Author: Luke Shepperson

by Luke Shepperson

Spooky Halloween Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Spooky Halloween Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Soft, chewy, and packed with dark chocolate chunks. The perfect Halloween baking treat.

Why You’ll Love These Halloween Cookies

These cookies are buttery, chewy, and perfect for Halloween baking. The dark chocolate gives them a rich flavour and a moody, seasonal look. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds balance and makes them sparkle under the light. The dough can also be made ahead of time and chilled overnight, so you can bake fresh cookies right before your Halloween gathering.

Ingredients (Makes about 15 Large Cookies)

  • 120g salted butter, softened (or use unsalted butter and add a pinch more salt)
  • 75g light brown soft sugar
  • 75g granulated or caster sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 240g plain flour
  • ½ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
  • 170g dark chocolate, roughly chopped into chunks or good-quality chips
  • Sea salt flakes, optional, for sprinkling on top

Method

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or Gas Mark 4. Line two baking trays with baking parchment.

2. Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, use a wooden spoon or electric mixer to beat the butter and both sugars together until they are pale and just combined. Tip: Do not overmix, as this can make the cookies less chewy.

3. Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

4. Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and bicarbonate of soda. Gently stir this into the wet mixture using a wooden spoon or spatula until a dough begins to form. Stop mixing as soon as the flour is incorporated.

5. Fold in Chocolate

Fold in the chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips. You can also add seasonal candy pieces such as orange M&Ms or candy eyes for a Halloween touch.

6. Shape and Chill (Optional but Recommended)

For thicker, chewier cookies that hold their shape, chill the dough before baking. Divide the dough into golf ball-sized portions and place them on your prepared trays. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for the best flavour.

7. Bake

Place the chilled dough balls on the lined baking trays, leaving plenty of space between them as they will spread. If desired, sprinkle a few sea salt flakes on top. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the centres still look slightly soft. Avoid overbaking to keep the centres chewy.

8. Cool

Leave the cookies to cool on the tray for about 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will continue to set as they cool.

Halloween Baking Tips

  • Make them extra spooky: Add candy eyes or orange sprinkles before baking.
  • Storage: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to five days.
  • Freezer-friendly: Freeze dough balls for up to two months. Bake from frozen, adding about two extra minutes to the baking time.

Perfect for Sharing

These cookies look great on a Halloween dessert table or packed into gift bags for party guests. Share your creations on social media using #HalloweenCookies or #SpookyCookieBake to inspire other bakers.
by Luke Shepperson

CDA makes history with Ethical Accreditation from The GOOD Shopping Guide

Good Shopping Good Ethical Business logo

We are proud to announce that CDA has become the very first kitchen appliance brand to achieve Ethical Accreditation from The GOOD Shopping Guide.

With a top-ranking Ethical Score of 89, CDA is now listed among the UK’s Top 200 Ethical Businesses, joining sustainability leaders such as Octopus Energy, Neal’s Yard Remedies and Green People.

This achievement is more than an award. It confirms CDA’s position at the forefront of ethical, responsible and sustainable business practices in the home appliance industry.

Recognition from The GOOD Shopping Guide

Kat Alexander, Director of The GOOD Shopping Guide said: “CDA’s Ethical Accreditation is powerful verification for today’s conscious consumers. This recognition, along with their top-ranking GSG Ethical Score in our tables, reflects not only strong sustainability credentials, but also a clear commitment to transparency and accountability. As the first brand in this sector to attain our independent endorsement, CDA now holds a distinct competitive advantage and raises the bar for ethical standards in the home appliances industry.”

A proud moment for CDA

Chris Ward, our Managing Director, said: “We are incredibly proud to be recognised with Ethical Accreditation from The GOOD Shopping Guide. This achievement is more than a certification. It reflects our values as a business and the commitment of our people to doing what is right for customers, communities and the planet. At CDA, we have always believed that great design and innovation must go hand in hand with responsibility. To now be ranked amongst the UK’s most ethical companies is a milestone moment that will inspire us to go even further.”

Leading the way in ethical appliances

CDA has secured top positions in four of The GOOD Shopping Guide’s Ethical Ratings tables for home appliances. Our product range includes cookers, dishwashers, fridge-freezers, washing machines, coffee machines, hobs, extractors and sinks.

Built on strong foundations

Since 1991, CDA has proudly operated from Nottinghamshire, showcasing British design and local talent for over three decades. We combine functionality with sleek design, backed by in-house customer care, dedicated engineers and a consistently high Trustpilot rating.

Why this matters

The GOOD Shopping Guide recognised CDA’s robust Code of Conduct, fair working conditions across our supply chain, and clean record of responsible production. This proves that ethics and sustainability are not an afterthought at CDA – they are at the heart of everything we do.

Our ethical accreditation certificate

The Good Shopping Guide Ethical Accreditation awarded to The CDA Group Ltd.

👉 Explore our full Ethical Score on The GOOD Shopping Guide’s website.

