As the year winds down and the festive rush begins, what does it take to stand out in today’s competitive market? In this week’s Founder Series, we highlight five UK entrepreneurs who are not only innovating within their industries but also creating businesses that speak to the values of today’s consumers. From art and design to rum and skincare, these founders are redefining their sectors with creativity, sustainability, and a commitment to building stronger connections. How are they navigating the challenges of 2024 while staying true to their unique visions?
As the year draws to a close, the business world continues to evolve. In this edition of The Founder Series, we explore the journeys of five UK entrepreneurs who are making their mark by challenging the norms of their respective industries. Stacie McCormick’s Fair Art Fair is transforming the art world by breaking down barriers and connecting artists with collectors in more personal, meaningful ways. Jeremy Mitchell’s Upbeat Spirits is redefining the spiced rum category, tapping into the heart of music and culture. From the eco-conscious efforts of Friendly Soap’s Geoff Kerouac to the design-driven luxury interiors of Anna Agapova’s O&A London, these founders are not just responding to changing consumer needs—they’re shaping the future of business by staying grounded in their values. Join us as we take a closer look at how they’re navigating the challenges of 2024 while remaining true to their unique visions.
In today’s e-commerce landscape, meeting consumer expectations is key to staying competitive. Shoppers increasingly value businesses that prioritize sustainability, offer creative solutions, and foster genuine connections. Aligning with these trends is not just a choice—it’s a necessity for success. This week, we highlight five UK-based entrepreneurs who are quietly making a difference in fields as varied as fashion, photography, and food delivery. From Claire King’s sustainable fashion platform, King & Eye, to Alec White’s efforts in regenerative farming at Primrose Hall Peonies, these founders are showing that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of values. Whether it’s reducing environmental impact, championing local craftsmanship, or building trust with their customers, these entrepreneurs are finding ways to thrive while staying true to their principles. Let’s explore their stories, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.
As the colder months approach, we’re reminded that, just like the seasons, the business landscape is constantly changing. In this week's Founder Series, we spotlight five UK entrepreneurs who are quietly shaping their industries with thoughtful, purpose-driven work. In this month's Founder Series, we spotlight five UK entrepreneurs who are quietly shaping their industries with thoughtful, purpose-driven work. From sustainable cold water therapy to high-quality artisanal yarns, these founders are demonstrating how passion, persistence, and a commitment to values can create meaningful businesses. Each of their journeys reflects a dedication to quality, community, and the belief that doing things the right way is always worth the effort.
What does it take to build a business that goes beyond convenience to truly inspire? For these five founders, the answer lies in creativity, purpose, and a strong foundation of passion and unique offerings. From fostering community to crafting distinctive products and experiences, their ventures reflect the growing demand for authenticity and meaningful connections in today’s market. From curating contemporary design platforms to preserving heritage skills like traditional boatbuilding, these founders are carving out unique niches in their respective fields. Their businesses prioritize creativity, quality, and meaningful connections, reflecting a deep commitment to purpose and authenticity. By combining their personal passions with innovative approaches, they’re meeting the needs of today’s discerning consumers while setting examples of what thoughtful entrepreneurship can achieve.In a world where consumer priorities are shifting toward sustainability, innovation, and meaningful connections, this week's Founder Series showcases five UK entrepreneurs who are perfectly aligned with these changing expectations. From tackling climate change with sustainable fashion to offering creative ways for people to reconnect in a post-pandemic world, these founders are meeting the demands of a market that values purpose-driven businesses. Each has found a way to balance but also responding to the evolving needs of today's consumers.
In today’s ever-evolving marketplace, businesses that stand out are those that tap into both passion and purpose. This week, we focus on five UK-based entrepreneurs who are blending creativity with meaningful missions. From Cool Car Limited’s specialized mobile air conditioning services to Bare Kind’s eco-friendly fashion that supports wildlife conservation, these founders are meeting consumer needs while driving positive change. Their journeys showcase how passion can fuel not just personal success but broader impacts—from protecting endangered species to fostering global communities of craft enthusiasts. As we approach the season of giving, these entrepreneurs highlight how doing business with purpose can lead to both growth and genuine impact.
