Today, we're hitting the digital streets with another exciting edition of The Founder Series. This time, we’re exploring the inspiring stories of five UK-based entrepreneurs who are finding creative ways to meet consumer demand for sustainability, innovation, and community connection. From sustainable fashion and personalized photography to festive window designs and artisan baking, these founders prove that staying true to one’s values can lead to meaningful success. As Black Friday and Christmas approach, their stories remind us of the creativity driving today’s seasonal commerce.
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, Claire King's commitment to making crafting accessible to everyone is what sets her apart. 'I'm passionate about making these crafts accessible to everyone,' she says. With a lifelong passion for fabric and its transformative power, Claire has created a business that empowers individuals of all skill levels to create beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Growing up in Newcastle Upon Tyne, Claire developed a unique perspective on luxury markets. Her love for fabric and its transformative power has been a lifelong passion. She learned to crochet in 2014 and was instantly addicted. As time has moved on, she has returned to her childhood love of knitting, but she's always mindful that these crafts can seem intimidating to those outside of this very welcoming community.
King & Eye is a one-stop shop for learning to knit and crochet, with everything you need to get started. Claire's easy-to-follow patterns and tutorials, many of which have been featured in the media, are designed for beginners and seasoned stitchers alike. 'Learning how to knit and crochet your own wardrobe gives you the freedom to show off your style in exactly the way you want, reduce your environmental impact, and experience the therapeutic benefits of crafting,' she says.
One of the biggest challenges Claire has faced as a solopreneur is managing her time effectively. 'Juggling various roles, from designer to marketer to customer service, can be overwhelming, especially when balancing work with personal life,' she says. However, by taking small steps, celebrating small wins, and staying patient, she has been able to build a sustainable and fulfilling business.
Claire's work has been featured in various media outlets, including magazines and well-known websites. 'I have been extremely lucky that my chunky knits have been featured in various media outlets, including Zoella and Country Homes magazine,' she says. More recently, she has been asked to design for some of the national magazines, including Simply Knitting.
Migle Ceponyte's passion for photography has been ever-present, fostered by the unwavering support and encouragement of her family and friends. 'My family and closest friends have been a great source of inspiration for me to take the next steps and launch this business,' she says. With a focus on capturing floral nature images and translating them into distinctive physical designs, Migle has created a business that facilitates meaningful connections between individuals.
Migle was raised in Lithuania and pursued studies in the hotel industry before relocating to the United Kingdom. Throughout her life, a deep-rooted passion for photography has been ever-present. Initially a mere pastime, her interest in photography evolved over the years, leading her to delve wholeheartedly into the craft.
MigCPhotography specializes in capturing floral nature images and translating them into distinctive physical designs. Migle's objective is to facilitate meaningful connections between individuals by providing personalized greeting cards delivered by mail, as well as aiding in organizing their daily schedules through a range of calendar sizes and designs. 'My proficiency in conceptualizing and integrating photographs with diverse embellishments renders my designs distinctly individual and personalized,' she says.
Balancing the demands of her family and professional responsibilities remains a significant challenge for Migle. 'I am actively striving to find a harmonious equilibrium between the two,' she says. However, by prioritizing her goals and staying focused, she has been able to build a successful business.
One of Migle's most significant accomplishments since the inception of her business has been the prolific creation of designs. 'I remain committed to this pursuit without cessation,' she says. Her vision and ideas have undergone significant evolution, resulting in a more compelling and attractive output.
Keri Ackling and her husband Tom have built a business that is truly a family affair. 'We're a husband and wife team,' Keri says. With a passion for creating scenes in windows using regular snow spray, they have developed a unique and innovative product that is perfect for special occasions.
Keri and Tom are based in Berkshire, UK. They have been together for 26 years and have two children, Rae and Isaac. Keri's love for crafting and creativity has been a lifelong passion, and she has always been looking for ways to share that with others.
