For Haitham Shamsan, his business encompasses all he is passionate about - design, culture and responsibility. These have formed the essence of his new fashion brand, Double Crossed – a Cardiff-based company with big ambitions. Double Crossed has been supported through the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme (AGP). The AGP provides targeted support for ambitious growing firms. The programme is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government. Here Haitham Shamsan gives...
Sustainable sportswear firm in the running to breakthrough in a competitive sector.
There are numerous growing alternatives to mainstream fast-fashion for those looking for a wardrobe built on sustainability. Yet, sourcing environmentally-friendly training gear can be more difficult for those looking for athletic wear. Now, a Welsh brand has launched to supply runners with kit that looks and feels good and is good for the planet. Abergavenny-based Dryad has been supported through the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme (AGP). The AGP provides targeted support for ambitious growing...
Training company emerges from pandemic with bright future ahead.
Inspiring, educating and equipping the next generation of skilled workers is at the heart of 4D Academy. The Pontyclun-based training provider was formed when business partners Mark Davies and Christopher Saunders saw the need for a new kind of training offering for businesses. After coming through the pandemic stronger, 4D Academy is now looking ahead to an exciting future. 4D Academy has been supported through the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme (AGP). The AGP provides...
The technology start-up which aims to help us live healthier, happier lives.
Understanding the impact eating choices have on health, and the very individual ways those choices can affect different people, is a growing part of ensuring optimum health and well-being. Now, entrepreneurs David Haines and Julian Shapley have developed software using biological know-how to help users adapt food plans to their own lifestyles – allowing them to understand how and why they react in certain ways to the different things they eat. Cardiff-based Glucose Republic centres...
Innovative procurement firm offers businesses the chance to save thousands of pounds
There is an ever-present need to keep costs as low as possible in business. However, optimising spending on the procurement of goods can be a challenge for businesses of all sizes. Caerphilly entrepreneur Phillipe Mele set out to solve this problem for busy business owners, and in the process, his own business was born. My Procurement - a new, collaborative way for businesses to access better deals - uses a membership model to unlock the...
Exciting future ahead for property consultancy with an innovative tech solution at its core.
A life-changing health scare was the catalyst for change for Dean Ward. When he realised the stresses of his job had triggered a suspected stroke, he decided this was a turning point. It became the foundation of a new and exciting chapter for the experienced property professional. Using his experience and extensive knowledge of the sector, Dean founded DCW Group, a property consultancy firm which has the potential for rapid growth thanks to the innovative...
The online events firm whose founder has the vision to grow it into a world-leading brand
Entrepreneur Richard Lee has a big idea, and he’s intent on turning that spark into a successful online enterprise. Richard has established Venyu, an online booking platform that aims to be the leading brand in its sector – simplifying the process for people to search, book and plan events. Venyu has been supported through Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme (AGP). The AGP provides targeted support for ambitious growing firms. The programme is part-funded by the...
The sports entrepreneur transforming golf training for players at all levels of the sport around the world.
The game of golf can arguably be one of the most challenging sports of all, testing powers of concentration and skill to the limits. The will to succeed and improve is a constant driver for many golfers, from professionals at the top of their game to amateurs at their local clubs. Penarth-based Dr Golf founder Zach Gould relates to that desire to get better at the game and improve their health, so much so that...
Freight Systems Express Wales (FSEW) orders UK's first electric tractor units
Cardiff-based international freight forwarders, Freight Systems Express Wales (FSEW), has placed the UK's first order for battery-electric heavy tractor units, forming part of the firm's commitment to cut its carbon emissions by 50% within a year. FSEW is a logistics and international freight forwarding company based at Freightliner in Wentloog, Cardiff. Currently employing approximately 76 people, the company provides transport services to clients in the UK, Europe and around the world. FSEW, which counts Tesco...
How one family business is aiming to become an iconic Welsh motorcycling brand once again.
Beautifully crafted by skilled engineers, the Wardill 4 motorbike promises to offer motorcycle enthusiasts something genuinely different – and distinctly Welsh -when it enters the market. Wardill Motorcycles is a family business based in Pontypridd. Mark Wardill, the great-grandson of the company's founder, Henry Wardill, is busy reviving a firm with a rich heritage. And he has plenty of exciting plans for the future. Wardill Motorcycles is being supported by the Business Wales Accelerated Growth...