Ikigai

Success Story 13 September 2024

Region/Nation West Midlands
Sector Wholesale and Retail Trade
Programme Start Up Loans
Partner

Laura Suominen is the founder of Ikigai, an eco-conscious and Japanese-inspired homeware store.

Ikigai, located in Leamington Spa, specialises in sourcing Japanese imported homeware items, yukata and otaku products such as official Studio Ghibli Merchandise.

Laura Suominen, the founder of Ikigai, in front of her shop

Laura took out a £12,000 loan via Start Up Loans’ Business Support Partner, BizBritain, in early 2024. The finance helped her to purchase a company car, develop a new website and further increase the inventory of items that are imported from Japan.

The funding from the Start Up Loans has been a huge help in growing our business and supporting our ambition to bring Japanese culture and homeware to Leamington Spa. I run the business alongside my partner, James, and we’re proud to have been able to grow the business to a level which supports us both financially so we can work together on our shared passion.

This wouldn’t have been possible without the Start Up Loan’s funding, so I am honoured to be chosen as the next West Midlands ambassador.

I hope we can continue to showcase the great work that can be achieved from a business idea and the support available to make it a reality.

- Laura Suominen Founder, Ikigai