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Behind the brand: small business owners share their stories

By Jade - Small Business Marketing Team | Posted August 26, 2025

“Definitely really inspired by small business customers” the words of one of EDF’s Small Business Energy Specialists. And I think we can all relate. 

In our most recent episode on the Small Business Retail sessions podcast, Jon Perks talks about key challenges small business owners have faced from closures during COVID to rising costs, it’s been a rollercoaster ride for business owners. 

And yet – they’ve risen to the challenges, looking for innovate ways to adapt, enhance customers experience and build loyal customer bases. 

Let’s hear from some of them.

Beauty by Ellie - growing her empire like a boss 

Meet Ellie: lash expert, business founder and busy mum behind the award-winning Beauty By Ellie salon in Solihull. In this short film, Ellie shares her small business journey – from designing her dream salon, to growing her team and taking on a second location.

Ellie has learnt from her own highs and lows and wants to help others navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.

 

Coco & Bloom – a master class in resilience 

Hear Founder Rebecca’s small business story from opening their doors at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, expanding the business into new areas and establishing a core team – or ‘extended family’ – of like-minded women.

 

BOTL – sustainability and being a certified B corp organisation  

Heather from BOTL turned a simple idea into a responsible, certified B Corp success. It started as a mother’s mission: to find a safe, reusable bottle for her son and now is a leader in sustainable bottles.

 

Rodeo doughnuts – a vison to change doughnuts in the UK

Hear from Tom who grew Rodeo from one shop to nine stores in its first year and expanded their factory operations to support them making thousands of doughnuts a day.

 

Want to hear more inspirational stories?  

The Small Business Retail Sessions podcasts features 10 episodes of small business owners sharing their stories. Expect real talk and real world insights to help your business grown.