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Altrincham-based EZ Hampers marks anniversary with major growth and job creation

Press release 26 February 2025

EZ Hampers, a sustainable gift company which sources environmentally friendly products solely from positive impact businesses, is celebrating its one-year anniversary with the announcement of further growth and jobs.

The business, which specialises in bespoke hampers and community events, was founded by Lisa Storey in 2024 following her desire to create a successful business after a career as a nurse. In just one year, EZ Hampers has already experienced impressive growth and is set for further expansion.

After receiving a £10,000 Start Up Loan with the support of the programme’s Business Support Partner GC Business Finance (GCBF) in 2024, Lisa relocated to a new premises in Altrincham, with EZ Hampers experiencing a 50% increase in turnover since the move. The relocation has also allowed the business to grow, ensuring it can continue to offer top-quality, sustainable hampers to customers, whilst remaining front and centre in the local community.

In addition to this impressive growth, Lisa is committed to giving back to others by creating jobs in the local community. She plans to take on at least six employees in the near future, counter to the prevailing trend where job losses are becoming more common. Lisa is working closely with local colleges and employment services to provide valuable employment opportunities and hands-on experience to those who need it the most.

In recognition of her hard work and the impact EZ Hampers has had locally, Lisa was named the British Business Bank's Start Up Loans Ambassador for the North West for 2024-25. As an Ambassador, Lisa is advocating for small businesses and shares her story to inspire other entrepreneurs to take the leap and pursue their dreams.

Lisa Storey, founder of EZ Hampers, said: 

I'm so proud of how far we have come in just one year. From increasing our turnover by 50%, to supporting local people with job opportunities, I hope my story can inspire others to take that first step in starting a business and show that with determination and the right support, anything is possible. I was also honoured to have been named the Start Up Loans Ambassador for the North West, and I am excited to work more closely with GC Business Finance and the British Business Bank over the next few months.

Alex Mearns, head of startup lending at GC Business Finance, said: 

Lisa’s dedication to both her business and the local community is truly inspiring. It’s a privilege to support entrepreneurs like Lisa who are committed to creating jobs, providing opportunities, and contributing to the local economy. It’s been great to be part of her journey, and we are excited to continue supporting her through her second loan and beyond.

Louise McCoy, Managing Director, Start Up Loans Products at the British Business Bank, commented:

Lisa’s inspiring journey demonstrates the incredible potential of entrepreneurs when given the right support. Through the Start Up Loans programme, businesses like EZ Hampers can thrive, create jobs, and contribute positively to their communities. We are honoured to have her as our Start Up Loans Ambassador for the North West and look forward to seeing her continued influence in the region.

Further Information

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Notes to editors

About GC Business Finance

GC Business Finance (‘GCBF’) is a responsible lender. It exists to give small businesses and entrepreneurs the confidence to be successful in their growth journeys.

By offering debt (loans) and equity finance to start-ups, early stage and growth businesses, it is committed to helping companies realise their potential.

The organisation is powered by a unique technology platform, but has a team of financial experts on the ground who are immersed within the local small business eco-systems. Our team helps entrepreneurs navigate the financial landscape, and supports finance for growth.

GC Business Finance offers loans and equity funding from £500 to £2m to businesses looking to start up, grow and thrive.

For more information, visit the GC Business Finance website.

About Start Up Loans

The Start Up Loans programme provides personal loans for business purposes of up to £25,000 at a 6% fixed interest rate per annum and offers free dedicated mentoring and support to each business. 
The funding for the Start Up Loans programme is provided by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT). 

The primary aim of the Start Up Loans programme is to help ensure that viable start-ups and early-stage businesses have access to the finance and support they need in order to thrive. A network of Business Support Partner organisations supports applicants in all regions and industries throughout the UK.
The Start Up Loans programme is operated by The Start-Up Loans Company, a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales, registration number 08117656, registered office at Steel City House, West Street, Sheffield, S1 2GQ.  

The Start-Up Loans Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of British Business Bank plc which is a development bank wholly owned by DBT.  

British Business Bank plc and its subsidiaries are not banking institutions and do not operate as such. They are not authorised or regulated by the Prudential Regulation Authority or the Financial Conduct Authority. 

Free guides on a range of subjects related to starting a business are available on the Start Up Loans website. You can find recent media press releases here.

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