When Falkland Rural Enterprises Limited (FREL) acquired Pillars of Hercules—a beloved organic farm, vegetarian café, and shop on Falkland Estate—they didn’t just inherit a business, they inherited a team, a legacy and a set of operational complexities that required thoughtful integration. Expanding from a five-person operation to a team of around 45, the business needed far more than basic HR templates. It needed a partner who understood how to bring people, process and purpose together.

It was a significant moment for the estate—and one that came with major people challenges. From TUPE processes and onboarding, to absence management, recruitment and holiday policy, FREL needed guidance that was not only compliant, but practical, responsive and tailored to their new structure.

That’s where STEP HR came in.

From the outset, the STEP team worked hand in hand with Lynne Ogilvie-Niven and her team, offering bespoke support shaped entirely around the complexities of the business.

Unlike off-the-shelf templates or one-size-fits-all advice, STEP HR’s approach is rooted in real relationships. The team took the time to understand Falkland Estate, the evolving structure of FREL and the unique working culture of Pillars of Hercules.

Support included:

• A smooth and legally sound TUPE process
• Ongoing advice on managing young workers
• Guidance on maternity leave and family-friendly policies
• Help implementing fair and consistent annual leave processes
• Strategic input on recruitment, onboarding and team integration

“STEP HR was a vital part of helping us move through a really significant period of change,” said Lynne. “What stood out most is how personal and considered their support is. They really got to know us—not just as an employer, but as a business. Every bit of advice was tailored to our set-up, our people and our goals.”

What makes STEP HR unique is that it’s not just a consultancy—it’s part of a broader business support organisation. That means the team bring not just HR expertise, but a deep understanding of business growth, funding, operations and strategy. For businesses like FREL, this creates wrap-around support that doesn’t just tick boxes, but helps unlock real progress.

STEP HR continues to support FREL as they settle into their new chapter. And with a strong HR foundation in place, the business is free to focus on what it does best—nurturing the land, its people and a loyal community of customers.