Snow Windows creates scenes in windows using regular snow spray. They also sell reusable stencils and window clings, the clings are printed using recyclable ink. 'We teach people how to create scenes with online courses,' Keri says. Their business is still run by Keri and Tom, and they take pride in providing a personal touch to every customer.
One of the biggest challenges Keri has faced is juggling being a mum and running a successful business. 'I have realised I can't do it all, so we appointed an accountant, social media management company, PR company and I found trusted reliable firms who help me manage the day to day with expertise in the areas needed,' she says.
Keri's proudest achievement is the success of their business and the impact it has had on their children. 'My daughter once said to me at 6 years old --Mum, you and Dad run a business spraying snow on windows, I want to be a professional soccer player and a hairdresser-- I said she was setting her sights high if she wanted to be a professional soccer player, she responded 'Mum, you and Dad run a business spraying snow on windows, I can be anything I want to be',' she says.
Alec White's passion for peonies has been a lifelong journey. 'These stunning blooms have captured my attention ever since I graduated as a horticulturalist,' he says. With a family background in horticulture, Alec has always been drawn to the beauty and elegance of peonies.
Alec's grandfather was a nurseryman, and his mother is an accomplished florist. Alec's passion for peonies drove him to learn everything he could about them and their fascinating history. He worked in horticulture for many years before deciding to pursue his true calling and start his own business.
Primrose Hall Peonies is a gold medal winning peony grower and nursery based in rural Bedfordshire. They grow one of the largest collections of peonies in the UK. 'We have adopted a regenerative farming method to keep our peony growing as low impact as possible and protect the naturally occurring wildlife and surrounding soil on the farm,' Alec says.
One of the biggest challenges Alec has faced is the intense high demand selling season for peonies. 'This has meant every member of our team from admin and support staff to marketing and PR and the nurserymen have had to learn all aspects of the business so they are able to jump in and help when needed,' he says.
Alec's proudest moment was meeting the late Queen Elizabeth II at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2022. 'I got to show her my peonies,' he says. He has also won a gold medal at RHS Chelsea in 2019 and launched his first book, A Love Affair with Peonies.
Mark Sinjakli and his wife Mel have built a business that connects customers with independent bakers across the UK. 'We operate a UK wide network of independent bakers,' Mark says. With a passion for baking and a background in business, Mark and Mel have created a unique and innovative business model.
Mark spent his 20s and 30s as a chartered accountant in corporate restructuring roles. He and his wife Mel, a baker, decided to acquire My Baker and combine their skills to create a business that would allow them to work together.
My Baker provides stunning and delicious cakes to customers, and in fulfilling those orders, they provide much-needed orders to independent bakers. 'We curate wall, desk, and magnetic calendars each year showcasing our photography and other innovative creations,' Mark says.
One of the biggest challenges Mark has faced is raising funds in the current climate. 'But that's where my restructuring and turnaround experience has come in useful, bootstrapping the company and making every penny count to grow organically,' he says.
Mark's proudest achievement is the success of their business and the impact it has had on the independent bakers they work with. 'Our most active bakers can make £2,000 - £2,500 a month in orders, and that alongside their own orders provides a livelihood for them,' he says.
These five founders demonstrate how small businesses can thrive by staying true to their values and adapting to what customers care about most. From Claire King’s sustainable fashion platform, King & Eye, to Alec White’s regenerative farming at Primrose Hall Peonies, they’ve built businesses that reflect their passions and connect meaningfully with their communities. Migle Ceponyte’s MigCPhotography creates personal connections through custom designs, while Keri Ackling’s Snow Windows Ltd spreads festive cheer across UK homes. Mark Sinjakli’s My Baker supports independent bakers, showing how business success can also foster community growth. Each founder has faced challenges along the way, but their dedication and practical approaches have helped them move forward. As Mark Sinjakli puts it, “Before investing time, money, and effort, make sure you have a product you know people want or need.” These founders show that purpose and creativity can be at the heart of a successful business, even in today’s competitive e-commerce landscape.
