Gloom doesn't deter this pair of go-getters

9:00am Thursday 4th September 2008

REDUNDANCY and the impact of the credit crunch could not prevent two Evesham entrepreneurs from realising their life-long dream of owning their own business.

Steve Westwood and Emma Wood have used support from Business Link in the West Midlands to launch SEMS Wood and Wax, a retail outlet specialising in quality second-hand furniture, candles, holders and fragrances for the home.

It marks an exciting six months for the pair, who have invested time and money into turning their vision into reality.

“My redundancy from the printing industry has proved to be the inspiration we needed to start looking at what we wanted out of life,” said Mr Westwood.

“I’ve always been interested in furniture and Emma was keen to look at going into retail so we travelled around the area carrying out market research. At the same time, friends and family were going on about candles and how they’d love somewhere to go to give them ideas of displaying candleware on furniture.

“This got us thinking, and before long, we were talking to Business Link about writing a business plan, sourcing a retail outlet and making sure there was a demand for our products.”

Backed by external expertise, the entrepreneurs were introduced to Barclays Bank and, after reviewing the plans for the business, secured backing to help them start up.

“We are currently putting the finishing touches to a 1,000 sq ft store on Blackminster Business Park,” Mr Westwood added.

SEMS Wood and Wax, which expects to take on one part-time member of staff later in the year, is holding a promotional weekend this Saturday and Sunday to celebrate its official opening and will be offering a 10 per cent discount on virtually all its stock.

After pulling in the crowds during a trial run at the Evesham street market, the couple are convinced they are helping to fill a gap in the market.

Business Link in the West Midlands provides impartial, high-quality advice to people looking to start a business, including initial information and guidance, one-on-one support and access to training and development courses.

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