Like many recent graduates, Emma found herself entering the job market in the middle of the recession. There were very few employment opportunities where she lived in Bridgend so, rather than move away from all her family and friends, Emma decided to turn a negative situation into a positive one:

Emma chose to capitalise on the knowledge and experience of her parents who already owned a work-wear supply business.

Think outside the box when it comes to seeking financial support. There are numerous grants out there which mean you don’t have to rely solely on the banks.

Emma Staple - Uniform 2 Go

She set about re-shaping their business model to fit her own idea of supplying school uniforms, meeting the bespoke needs of educational establishments in the local area.

Due to the economic climate, however, the banks seemed less willing to lend to new businesses and required detailed business plans. She was relieved, therefore, when she was put in touch with Business Support Wales. Her business mentor helped formulate financial forecasts, as well as pointing her in the direction of the Graduate Start-Up bursary.

Uniform 2 Go Ltd now supplies the The Prince’s Trust with all its embroidered clothing requirements. In recognition of her achievement, Emma won the charity’s Enterprise award which was presented to her at a star-studded ceremony in Cardiff.

Uniform 2 Go Ltd also supplies 4 schools in Germany and export uniforms to them.

"People around me were saying I was crazy to be starting a business during the recession, but I believed if I could get my company off the ground while times were tough, I’d be really flying when the climate improved."