory, which has redefined workplace culture and collaboration in the heart of London.

Key Talking Points:

Building Candy Kittens: Ed shares the journey of creating Candy Kittens from the ground up, starting as a "sweets company without sweets" to becoming a household name in UK grocery stores.

The Creation of The Sweet Factory: Ed and Jamie wanted their workspace to be more than just an office—it’s designed to feel like a "real-life Willy Wonka factory." Ed talks about how their headquarters promotes creativity, collaboration, and work-life balance.

Workplace Culture and Well-being: Ed explains the balance between fostering autonomy and maintaining high performance. He discusses their unlimited holiday policy and shares how B Corp certification has become central to their business philosophy.

Managing Millennials and Gen Z: With a young team, Ed talks about the evolving expectations of modern employees, from valuing purpose-driven work to seeking out benefits beyond salary.

Working with Jamie Laing: Ed discusses his dynamic partnership with Jamie Laing, describing how their complementary skills have been key to the brand's success.

Connect with Ed Williams and Candy Kittens:

• Ed’s Instagram: @edward_williams
• Ed'd LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-williams/
• Candy Kittens Instagram: @candykittens
• Candy Kittens Website: candykittens.co.uk
• The Sweet Factory Designer: Lick Paints on Instagram
• Book Mentioned: Shoe Dog by Phil Knight

Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If you’ve been affected by any of the themes in this episode or are struggling with your mental health, the following resources may be helpful:

• UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. If you are in distress or despair, including thoughts of suicide, call Samaritans for free on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
• US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
• Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country.

Connect with Truth, Lies & Work

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• Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
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• Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com.
• Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.