As we enter the final stretch of the year, these founders are quietly transforming their respective industries. Rather than chasing fleeting trends, they’re focusing on what matters: creating businesses that resonate with a generation of consumers who seek purpose behind their purchases. Scarlet Alexandra’s SAX DOODLE reimagines how we view cities through travel posters that capture the essence of a place, rather than its clichés. Dr. Sean Radford’s TrainAsONE is making running more accessible and effective by personalizing training with AI, showing how technology can be harnessed for real-world improvements. Their businesses are examples of how combining passion with practical innovation can create lasting impact.
In an era where consumers are seeking more than just products—they’re looking for meaningful connections—these five UK entrepreneurs stand out for their ability to merge passion with practical solutions. From Kim Lawless' The Wax Queen Ltd, which redefines beauty care through skillful training and innovative products, to Nathalie Gibbins' Pow Pots, which infuses vibrant artistry into everyday items, these founders are creating businesses that resonate deeply with their communities. Their ventures prove that entrepreneurship isn’t just about meeting market demands; it’s about addressing real needs, personal challenges, and crafting experiences that make a lasting impact. Let’s take a closer look at how their creativity, resilience, and commitment to authenticity have paved the way for success.
The shift in consumer preferences towards quality, sustainability, and authenticity has made an undeniable mark on today’s business landscape. This week’s Founder Series introduces five entrepreneurs who are harnessing these trends to build distinctive brands. Whether it’s giving overlooked authors a platform, crafting award-winning beers, or innovating in the whisky industry, these founders are making waves in their respective fields. What unites them is a clear commitment to offering products and services that meet the evolving expectations of today’s consumer, all while staying true to their values and vision.
As the holiday season gains momentum, consumers are searching for products that combine quality with authenticity. This week’s Founder Series highlights five remarkable UK entrepreneurs whose businesses bring joy, sustainability, and innovation to the forefront. From Catherine Kay’s whimsical designs at Katnipp Studios Limited to Dan Shearman’s ethical food innovations at The WilderKitchen, these founders embody the values driving today’s market. Each of their ventures reflects a commitment to their craft and a deep understanding of what modern consumers value most: purpose-driven products, meaningful stories, and thoughtful connections. Through their creativity and resilience, these entrepreneurs are carving out distinctive spaces in industries as diverse as photography, fine jewelry, and sustainable food. Let’s delve into their journeys, challenges, and the impactful ways they’re shaping their respective markets.
In an era where consumers are increasingly prioritizing sustainability and deeper connections, these five UK-based entrepreneurs have found ways to balance profit with purpose. Whether it’s offering creative products that enhance personal spaces or providing innovative solutions for modern transportation, each founder’s journey reflects a commitment to both their industries and the communities they serve. With the holiday season in full swing, these businesses demonstrate that it’s possible to grow while staying true to the values that matter most. In this edition of The Founder Series, we spotlight their efforts to create meaningful impact—one business at a time.
This week’s Founder Series highlights the power of combining personal passion with a purposeful mission. Each of these five UK entrepreneurs has built a business that not only meets modern consumer demands but also reflects their values and creative approaches. From Alastair Gibson’s intricate carbon-fiber sculptures that celebrate the beauty of engineering and nature, to Deborah Cadby’s sustainable jewelry crafted from antique stones, these founders are finding unique ways to connect with their audiences. Whether it's supporting mental well-being through art, enhancing musical journeys with innovative tools, or tackling environmental concerns with sustainable printing, they exemplify the creativity and resilience needed to thrive in today’s competitive market. As we explore their journeys, challenges, and accomplishments, we see how they’ve transformed personal passion into tangible solutions that leave a lasting impression on their industries and communities.