This accreditation is a defining moment for CDA. We are proud to set a new standard for our industry and to show that innovation, style and responsibility can go hand in hand.
by Luke Shepperson

CDA Managing Director Runs Nottingham Half Marathon Dressed as a Fridge  



On Sunday 28 September, CDA Managing Director Chris Ward will take on the Nottingham Half Marathon with a unique twist: he will be running the full 13.1 miles dressed as a fridge.

This unusual challenge is more than just a headline-grabber. Chris is running to raise funds for Harmless and its sister service, The Tomorrow Project, two organisations dedicated to supporting people affected by self-harm, suicide, and bereavement. With CDA Appliances match-funding every donation, every pound raised will have double the impact.

About the Nottingham Half Marathon

The Nottingham Half Marathon is one of the region’s most popular running events, attracting thousands of participants every year. The course winds through the city, showcasing some of Nottingham’s most iconic landmarks, and always delivers an electric atmosphere thanks to the cheering crowds.

This year, spectators are guaranteed an extra reason to cheer when they see Chris running past in a giant fridge costume. The light-hearted nature of the outfit adds humour and fun, but behind the costume is a serious mission: to raise awareness for mental health support and suicide prevention.

About Harmless

Harmless is a national centre of excellence for self-harm and suicide prevention. Founded in 2007, it is a user-led organisation, which means its services are shaped and guided by people with lived experience.

Harmless provides:
  • Direct support for people who self-harm.
  • Resources and information for families and carers.
  • Training and consultancy for professionals and organisations.
  • Campaigning work to reduce stigma and raise awareness about self-harm.
The charity’s mission is to reduce isolation, distress, and stigma while promoting health, recovery, and hope. By supporting Harmless, CDA is helping ensure that more people in crisis can access the right help at the right time.

About The Tomorrow Project

The Tomorrow Project was launched in 2012 after a series of tragic local suicides in Nottinghamshire. It was created to ensure that those affected by suicide could access urgent, compassionate, and practical support.

The project now offers:
  • Crisis intervention services for those experiencing suicidal thoughts.
  • Outreach support to engage with communities most at risk.
  • Bereavement support for families, friends, and colleagues who have lost someone to suicide.
Operating across Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, and Derbyshire, the Tomorrow Project has become a lifeline for people navigating the darkest moments of their lives.

Why CDA is Supporting Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

At CDA, we believe businesses have a responsibility to support the communities they serve. Mental health challenges affect people in every workplace, family, and community. Supporting charities like Harmless and The Tomorrow Project is one way we can contribute to creating a culture of compassion, understanding, and hope.

CDA has a proud history of community engagement, from supporting local initiatives in Nottinghamshire to backing national campaigns that make a difference. By sponsoring Chris’s fridge run, we want to raise both awareness and funds for organisations that are truly changing lives.

A Word From Chris

Chris himself shared why this challenge means so much to him: “Running a half marathon is tough enough, but doing it dressed as a fridge adds a whole new level of challenge. It’s a fun way to draw attention to an incredibly serious cause. Harmless and The Tomorrow Project do life-saving work, and if dressing up helps spark a conversation and raise more funds, then it’s worth every step. I’m proud that CDA is not only supporting me but doubling every donation to maximise the impact.”

Every Donation Doubled by CDA

To make every contribution go even further, CDA will 100% match fund all donations. That means every pound you give will be doubled, directly supporting Harmless and The Tomorrow Project.

For example:
  • A £10 donation becomes £20.
  • A £25 donation becomes £50.
  • A £100 donation becomes £200.
Every penny raised will be shared between the two charities, ensuring more people can access life-saving services.

How You Can Help

You can show your support for Chris’s fridge run in a few simple ways:
  1. Donate online – Even a small contribution will make a big difference, especially with CDA’s match-funding. 👉 https://localgiving.org/fundraising/chriswardCDA
  2. Share the message – Post about Chris’s run and Harmless on social media to help spread awareness.
  3. Cheer on the day – If you’re in Nottingham on 28 September, join the crowds and cheer Chris on as he takes on the half marathon.
Cheering on CDA’s Managing Director

Running 13.1 miles is a challenge in itself, but doing it in a fridge costume takes dedication to another level. It will be a day to remember not just for Chris and CDA, but for everyone who supports Harmless and The Tomorrow Project through this event.

Let’s get behind CDA Managing Director Chris Ward and show our support as he takes on this unforgettable challenge. Together, with your donations doubled by CDA, we can help provide hope, compassion, and support for those who need it most.

👉 Donate today: https://localgiving.org/fundraising/chriswardCDA
by Luke Shepperson

What Your Kitchen Says About You: Discover Your Kitchen Personality




Your kitchen isn’t just where you prepare meals. It’s the heart of your home and a reflection of your personality. The way you style and design your kitchen can reveal a lot about your habits, lifestyle, and even your values.

Whether you’re looking for kitchen makeover inspiration or simply wondering “What does my kitchen say about me?”, this guide will help you discover your kitchen personality.

View the full guide here

Artsy and creative kitchen personality

If your kitchen includes:
  • Bright colours
  • Hand-painted tiles or artwork
  • Unusual layouts or décor choices
Then you’re likely a creative spirit. Your kitchen is a space of self-expression where cooking meets art. You probably enjoy painting, journaling, or crafting. Your home reflects your imaginative personality.
 

