Spotlight on... Lovelone

What is your best achievement as being a business owner?

LoveOne has been a part of the high street for 16 incredible years. It's not just a business; it's a journey, a commitment to our community, and a celebration of the spirit of independent retail.

What has been your best selling product this past season?

Let's talk about our star—Jellycat! This past season, Jellycat has been stealing the spotlight at LoveOne. It's always fascinating to see which products capture the hearts of our customers.

What has worked best in terms of speaking to your customers? 

Every business faces challenges, and at LoveOne, we've tackled issues like the poor perception of our town and the rising cost of living. How did we counteract this? Social media became our superpower. Positive messages, collaborations with fellow businesses, and offering a diverse range of products at various price points helped us shape a narrative that resonates with our customers.

What work do you do within the community?

LoveOne isn't just a store; it's a part of our community's heartbeat. As a co-director of the Saints Community Interest Company (CIC), I've been involved in organising street markets for an incredible 13 years, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of our high street. And recently, I've taken on a new role as a Labour Councillor for Ipswich, advocating for small businesses and town center initiatives.

What advice would you give future store owners looking to go into your field?

For those dreaming of starting their own store, here's some advice from my journey: Dive into thorough research within your sector, find a mentor or guide, and be ready to embrace omnichannel approaches.

And finally, please share any positive experiences you’ve had with Bira.

I appreciate their role in advocating for small businesses. Plus, the positive experience of securing a favourable insurance deal through Bira has been a big win for LoveOne.