As December kicks off, the season of thoughtful giving and mindful consumption is upon us. In this week’s Founder Series, we’re spotlighting five UK entrepreneurs whose businesses align perfectly with today’s demand for creativity, sustainability, and community connection. Jennifer Countess von Walderdorff champions sustainable fashion with Look at the Labels, a platform empowering consumers to shop responsibly. Caroline Boff’s vibrant artwork uplifts viewers, showing the power of creativity to inspire. Marek Lukacovic’s brands, Strike and AlviPro, focus on ethical growth in sportswear and wellness. Scott Benefield preserves traditional glassblowing craftsmanship through his Northern Ireland studio, and Jefferson Boss of StarmoreBoss redefines drinks retail with innovation and education. Amid ongoing shifts in consumer values, these founders stand out for their ability to adapt, connect, and make a positive impact. Their stories highlight how passion and purpose can shape industries, spark meaningful connections, and thrive in an ever-evolving market.
In this week’s Founder Series, we turn the spotlight on five UK entrepreneurs who are solving real problems with their businesses. Whether it’s offering tailored leather jackets or reinventing how furniture is personalized, these founders are creating products and services that reflect the changing needs of consumers. As the holiday season ramps up, they’re finding ways to balance growth with staying true to their missions. Here’s a closer look at how they’re navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and leaving their mark on the e-commerce landscape.
What inspires an entrepreneur to turn personal frustrations, dreams, or passions into thriving businesses? This week’s Founder Series introduces five UK entrepreneurs who have done just that, bringing fresh perspectives to their industries. From crafting biodegradable sunglasses to offering new approaches in children’s education, these founders demonstrate that combining purpose with innovation leads to meaningful outcomes. Rou Chater’s FacePlant is redefining eyewear with eco-friendly, replaceable lenses, while Jim Ashley’s Outlaw Rum challenges the status quo in premium spirits. Meanwhile, Robert McKain’s Pure Roasters Coffee pioneers a sustainable approach to roasting, Katie Godfrey creates opportunities in beauty and coaching, and Ruth Bradford’s Little Black & White Book Project sparks curiosity and conservation in children. Their stories highlight not just business acumen but also how purpose-driven innovation can address consumer demands while leaving a lasting impact.
In this week's Founder Series, we explore the stories of five entrepreneurs who are transforming their industries with thoughtful, values-driven approaches. Each founder brings a unique vision to their work, whether it’s crafting urban contemporary art, redefining natural perfumery, or championing inclusion through music. From Otto Schade’s striking murals that blend art with social commentary to Chantal Kerr-Sheppard’s efforts to make events sustainable through Event Cycle, these founders are setting powerful examples of innovation and purpose. Meanwhile, Kershen Teo and Sophie King are reimagining perfumery, offering ethical alternatives that resonate with modern consumers. Lastly, Susan Zur-Szpiro’s leadership of The AutistiX is breaking barriers in music by highlighting inclusion and the value of diverse talent. Each of these ventures not only addresses market demands but also creates lasting impact, offering lessons in resilience, creativity, and staying true to one’s mission.
In today’s ever-changing business landscape, success isn’t always about grand gestures or big investments—it’s about solving problems, staying true to values, and building meaningful connections. For these five founders, each day is about doing just that. Conor Rees started 99 Percent Lifestyle to share the stories of creative entrepreneurs who are making a difference, while Ernest Amoako’s Blanqo helps holidaymakers enjoy their skiing experience without the hefty price tag. Vladislav Barrow’s AI Art Shop brings technology and art together, offering a new platform for digital creators, while Lisa Gorenflo’s Mantrailing Global is teaching dogs and owners to work together in ways that foster a real sense of community. Cristina Leone Santos’s Puzzle Designs creates jewelry that empowers women to feel confident, without compromising on quality. These founders are quietly shaping their industries with thoughtful, practical approaches.
In an increasingly fast-paced world, wellness and lifestyle brands are finding ways to slow down and focus on what truly matters. These five founders have each developed businesses that prioritize quality, connection, and purpose over mass production and rapid growth. Whether it’s by supporting the physical goals of endurance athletes, creating artisanal products that celebrate craftsmanship, or offering art that resonates on a personal level, these entrepreneurs are reshaping the way we think about lifestyle and wellness. Here’s how they’re enriching lives, building communities, and making a meaningful impact through their innovative approaches.
