Business Support Case Study: FreshWipes
About the business
- Business name: FreshWipes Ltd
- Support programme: Rother and Wealden Rural Business Grants programme
- Participant name: Liz Barnes
FreshWipes, a UK-based, women-owned company, is dedicated to providing sustainable hygiene solutions for individuals and carers. Based in the heart of the rural community of Lower Dicker, FreshWipes specialises in eco-conscious, biodegradable hygiene products that empower individuals to maintain independence and dignity.
Why they signed up to the business support programme
We were initially hesitant about applying for grants, assuming the process would be too complicated. However, the incredible support from Fred and the East Sussex County Council team made all the difference. Their guidance and encouragement simplified the process, allowing us to focus on our business. The grant has truly been transformative, setting us up for a brighter and more sustainable future.
Liz Barnes
What support they received
FreshWipes received £35,000 funding through the Rother and Wealden Rural Business Grants Programme to help build their new offices and acquire an electric vehicle for deliveries. The new offices have provided the space and infrastructure needed to expand their operations, while the electric vehicle allows them to attend trade shows and make deliveries in a sustainable and eco-friendly way, aligning with their mission to reduce their carbon footprint.
How this has helped the business
The grant funding has been a pivotal moment for FreshWipes. It has allowed them to:
- Hire four new staff members, increasing their capacity to meet the growing demand for their products.
- Create a dedicated workspace in their new offices, enhancing efficiency and collaboration within their team.
- Invest in an electric vehicle, enabling them to deliver products sustainably to their customers while reducing environmental impact.
The immediate benefits of the grant have set FreshWipes on a path of accelerated growth. With a larger team and better infrastructure, they’ve been able to scale their operations and improve customer satisfaction significantly.
Wider benefits from supporting this business
The grant has brought significant advantages to the local community and economy:
- By expanding their workforce, they’ve created valuable job opportunities within the region.
- Their electric vehicle has minimised the environmental impact of their logistics, supporting local sustainability goals.
- Their improved infrastructure has enhanced their ability to serve a wider audience, providing essential hygiene solutions to those in need.
The support from the Rother and Wealden Rural Business Grants Programme has been a cornerstone of our recent success. It’s enabled us to grow our team, expand our reach, and make a meaningful impact in our community while staying true to our commitment to sustainability.
Liz Barnes
Contact
For more information on the business support programmes provided by East Sussex County Council, contact the Economic Development Team.
Economic.Development@eastsussex.gov.uk
The Rother and Wealden Rural Business Grants Programme is funded by UK Government as part of the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) through allocations received by Rother District Council and Wealden District Council. The programme is delivered by the Economic Development Team at East Sussex County Council.