Luxurious and high-end kitchen

Signs of a luxury kitchen include:
    • Marble or quartz countertops
  • High-end appliances
  • Elegant lighting fixtures
This type of kitchen reflects a passion for cooking, entertaining, and quality living. You love hosting, perfecting recipes, and curating a premium space that feels like a five-star experience.
 

Modern and minimalist kitchen style

If your kitchen is:
  • Clutter-free
  • Monochrome or neutral-toned
  • Designed with sleek lines and smart storage
You’re all about function, control, and quality. You prefer minimalist design and enjoy clean aesthetics that help keep your life and mind organised.
 

Farmhouse style kitchen personality

Features of a cosy farmhouse kitchen:
  • Rustic cabinets and vintage hardware
  • Open shelving
  • Warm, welcoming tones
You’re likely family-oriented, love comfort food, and enjoy meaningful conversations around the dinner table. Your kitchen tells the story of tradition, love, and togetherness.
 

Organic and nature-inspired kitchen

Organic kitchens often include:
  • Natural wood and stone
  • Potted herbs and indoor plants
  • Sustainable materials
This design reflects a love for the outdoors, sustainability, and mindful living. You might garden, recycle diligently, or follow a plant-based lifestyle. Your kitchen is a wellness sanctuary.
 

Industrial kitchen style

If your kitchen includes:
  • Exposed brick or concrete
  • Metal finishes
  • Raw wood or matte surfaces
Then you’re bold, unconventional, and creative. You probably work in a creative field or have a strong aesthetic sense. Your industrial kitchen reflects your love of urban design and artistic flair.
 

Kitchen makeover ideas (without renovation)

Looking to upgrade your kitchen without breaking the bank? Try these practical kitchen makeover tips:
  1. Start Small: Swap out handles, faucets, or light fixtures.
  2. Declutter: Introduce open shelving or hidden storage for a neater space.
  3. Add Personality: Display artwork, plants, or bold-coloured accessories.
 

Final thoughts: What is your kitchen saying about you?

Your kitchen is more than just a room. It’s a reflection of who you are. From luxurious and elegant to organic and creative, every element tells a story.
 
Next time you step into your kitchen, look around. What does your kitchen say about you?
Read the full article here
by Luke Shepperson

CDA Partners with Bind CIC to Launch North East’s First School Eco-Fridges

Eco Fridge inside a Newcastle primary school, filled with unserved school meals as part of Bind CIC and CDA’s sustainable food redistribution project. The initiative helps reduce school food waste and supports local families.


CDA is proud to support an innovative sustainability initiative, partnering with Bind CIC to launch the North East’s first school-based Eco-Fridges. This ground-breaking project, piloted in two Newcastle primary schools, aims to reduce food waste, promote environmental education, and support local families.

Fighting food waste in schools through innovation

Launched at Chillingham Road Primary School and Bridgewater Primary School, the Eco-Fridges offer a smart, sustainable solution to food waste. At the end of each school day, unserved yet perfectly good school meals are placed in the Eco-Fridge, where families can collect them free of charge. This community-focused initiative reduces food waste in schools while helping households access nutritious food, contributing to both environmental sustainability and social impact.

Part of the Eat Smart programme by Bind CIC

The Eco-Fridge project expands on the success of Bind CIC’s Eat Smart programme, which works with schools to raise awareness about the environmental impact of food waste. The programme encourages pupils to develop practical, student-led solutions for reducing waste at lunchtimes.   “The team at Bind have supported us for the last few years to reduce waste at lunchtimes and playtimes,” says Ben Wassall, Head Teacher at Chillingham Road Primary. “The Eco-Fridge is the next practical step, allowing families to benefit from meals that would otherwise be discarded. We’re grateful to Bind and the Local Authority for making this possible.”   “The Eco-Fridge has been a huge hit with our families,” adds Jennifer Stoker, Head of School at Bridgewater Primary. “It’s a simple and effective way of ensuring food waste is kept to a minimum. Our school community is proud to support the environment in such a tangible way.”

CDA’s commitment to sustainability

As part of our ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility and community partnerships, CDA has donated fridges to support this pilot scheme. The initiative is backed by Newcastle City Council, highlighting the value of cross-sector collaboration to deliver practical, scalable solutions for schools and local communities.

Empowering young changemakers

At the core of the Eat Smart programme is a belief in empowering children to lead change. “The Eat Smart project aims to show children that by working together, they can make a real difference in just six weeks,” says Georgie, Programme Manager at Bind CIC. “The Eco-Fridge takes their classroom ideas into the wider community, proving that small actions can lead to big results.”

A scalable model for sustainable schools

The early success of the Eco-Fridge pilot demonstrates its potential as a replicable model for other schools and community centres across the UK. By combining food redistribution, sustainability education, and community support, Bind CIC and CDA are setting a powerful example of what can be achieved through thoughtful innovation.

Learn more about CDA’s sustainability partnerships

At CDA, we are proud to support forward-thinking environmental initiatives that align with our values of sustainability, innovation, and community impact. To learn more, visit projectbind.com