A Cumbrian entrepreneur has been chosen as one of 18 small UK businesses to win a free exhibition stand at a leading European retail event.
Rachel Stewart, of Workington, will showcase her business Go Your Own Way at Spring Fair 2027 at the Birmingham NEC.
Go Your Own Way designs bespoke 3D wooden contour maps and personalised OS map artwork.
The business was chosen from hundreds of applicants after impressing judges in a nationwide competition.
The competition was run in partnership with retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis’ Small Business Sunday initiative. The prize gives the business the opportunity to display its products to thousands of retail buyers.
Ms Stewart said: “I’m delighted to be shortlisted for such an amazing event and opportunity.”
The 18 winning businesses will form the largest-ever #SBS Village at the event, which attracts more than 40,000 retail professionals every year.
Theo Paphitis, TV Dragon and small business champion, said: “The partnership between #SBS Small Business Sunday and the Spring & Autumn Fair team has now been running for eight years, and with this year’s competition we will have awarded over 100 free stands to small business owners.
“Year on year, the connections and relationships formed within the #SBS Village demonstrate just how valuable this opportunity is for growing businesses.
“It is a genuinely business-boosting experience, and I am already looking forward to meeting this year’s 18 finalists. Spring Fair continues to be a hub of opportunity, fresh thinking and new connections.”
Fay Tranter, event director at Spring Fair, said: “Every year we’re inspired by the incredible creativity, passion and entrepreneurial spirit within the #SBS community, but this year’s entries raised the bar once again. The quality of applications was outstanding, making the judging process incredibly difficult.
“Go Your Own Way is a fantastic example of the innovation and originality that independent businesses bring to the retail industry. We’re delighted to welcome them to Spring Fair 2027 and look forward to introducing their products to thousands of retail buyers from across the UK and internationally.
“We can’t wait to see where this opportunity takes them.”
Spring Fair 2027 will take place at the NEC Birmingham from February 7 to February 10 2027.
