Shetland Retailer Sewing Success With Business Gateway Support

An independent Shetland knitting, yarn and haberdashery shop has seen its turnover more than double after accessing support from Business Gateway.

Local retailer, Loose Ends, is a mainstay on Lerwick’s Commercial Street, serving Shetland’s textile makers, creative industries and recreational crafters alike. The business, which prides itself on getting the best craft supplies and equipment quickly and at affordable prices, sells everything from fabric to knitting patterns, wool, wool accessories, quilting fabric, haberdashery and Shetland gifts crafted by independent local makers. The team are dedicated to supporting the crafting community, collaborating with small independent local farms to source single-origin wools, partnering with local makers, and offering extended opening hours to accommodate those with busy schedules.

Co-owner, Dee Henderson-Haefner, had worked in the store for 5 years under its previous owner. Looking to take over the business with her son Daniel Hanstrom, Dee reached out to Business Gateway in 2023 to support with business planning and financial forecasting that helped her to access essential funding.

Local Business Gateway adviser, Jeff Gaskell, supported Dee and Daniel throughout their business journey, providing expert one-to-one support across business planning and company regulations. Jeff also signposted the duo to funding opportunities and fully funded specialist marketing support from consultants at Tuminds, a dedicated digital marketing training provider.

Since taking over Loose Ends, Dee and Daniel have completely revamped the business, using Dee’s industry knowledge and contacts to craft a lasting connection with customers and establish a strong foundation for growth.

Loose Ends has seen turnover more than double since accessing Business Gateway support, enabling the business to take on its first employee and refurbish its storefront.

Dee Henderson-Haefner, co-owner, Loose Ends, said:

“Business Gateway’s support has been instrumental in helping us secure the funding to take on the business and establish a strong foundation for our revamp."

“Jeff has always been on hand to offer guidance and has been an invaluable resource for connecting us with the wider support network available that we wouldn’t have known about otherwise.”

Jeff Gaskell, Business Gateway adviser said:

“Dee and Daniel’s passion to revamp Loose Ends and bring it back to the heart of the community has been inspiring. It's great to see the strong community response to their hard work and I’m delighted we have been able to support their growth.”