In an industry where convenience and speed often overshadow sustainability, these five founders are showing that online retail can have a conscience. Each of them has built a brand that prioritizes responsible sourcing, environmental impact, and lasting quality over fast profits. Whether it’s transforming waste into fashion or creating energy-efficient lighting solutions, these entrepreneurs are using e-commerce as a platform to drive positive change. Here’s how they’re combining business with purpose, turning ethical craftsmanship into a competitive advantage, and inspiring a new wave of consumer responsibility.
In a space where large-scale corporations and rapid algorithms dictate the pace, e-commerce may seem like an unlikely field for deeply personal, purpose-driven brands. But these five women are proving that e-commerce can be more than just a storefront; it can be a meaningful connection between brands and consumers. They’re showing that digital platforms can support ethical businesses that are as diverse as their founders, from cultural products and eco-friendly goods to personal wellness services. Each founder’s story is a testament to resilience and creativity in a rapidly evolving market.
In a world where consumer priorities are shifting toward sustainability, innovation, and meaningful connections, this week’s Founder Series showcases five UK entrepreneurs who are perfectly aligned with these changing expectations. From tackling climate change with carbon-negative products to offering creative ways for people to reconnect in a post-pandemic world, these founders are meeting the demands of a market that values purpose-driven businesses. Each has found a way to balance profitability with values, staying resilient through the challenges of modern entrepreneurship. And this is why we’re zooming in on these founders this week—to explore how their visions are not only contributing to their industries but also responding to the evolving needs of today’s consumers.
The UK e-commerce sector offers both exciting opportunities and significant challenges, as seen through the experiences of this week’s featured founders. From Jordan Sheppard’s innovative affiliate program at Voltsco to Aidan Farrell’s success in the electric bike market with Go Off-Road Barnsley & Wakefield, each entrepreneur has found a unique way to thrive. Lauretta and Sharon Gavin have made wellness accessible through their brand, Gavin Sisters, while Abigail Ahern continues to redefine home décor with Abigail Ahern Interiors. Meanwhile, Guy Bolton’s Greasy Kulture proves that print media still has a place in niche markets like custom motorcycles. These founders share their stories of overcoming cash flow issues, building loyal customer bases, and creating innovative solutions in their respective industries.
Though called an industry generally, and by us on the UNREAL Rockstars editorial team, e-commerce isn’t exactly an industry—rather, it functions as a point of sale for many industries. This dynamic makes the e-commerce landscape broad and explorative, spanning everything from colorful diamonds and shiny objects to the blended worlds of music and café life. And exactly this is what we have in store for this feature, starting with the lucrative diamond industry.
If you are a founder or C-level executive at a Swedish agency, we’d love to hear from you. We’re always looking to connect with leaders who are willing to share their experiences, challenges, and insights. By reaching out, you’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with us as we explore your unique story and showcase what it's like to navigate the agency world in Sweden. Don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re excited to learn more about your journey.
If you are a founder or C-level executive at a Danish agency, we’d love to hear from you. We’re always looking to connect with leaders who are willing to share their experiences, challenges, and insights. By reaching out, you’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with us as we explore your unique story and showcase what it's like to navigate the agency world in Denmark. Don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re excited to learn more about your journey.
We will be taking a closer look at a handful inspiring journeys of five ecommerce founders from the Netherlands, navigating trials and triumphs to build businesses around hands-on solutions to practical problems. In the rapidly evolving Dutch ecommerce landscape, determined entrepreneurs are stepping up to create value, break new ground, and provide innovative solutions. This article features five founders from the Netherlands who have successfully addressed industry-specific challenges to carve out a niche in the country's competitive ecommerce scene. From optimizing supply chains for small online retailers to enhancing customer experiences with cutting-edge platforms, these forward-thinking Dutch entrepreneurs are leveraging their unique strengths and passion to redefine ecommerce in the Netherlands. Each founder's journey offers valuable insights into adopting innovative yet pragmatic business strategies, overcoming operational hurdles, and setting clear, achievable goals in the Dutch market.
