Hard work pays off as Pole Junkie scoops award

AN Arbroath woman who used her passion for pole dancing to launch a successful business has claimed a major industry award.

Kirsten Fairlie, 27, and friend Heather Laughland, 25, created their pole-clothing business Pole Junkie after becoming frustrated at lengthy waits for workout gear to be delivered from abroad. Fed up with the high shipping costs, customs charges and delivery times involved in purchasing pole-wear from overseas, they decided to take matters into their own hands and purchase clothing before selling it on.

The friends, who met while at university, spent £20,000 getting their venture off the ground and are now seeing the rewards.

They have seen their idea grow into a vibrant firm with an annual turnover of £235,000. Pole Junkie beat six rival firms to claim the Business of the Year award at the Pole World Festival held in Bristol.

A delighted Kirsten said: “To see just how much Pole Junkie has grown over the last three years is overwhelming.

“Glasgow is a hotspot for pole fitness with about 13 studios running classes, so we were sure people would like the concept of popular polewear brands being more accessible and affordable to them.

“We had no idea, however, that Pole Junkie would be so successful outside Scotland, to the point where we were able to quit our day jobs to focus fully on its success. We’re really happy to get the recognition. We’ve worked very hard building up the business.”

In the future, Kirsten and Heather plan to create their own clothing line.

One of the beggars passed out near a shop in Perth Road.