The studio is the base for Lizzie’s recycled clothing company, ReMade in Leeds, which is already attracting national attention having been shortlisted for The Observer newspaper’s Ethical Awards this year.
Lizzie, 26, had been left with an unfinished shell after construction company Connaught – which was due to complete the studio refurbishment through a community scheme – went into administration.
The Milun Centre – a community centre set up by Sharing the Success, the Leeds Local Enterprise Growth Initiative which has helped Lizzie develop her business – put her in touch with another Sharing the Success Partner Leeds Ahead. Leeds Ahead contacted the Lovell team who stepped in and finished the work for free as part of the company’s commitment to the local community.
The work carried out by Lovell included the installation of new radiators, a replacement boiler and industrial flooring to transform the studio allowing Lizzie to sell more clothing, take on bigger contracts and provide a better working environment for her team.
Lizzie says: “I couldn’t have got to where I am now without all the support from Sharing the Success and its partners including Leeds Ahead, Lovell and the Milun Centre. I’m so excited about having a fantastic space to establish my business as a hub of the local community in developing skills and providing employment.”
Lovell regional director Noel Adams commented: “When we heard what had happened with Lizzie’s studio refurbishment, we were only too happy to help out. As a Leeds-based specialist in regeneration development, we recognise the value of the Sharing the Success programme and are delighted to have been able to demonstrate our support in a practical way by completing the fit out of the workshop. We wish Lizzie every success with her business and hope that she enjoys her refurbished workspace.”
Simon Brereton, programme manager at Sharing the Success, says: “It’s great to see the results of the Sharing the Success partners working together and offering continued support the businesses they’ve helped set up. ReMade is a great example of a social enterprise which I hope will inspire many similar initiatives.”
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