We will take a closer look at handful inspiring journeys of five ecommerce founders from Germany, navigating trials and triumphs to build businesses around hands-on solutions to practical problems. In the fast-paced German ecommerce landscape, determined entrepreneurs are stepping up to create value, break new ground, and provide innovative solutions. This article features five founders from Germany who have successfully addressed industry-specific challenges to carve out a niche in the country's competitive ecommerce scene. From optimizing supply chains for small online retailers to enhancing customer experiences with innovative platforms, these forward-thinking German entrepreneurs are leveraging their unique strengths and passion to redefine ecommerce in Germany. Each founder's journey offers valuable insights into adopting innovative yet pragmatic business strategies, overcoming operational hurdles, and setting clear, achievable goals in the German market.
In a business where trust is as valuable as the diamonds themselves, Fair Art Fair is a social media platform that connects art lovers and artists on a global scale. 'Fair Art Fair addresses one of the art world’s most persistent problems: accessibility,' says Stacie McCormick, founder of Fair Art Fair. 'Artists often struggle to reach new audiences, while many art lovers feel priced out or intimidated by traditional gallery spaces.'
Growing up in the US and later moving to London, Stacie developed a unique perspective on the art world. As a practicing artist, she sought to foster connections within the art world, breaking down barriers and building a more inclusive space. Combining her background in the arts with a keen interest in technology, she developed Fair Art Fair to connect art lovers and artists on a global scale.
Fair Art Fair is a zero-commission platform that enables discovery, connection, and direct interaction between artists and art lovers. Beyond serving as a discovery platform, Fair Art Fair offers comprehensive tools for managing art collections, organizing studio inventories, and curating personal favorites. 'We also blend digital and physical realms through our 'phygital' model, creating opportunities for in-person exhibitions within a vibrant, connected art community,' says Stacie.
Deconstructing the traditional art world has been Fair Art Fair's greatest challenge. Building trust and educating both artists and collectors about new, more liberating ways to engage with art takes time and effort. 'We tackle this by focusing on personal connections—working with one artist, one collector at a time—and demonstrating how the platform can transform their experiences,' says Stacie.
Creating a fully functional, innovative app has been a monumental achievement for Fair Art Fair. 'I am incredibly proud of the way we’ve navigated these challenges to deliver a product that addresses so many needs in the art community,' says Stacie. 'Watching artists and collectors embrace the platform and use it to thrive has been incredibly rewarding.'
In a world of luxury design, O&A London stands out for its unique blend of classic English aesthetics and modern comfort. 'We excel at integrating vintage pieces with contemporary elements, creating interiors distinguished by high-quality materials, custom-built furniture, and meticulous craftsmanship,' says Anna Agapova, founder of O&A London.
Anna's journey in design began with an unconventional start—studying Geography at Moscow State University. While drawing maps, she discovered a passion for artistic expression that guided her to explore various creative paths. Immersion in the Japanese school of painting sharpened her attention to precision and detail and deepened her appreciation for the beauty of transformation and impermanence.
O&A London is a boutique design studio with over 25 years of expertise in creating bespoke luxury interiors for residential, developer, and hospitality projects worldwide. 'We bridge a critical gap in the luxury market by offering a holistic, art-driven approach to design that blends function, aesthetics, and exclusivity,' says Anna.
Establishing themselves in the highly competitive English market demanded immense effort from O&A London. Just as they were making significant progress, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the industry and tested their resilience. 'We thought this was our toughest challenge—until 2022 brought the complexities of the war in Ukraine,' says Anna.
Anna's proudest achievement has been supporting and growing her talented team through every challenge. 'Despite our small size, we’ve consistently adapted, seized new business opportunities, and maintained our dedication to innovation,' says Anna. 'One standout accomplishment is the creation of AGAPE Space, a dynamic gallery that transforms our hybrid office into a hub for artists, craftsmen, and interior and architecture enthusiasts.'
In the world of spirits, Upbeat Spirits Ltd is making a name for itself with its premium spiced rum, 8Track. 'We created 8Track to provide a distinctive and appealing alternative to the mass market competitors,' says Jeremy Mitchell, founder of Upbeat Spirits Ltd.
