The Story Behind the Multi-Guard

In the summer of 2022, I set out to solve a problem that had been frustrating me for years. Managing ten beehives came with constant challenges: protecting my bees from wasps, hornets, crop sprays, robber bees, and mice seemed like a never-ending battle. Each visit to my bees brought a new issue to face, which inevitably meant a trip to the shed, followed by a frustrating struggle to force an ill-fitting entrance block into an already agitated hive.

I tried using sponge as a stopgap, but the damp it caused only made things worse, and the bees clearly hated it too, coating it in propolis. My shed was a jumble of mismatched equipment, and I often lost pieces or forgot which hive they belonged to. When it came time to lock the bees in, I dreaded using Gaffer tape — not only because of the mess it left behind but because the sound of peeling the tape seemed to set the bees on edge.

Sleepless nights followed, worrying about pesticides and the possibility of the bees bringing harmful chemicals back to the hive. Worst of all, I hated the process of cracking open the brood box and accidentally squashing bees in the process. It felt wasteful, time-consuming, and stressful for the bees.

Designing a Better Way

I reached out to a structural engineer with one simple goal: create a solution that would keep the hive calm and undisturbed while providing effective protection from seasonal threats. I wanted something that would allow external screens to be fitted easily and instantly — a system that made beekeeping less stressful for both bees and beekeeper.

We began at the kitchen table, sketching out prototypes and refining ideas. Ten beekeepers tested our first designs, providing invaluable feedback that helped us improve the product. We replaced one screen entirely, refined shapes, and worked with CAD and plastics specialists to ensure the Multi-Guard was strong enough to handle weight and durable enough to last. 

Millimetre by millimetre, we arrived at the final design—one we’re incredibly proud of.

A Thoughtful Touch for Every Hive

Years of beekeeping taught me the importance of customisation, so we made the Multi-Guard available in a choice of colours. These different colours help bees locate their hive more easily, reducing drift and the spread of disease. We avoided red, as bees don’t see it well, focusing instead on colours that are practical and effective.

A Commitment to Quality and Sustainability

We also made a conscious decision to work exclusively with UK-based suppliers. From the cardboard packaging to the injection molds, every component of the Multi-Guard is locally sourced. Our packaging partner shares our commitment to sustainability, creating recyclable boxes that can be burned in your smoker without releasing harmful chemicals.

Our injection mold partner manufactures tools on-site, eliminating the need to outsource overseas. They guided us in selecting the best materials for durability and UV protection, ensuring the Multi-Guard will stand the test of time.

Our Vision

At Hive-Five, our vision is simple: to make a big impact on your beekeeping while minimising our impact on the planet. As beekeepers, we care deeply about the environment — and we know you do too.

Thank you for supporting our journey and helping us protect the bees that play such a vital role in our world.

Happy Beekeeping,
Natalie, Colin, and Michael