As we approach the final days before Christmas, it's the turn of Faresh Maisuria, Blueberry Marketing Solutions Managing Director to continue our 2025 popular festive spotlight—featuring regional businesspeople from across the north answering 12 quickfire questions.

1. What were you hoping to achieve by December when you sat down in January, and did you get there?

At the start of the year, our goal was to establish a more connected and focused team to support our growth. Advancing to a new level and recruiting staff always pose challenges in preserving our culture. We believed that enhancing productivity and refining our processes would better prepare us for this next phase. Have we succeeded? We’ve made significant progress, but the journey continues.

2. Tell us about three moments from 2025 that made you proud of your business/organisation.

Seeing the real-world impact of our EMI scheme
Our EMI matured at the end of 2024, and it’s been nothing short of inspiring to see how our team has benefited from it. Whether they have been making home deposits, celebrating weddings or marking personal milestones, every moment has been a joy to witness. It truly emphasises the importance of long-term, people-centred initiatives.

Key client wins
Earlier this year, we participated in a selection process to secure the AA account and successfully outperformed some major national competitors. Additionally, several team members did an outstanding job developing our concepts and taking the lead. It was a proud moment to see their efforts materialise.

Receiving recognition for our approach to people and talent
Being named a Leeds Rising Star by The Times was a big moment for us. Appearing in their business section was a real achievement. Getting shortlisted for Marketing Week’s Talent Trailblazer Award also demonstrates that our hard work is paying off. We’re proud that our “From Classroom to Career” talent pipeline is gaining recognition, helping create opportunities, develop skills and support future marketers and entrepreneurs. It’s fulfilling to have our emphasis on people and learning recognised by others.

3. What’s been your biggest headache this year?

Unpredictability. The external environment is constantly shifting, creating pressure and uncertainty for some of our customers. However, unpredictability also presents opportunities. The key challenge has been staying proactive, adaptable and focused on where we can deliver the greatest value.

4. If you had to describe 2025 using a Christmas film title, which would you choose?

It’s a Wonderful Life because focusing on your people and purpose gives you so much to be grateful for.

5. What’s your number one priority when the office reopens in January?

Getting back to the gym to burn off all that excess turkey! The first quarter tends to be our busiest period, so it’s good to start the year fit, healthy and raring to go.

6. Which business in the region has caught your eye this year – for all the right reasons?

I have had the privilege of taking part in the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Programme and know many peers who have gained from the Help to Grow: Management Programme, which is founded on a similar concept. I’ve come across many businesses doing great things, but one worth mentioning is Andrew Mason at DarkInvader. He’s a serial entrepreneur with an emphasis on purpose, core values and thoughtful business exits. He blends commercial acumen with integrity, demonstrating that you can be ambitious and genuinely nice at the same time. DarkInvader is an innovative AI-powered cybersecurity firm - it’s relatively new and one to watch.

7. Crystal ball time: what does 2026 hold for businesses like yours?

Growth, innovation and meaningful connection. We’re focused on continuing to build a culture where people feel empowered to experiment, collaborate and take ownership. We’re proud that over 25 former employees have gone on to establish and run their own businesses. We aim to further nurture that entrepreneurial spirit and enhance our commercial strategies by investing in digital tools to increase innovation and efficiency. 2025 marked our 20th anniversary, and we plan to extend the celebrations into 2026. While setbacks are a=unavoidable, it’s important to enjoy the journey. What’s the point if you don’t?

8. This Christmas, are you a “full production” household or a “feet up and telly” one?

A balanced mix of both. Spending time with friends and family during the holidays will be wonderful, but I also can't wait to indulge in a healthy dose of trash TV. It’s about enjoying the season without overcomplicating it. 

9. Cracker, Brussels sprouts, or pudding - which one best describes your year?

I’d say our year has been a blend of all three! We’ve faced surprises, unpredictability, and some tough moments, but we’ve also enjoyed many sweet highlights. Overall, it’s been a varied, challenging and truly rewarding year.

10. Which business book, podcast or piece of advice has been your “surprise hit” of the year?

Phil Fraser’s Leeds Business Podcast. It’s a brilliant mix of stories, lessons and perspectives from local businesses and charities. Inspiring, grounding, and occasionally surprising, the podcast offers fresh perspectives on resilience, creativity and making an impact. Plus, it’s great to hear from real people’s perspectives, even in adversity; there were lessons and positives to take.

11. As you wind down for the festive break, what are you most looking forward to switching off from?

Emails! I’m looking forward to taking a step back, recharging, and spending quality time with loved ones without the constant ping of the inbox. 

12. In 25 words or fewer, what would you say to your customers, teams and stakeholders as we head into 2026?

2026 will present its challenges, but each one is an opportunity to learn, adapt and grow. It’s all about controlling what you can.