Success Story
Region/Nation | West Midlands |
---|---|
Sector | Wholesale and Retail Trade |
Programme | Start Up Loans |
Partner |
Laura Suominen is the founder of Ikigai, an eco-conscious and Japanese-inspired homeware store.
Ikigai, located in Leamington Spa, specialises in sourcing Japanese imported homeware items, yukata and otaku products such as official Studio Ghibli Merchandise.
Laura took out a £12,000 loan via Start Up Loans’ Business Support Partner, BizBritain, in early 2024. The finance helped her to purchase a company car, develop a new website and further increase the inventory of items that are imported from Japan.
The funding from the Start Up Loans has been a huge help in growing our business and supporting our ambition to bring Japanese culture and homeware to Leamington Spa. I run the business alongside my partner, James, and we’re proud to have been able to grow the business to a level which supports us both financially so we can work together on our shared passion.
This wouldn’t have been possible without the Start Up Loan’s funding, so I am honoured to be chosen as the next West Midlands ambassador.
I hope we can continue to showcase the great work that can be achieved from a business idea and the support available to make it a reality.
Laura Suominen Founder, Ikigai
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