Editor’s Note: Our research with Public first reveals AI’s potential to increase the average small or medium -sized business productivity by 20%, which effectively gives small business leaders an extra day each work week. The newly launched Google Workspace with the Gemini campaign illustrates “10 stories” of business leaders all over the UK using AI to solve business challenges, work more efficiently and take their business to the next level. Leaders of small businesses are eager to reveal how AI can increase their productivity and unlock growth can Learn more about these stories or Sign up for one of our AI works for business events. We talked to Matthew Pugh, owner of Stolys Fudge Dartmouth about how he uses Google Workspace with Gemini. Here’s what he said:
Blend tradition with AI-driven innovation
For almost 40 years, the sweet, crumbling aroma of Ruly’s fudge has been a fixture on British high streets. Our thriving business started everyone in Devon with only a 100-year-old family recipe, an antique copper cakes and the simple mission to create authentic, handmade fudge. This commitment to tradition, combined with a keen eye against innovation, has always been the essence of our business, fuel for our expansion and helped us grow. Ruly’s fudge you see today is a testimony to this delicate balance.
Scaling tradition, don’t compromise on it
Each of our 40+ stores still uses the same methods that our founders have groundbreaking – this dedication to our craft is our unique point of sale. For a fire that is so deeply rooted in tradition, embrace AI may seem unexpected, but it is the ultimate secret ingredient for brainstorming, helping us to think outside the box, become creative and stand out.
Eating habits have evolved significantly in recent years, and Google Workspace with Gemini helps us to adapt and innovate faster than ever, allowing us to quickly develop new flavors that utilize exciting new trends. For example, it would have been incredibly challenging to examine ingredients for sugar -free handmade fudge just decades ago. But now, using the Gemini app, we mix the old with the new – which makes research faster and in seconds get inspiration for alternative recipes that retain taste, texture and durability. Technology has been remarkable to allow us to accommodate a wider range of customers, while at the same time the authentic, handmade quality that makes us unique.
Adding AI to the ingredient list
As a small business owner, I have to admit that the phrase ‘generative AI’ initially first felt a world away from our traditional craftsmanship. For us, there was a little concern that such a strong technology could make things impersonal or dilute the human element. But our experience has been the opposite. Honoring our brand’s heritage and embracing future tools is not mutually exclusive. Gemini is the perfect creative partner that gives a springboard that our own teams can then bring to life with care in our copper pans.
Having gemini at hand has had a profound influence on our way of working. The time saved by initial research and development is the time I can now invest directly back in our people, our stores and my family. Looking at the future helps the extra productivity increase in building a stronger inheritance as I am now able to spend more time with my son, work closely with him to help push this business forward and prepare him to take the reins. This is the modern competitive advantage he needs to continue innovating and leading, ensuring that our family business continues to thrive in future generations.
Turns on your business with AI
Experience how Google Workspace with Gemini can help increase your productivity, sparkle creativity and fuel innovation by seeing the “10 stories” of companies throughout the UK that use AI to lock growth.