Starting a business from scratch is a challenging endeavour that requires determination, creativity, and unwavering dedication. In the UK, there are countless success stories of small businesses that started with just an idea and transformed into thriving enterprises. Here’s how 5 inspirational UK businesses that began small did it:
Innocent: From kitchen table to supermarket shelves
How it started:
Innocent Drinks, known for its delicious and healthy smoothies, had very humble beginnings. Founded in 1999 by three friends - Richard Reed, Adam Balon, and Jon Wright - the company started by selling their homemade smoothies at a music festival. Their dedication to using only fresh, natural ingredients and catchy branding quickly won over customers.
How they did it:
Sustainable Practices: Innocent Drinks stood out by prioritising sustainable practices from the start. They used recyclable packaging and committed to donating a portion of their profits to charity. This eco-conscious approach resonated with environmentally aware consumers and helped build brand loyalty, enabling them to get listed by major supermarkets.
BrewDog: Crowdfunding craft beer mavericks
How it started:
BrewDog, a craft beer company, was founded in 2007 by James Watt and Martin Dickie. Their passion for brewing unique and bold beers led them to create innovative flavours that stood out in the crowded mainstream beer market.
How they did it:
Crowdfunding and Community: BrewDog's growth was fuelled by an unconventional approach. They opened up ownership to their customers through crowdfunding, allowing them to invest in the company. This not only provided the necessary capital but also created a strong community of dedicated supporters to buy their products and visit their bars.
ASOS: Fast, affordable fashion
How it started:
ASOS, a global online fashion and beauty retailer, was founded in 2000 by Nick Robertson. It started as an internet-only venture, capitalising on the early e-commerce boom and offering a wide range of clothing and accessories.
How they did it:
Global Expansion: ASOS expanded rapidly by tapping into international markets. They recognised the global demand for fast, convenient fashion and adjusted their strategies to cater to customers worldwide. This approach allowed them to become a leading global fashion destination online.
Gymshark: A fitness wear phenomenon
How it started:
Gymshark, founded by Ben Francis in 2012, started as a fitness blog and an Instagram account. Ben's passion for fitness and entrepreneurship merged to create a fitness clothing brand that resonated with gym enthusiasts.
How they did it:
Gymshark leveraged social media to create a tight-knit fitness community. They engaged with customers, sought feedback, and collaborated with fitness influencers. This two-way interaction fostered a sense of belonging and loyalty among customers.
Deliveroo: revolutionising food delivery
How it started:
Deliveroo, founded by Will Shu and Greg Orlowski in 2013, transformed the food delivery industry in the UK. Their app-based platform connected customers with local restaurants, offering a convenient dining experience.
How they did it:
Deliveroo initially built a strong brand and then continually adapted to changing consumer preferences. They expanded their offerings to include not only restaurant meals but also groceries and convenience items. This flexibility allowed them to remain relevant and grow their customer base.
In short…
These five UK businesses serve as a testament to the power of vision, innovation, and determination. Starting small didn't hinder their success; it fuelled it. They remind us that with hard work, creativity, and a commitment to excellence, any idea can grow into a thriving business.
