Although the period between 2000 and 2023 has only seen less than a ten per cent increase in the proportion of cremations, the opening of crematoria has continued unabated. The private sector has almost entirely replaced local authorities as the key provider of nearly 100 new crematoria. During this time a range of issues has impacted upon cremation. These include certification, increased concerns about the environmental impact of funerals, the personalisation of ceremonies, funeral costs, competition between crematoria and the introduction of Resomation. The Covid-19 pandemic was a particularly challenging time. Whilst emergency legislation temporarily changed death registration and certification protocols, the Government also directed that all funeral ceremonies be limited in attendance, an instruction that gave prominence to direct cremation. Only time will tell the impact the latter will have on funerals and, more importantly, the bereaved.