Wool firm pick Yorkshire for its first store
RETAIL CHAIN the Wool Couture Company is to open its first shop in South Yorkshire later this month.
Founded by working mother Claire Gelder as a ‘kitchen table business’, the business has grown to a £680,000 turnover business in just two years.
It will open its first flagship retial store in the former Old Robin Hood pub in Barnsley on September 20.
The firm has had backing from Dragon’s Den stars Touker Suleyman and Tej Lalvani and is stepping out from being an online business. Faced with the prospect of relocating to a warehouse to find the larger space it required it instead opted for something much more creative.
The old run-down pub will now be the location for its warehouse, workshop and first flagship retail store.
Ms Gelder said: “We’re overjoyed to be opening our first store and particularly happy to have transformed a derelict pub into a hub for the community.
“We’ve had a very busy and exciting start and can’t wait to have our first ‘high street’ presence here in Yorkshire. I’m very grateful for the support received from Tej and Touker, both of whom have been incredibly generous with their knowledge, experience and contacts.”
With a new rise of all things authentic, natural and personal, the creative brand, has successfully tapped into the current trend for ‘big knitting’, extreme yarn and large looms.
She said: “I’ve learnt firsthand that taking up a craft can be therapeutic and help to build new connections with others, it’s wonderfully rewarding; many find the combination of ‘wood and wool’ crafting, incredibly cathartic.
“I am proof that you don’t need to be a seasoned business person or high flyer to turn your passion into a successful company. Passion, a smart idea and good old fashioned determination are the ingredients for getting things off the ground.
“I am hoping my story will also inspire others out there to turn their visions into reality. It’s a great time of year to be opening too, as many prepare for the colder months spent indoors.”
The shop will also be used to offer workshops and potentially a venue for alternative birthday and hen parties.
We’re overjoyed to be opening our first store. Claire Gelder, founder, Wool Couture Company.