Success Story
| Region/Nation | Scotland |
|---|---|
| Programme | Start Up Loans |
Julie Di Toro and her partner, Sam Barker, took out a Start Up Loan in two parts in August and September 2020 to launch Mistral, an independent wine shop.
After the pandemic left them both unemployed, the pair decided to make the most of the opportunity and use their experience in the hospitality industry to launch the business they’d always dreamed of.
With experience working in the industry in London, New Zealand and Australia, they were confident when they moved to Sam’s hometown, Edinburgh, that Leith would be the perfect location to open shop.
Originally intending to open Mistral up as a wine bar, the pair had to think on their feet due to lockdown restrictions, and instead decided to branch out into the retail space where the business flourished. Having an open mindset was key to pivoting the business, and meant Julie and Sam were able to open a successful business despite the pandemic.
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A group of four friends have joined forces to launch BKW CrossFit, a new community-based gym in East Bristol, with the help of a Start Up Loan from the British Business Bank.
Read a success story about Krapow Thai Restaurant
Phil enjoyed a 17-year career in the British Army. He met his Thai partner Chanisara seven years ago and that sparked their dream to open a restaurant together. Chanisara started serving her cuisine with a Thai food stall in the town’s central market and discovered that demand was high for her freshly made products. The Start Up Loan of £24,000 they secured via X-Forces Enterprise (XFE) was key to making their dream a reality.
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