Jeremy grew up in Cornwall and developed a passion for the hospitality sector from a young age. After working in marketing and copywriting for various organizations, he joined St Austell Brewery as marketing director. In 2020, he left the brewery and joined forces with two entrepreneurs to establish and launch 8Track Spiced Rum.
Upbeat Spirits Ltd is a challenger brand in the burgeoning UK rum sector. 'We have a clear ethos that informs and drives the beat that we dance to: a premium spiced rum that celebrates and supports independent music, good times together and doing better for people and the planet,' says Jeremy.
Jeremy's biggest learning has been the importance of focusing on what's achievable and important. 'When 8Track launched in 2021, it received amazing feedback and we believed it would grow rapidly,' says Jeremy. 'However, we quickly learned and refocused on establishing and growing 8Track sales and distribution in its heartland in Cornwall and South West England.'
Jeremy's proudest moment was seeing the 8Track Spiced Rum bus draw crowds of revellers in its first summer at a range of music festivals. 'We imported a US school bus from Tennessee and converted it into a pop-up rum bar with a stage on the roof for bands and DJs,' says Jeremy.
In the world of soap-making, Friendly Soap is a brand that stands out for its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendliness. 'We wanted to create handmade, vegan, cruelty-free soap with natural ingredients, all packaged plastic-free, and at a price everyone could afford,' says Geoff Kerouac, founder of Friendly Soap.
Geoff grew up in the Calder Valley and developed a passion for sustainability and eco-friendliness. He started Friendly Soap with his business partner Rob Costello in 2008, with the goal of making sustainable soap accessible to as many people as possible.
Friendly Soap is a brand that is fully committed to being plastic-free. 'From our natural soap bars to our bamboo soap racks and body sponges made from natural cellulose, we ensure everything we make is sustainable, cruelty-free, and produced by workers in the UK paid a living wage,' says Geoff.
One of Friendly Soap's biggest challenges has been competing with larger skincare brands. 'However, we’re proud to have built a loyal customer base who truly values what we do, and that support continues to grow,' says Geoff.
Friendly Soap has been lucky enough to receive a few awards over the years, but Geoff's proudest achievement is celebrating the company's 15th anniversary. 'We’ve made it through some tough times—COVID-19, two floods, and an economic crisis—and we’re still here,' says Geoff.
In the world of tanning salon supplies, Bliss is a family business that has been serving the industry for 28 years. 'We supply the UK and Irish tanning salon owners with the largest range of tanning lotions,' says Mark Tillotson, founder of Bliss.
Mark grew up in Leeds and developed a passion for business from a young age. He started working in the family import/export business and later joined Bliss, where he worked his way up to become the managing director.
Bliss is a B2B focused family business that has been serving the tanning market for 28 years. 'We give our customers a true one-stop shop for all their salon requirements from lotions to accessories, parts and lamps,' says Mark.
The pandemic was one of the most challenging times Bliss has faced as a business. 'Our salon customers were forced to close their doors and we faced the prospect of sending our employees home without knowing when or if we would see them again,' says Mark.
Mark's proudest achievement is managing the launch of the Bliss website in 2020. 'I am also immensely proud that we have managed to keep a core team of staff most of whom have been with the business 10 years plus,' says Mark.
The stories of these five entrepreneurs are a testament to the power of staying focused on what truly matters—creativity, integrity, and building connections that last. Whether it’s Anna Agapova’s O&A London blending traditional craftsmanship with modern luxury or Geoff Kerouac’s Friendly Soap championing sustainability in the skincare industry, each of these founders is proving that success is built on more than just profits. Stacie McCormick’s Fair Art Fair is empowering both artists and collectors to thrive in a more transparent and accessible space, while Jeremy Mitchell’s Upbeat Spirits is connecting the world of rum with a vibrant, music-driven culture. Mark Tillotson’s Bliss continues to be a pillar of support for tanning salons, showing that even in niche markets, dedication to quality and service can foster long-term growth. As Jeremy wisely says, “It’s about taking your time and focusing on what’s important—growth is a marathon, not a sprint.” These entrepreneurs remind us that when businesses are built with purpose, the rewards go far beyond financial success—they create lasting change and build communities in the process.
