Craft + Common Thrives with £50,000 Start Up Loan Support

Lytham St Annes-based business, Craft + Common has flourished thanks to £50,000 in Start Up Loans provided by GC Business Finance (GCBF).

Founded in 2023, Craft + Common is a unique blend of a craft studio and bar, where visitors can enjoy pottery painting and ‘paint and sip’ events in a vibrant and social setting. Lauren and Hannah’s vision was to create a welcoming space in Lytham St Annes where individuals of all ages and artistic levels could come together, relax, and unleash their creativity.

The duo, friends for over 13 years since their school days, shared a common dream of entrepreneurship. Despite successful careers in various corporate roles, they always harboured aspirations of starting a business together. The challenges of the pandemic spurred them into action, prompting them to secure a Start Up Loan to turn their dream into reality. The funding enabled them to establish their studio and acquire the necessary equipment to launch their business.

Since opening, Craft + Common has quickly garnered strong support from the local community and beyond, growing organically through word of mouth and a strong social media presence. As the business flourished, the team expanded to include a manager and two part-time employees, bringing the total team to five.

Looking ahead, Lauren and Hannah are already planning to build on their success by opening a second location in the North West. With Craft + Common achieving profitability within just a few months, they are poised to fund the expansion themselves, showcasing the remarkable progress they've made since launching.

Lauren Rowland, co-founder of Craft + Common, said: “We never could have imagined how our little idea would have come to life, we are so proud of what we have achieved in our first year and we’re very grateful for the support we have received from our local community and beyond.

“The funding from GCBF supported us in getting started and we wouldn’t be where we are now without it, helping us to secure our first premises and initial equipment. We are currently working hard on expansion plans and we are very excited for the future of the business.”

Alex Mearns head of Start Up Lending at GC Business Finance, said: “Supporting Lauren and Hannah with funding and business support to open their first studio has enabled them to follow their dreams and start their own business. Craft + Common creates a unique experience for people and following the opening of their first studio, it’s great to see the support the team has received from the local community.

“Craft + Common is a brilliant example of how the funding we provide can allow entrepreneurs to take the initial leap into starting their own businesses, ultimately expanding and creating jobs in the local area. I look forward to seeing what is next for Lauren and Hannah as they prepare to open their second studio.”

Richard Bearman, managing director, Small Business Lending at the British Business Bank, said: “Craft + Common creates a unique experience for visitors, and Lauren and Hannah’s focus on growing a business in the North of England is great to see. In under a year, the business has opened its first studio, grown the team and is already looking to expand to another premises, and it all began with a Start Up Loan.

“We are able to help unlock the potential of entrepreneurs through Start Up Loans funding and support their dreams of starting a business. I look forward to seeing Lauren and Hannah’s continued success as Craft + Common expands throughout the North.”