Five UK founders turning passion into results—creating businesses that set trends through usefulness, consistency, and a clear sense of direction.

This week’s spotlight follows five entrepreneurs whose journeys highlight the value of adaptability and perseverance. From Hugo Spiegl’s shift from commercial print to handcrafted notebooks, to Emily Lamb’s rise in the luxury cake-stand world, each proves that progress doesn’t require sacrificing values. They have moved through Brexit, a pandemic, and supply-chain chaos—yet continue to create solutions that speak to today’s buyers.

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Spiegl Press Ltd – The Stamford Notebook Company
Hugo Spiegl

In a space where tradition meets innovation, Hugo Spiegl led the transformation of his family print business into The Stamford Notebook Company. “Necessity is the mother of all invention,” he says, recalling the moment he saw the need for change. That shift sparked a focus on British, handcrafted, high-quality stationery.

Hugo's Background
Raised in Stamford, Lincolnshire, Hugo developed a love for learning and a strong work ethic. Before joining the family print firm in the 1990s, he worked in the motor industry—experience that shaped his practical mindset.

More About The Stamford Notebook Company
The company creates hand-bound notebooks, journals, diaries, and leather accessories, all made in Britain using traditional techniques and top-grade materials. “We’re proud to be transparent and British-made, using the very best resources,” Hugo says.

Key Challenges
Brexit and rising supply costs tested the company. “Brexit was complete madness,” Hugo admits, but quick thinking and flexibility helped them stay on track.

Successful Highlights
A memorable moment came when a customer saved up specifically to buy a notebook. “You don’t always realise the impact your work has on others,” Hugo says, reflecting on the emotional value of what they create.

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Pits & Bits
Jessica Efford

As sustainable living gains urgency, Jessica Efford offers eco-conscious personal care built for the outdoors. “I was inspired after seeing how astronauts clean themselves in space,” she says, leading to the launch of Waterless Limited and its line of no-rinse hygiene products.

Jessica's Background
Raised in the countryside, Jessica’s love of animals and nature developed early. After studying physiotherapy, she joined her family’s company and helped create greener alternatives to traditional body care—eventually leading to the Pits & Bits brand.

More About Pits & Bits
The range includes water-free shampoos and body washes designed to eliminate the need for baby wipes. “The products are ethical and actually remove dirt and sweat—without water,” Jessica explains.

Key Challenges
Finding the right facilities and managing logistics during growth was difficult. “We had to relocate several times, always trying to avoid slowing down order fulfilment,” she says.

Successful Highlights
One major success was inventing the first biodegradable shampoo cap. “It helps remove single-use plastic completely,” Jessica says, showing the brand’s deep commitment to the environment.

Prop Options
Emily Lamb

Cake stands take on new elegance through Emily Lamb’s business, Prop Options. “It all began after our daughter Mila’s first birthday and a cake smash,” Emily recalls.

Emily's Background
Born in Wareham, Emily studied Business Management and later co-founded Prop Options with her partner Brad. Together, they brought their creativity and drive into a product-based company from home.

More About Prop Options
The brand produces premium cake stands, bakeware, and event props. “We aim to lead the industry with modern designs that shape current baking trends,” Emily says.

Key Challenges
The pandemic hit early in the business’s life and created major roadblocks. “It was a tough time to manage, especially for such a new company,” Emily shares.

Successful Highlights
One of her proudest accomplishments was turning a home-based start-up into a respected global brand. “Growing fast while improving quality and service has been a major achievement,” Emily says.

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Retrospective Scooters
Niall Mc Cart

Classic scooter culture stays alive and moves forward at Niall Mc Cart’s shop, Retrospective Scooters. “Doing what I enjoy and know best makes the work worthwhile,” Niall says.

Niall's Background
Born in Ireland, Niall moved to London in the late 1980s. After years working as a dispatch rider, he opened his own scooter shop in 2000, following his passion for restoration.

More About Retrospective Scooters
The workshop restores vintage Vespas and Lambrettas while also building electric-powered versions. “We’re known for high-quality finishes and for converting classic models to electric power,” Niall explains.

Key Challenges
Raising funds and developing electric systems took focus and energy. “We had to dig deep and sell hard to stay afloat,” he remembers.

Successful Highlights
Niall is most proud of inventing the first—and still most reliable—electric conversion kit for classic scooters. “Staying open for 25 years and creating a global-first product stands out,” he says.

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Stronger Gum
Tomas Palomaki

In wellness circles, Tomas Palomaki has introduced a new concept with Stronger Gum—a chewable product for jaw fitness and vitamin intake. “I wanted to start a business because I couldn’t see myself working for someone else,” Tomas says.

Tomas' Background
From Finland originally, Tomas had a strong interest in health and business. After moving to Cornwall to study business, he explored different ventures before launching Stronger Gum in 2021.

More About Stronger Gum
Stronger Gum is a firm, resistant chewing gum that strengthens jaw muscles and provides vitamins D3 and K2. “We’re leading the thinking behind this product type,” Tomas says, noting its appeal among fitness fans and health-conscious buyers.

Key Challenges
Scaling while maintaining quality was tough, especially when sourcing ingredients and managing shipping. “Finding reliable logistics partners has been one of the hardest parts,” Tomas says.

Successful Highlights
Tomas points to a strong online community as a major win. “We’ve built a solid network of influencers and professionals who believe in the product,” he says. Other successes include selling out at a major fitness expo and teaming with a UK university to research jaw strength and posture.

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Final Remarks
What connects these founders is their consistent effort to create real solutions. From the handmade notebooks of The Stamford Notebook Company to the biodegradable shampoo cap from Pits & Bits, these ventures meet practical needs with thoughtfulness. Whether handling pandemic disruptions, funding issues, or supply-chain changes, each founder stayed true to their mission. As Hugo Spiegl says, “Necessity is the mother of all invention”—and these entrepreneurs show that strong ideas, paired with persistence and purpose, can lead to lasting success.

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