Who are you?

Shona Forbes Director of Re-Wrap-It LTD

What does your business do?

School packed lunches are traditionally wrapped in cling film, tin foil or plastic bags which end up in land fill sites - so, I make reusable sandwich wrappers.

Not only does it keep the sandwich or food fresh inside, but it also unfolds into a plate so it is ideal for keeping your desk clean and you don't have to worrying about toddlers eating food from the floor or dirty picnic tables.

They're perfect for toddler finger food, school or offices packed lunches or picnics.

The Wrapper can be used every day and you just wipe down the food grade plastic side and give them an occasional rinse in the sink to get rid of any spill marks on the outside. The Wrappers are sealed up with a Velcro strip to keep it fresh.

Where are you based?

I'm based in Glasgow and work from home but with the use of office space thanks to Entrepreneurial Spark

How did you get started?

I got started literally working on the kitchen table and selling the Wrappers at school fairs and through my website.

What is your background

I have a degree in Landscape Architecture, I worked as a Landscape Architect in central Scotland for many years before giving up to look after my small children.

What is your top tip?

My top tip, keep smiling and believe in your product!

How long has your business been running?

I've been a limited company now for 2 Years.

Has anyone helped you get started and how?

Business Gateway, Targeting Innovations, and Entrepreneurial Spark have given me loads of advice, and enthusiasm from friends and family has kept me going. A friend took control of my Book Keeping and that has been a huge help.

Another friend helps with the sewing, but I'm also looking into the opportunity of the inmates at Kilmarnock Prison making them for me, as orders increase.

I think this would be great venture as it gives them a job and teaches them a skill that would hopefully put them in a better position to get a job once they are released.

As a green reusable product I'm very keen for the manufacture to be kept in Scotland.

What was your first deal?

My first sale was at a Scotstoun Primary School Fair.

What was your biggest mistake/or what would you do differently?

I would have concentrated on the business marketing more. I'm just discovering how to use Social Media and I really think there are great opportunities within that field.

Who was/is your mentor/or inspiration?

My inspiration is from a positive group of supportive friends, and that cannot be underestimated.

Where do you plan your business to be in five years time?

In five years time I'd love to see the Wrappers in every packed lunch box and the amount of plastic bags/cling film/tinfoil from sandwich wrapping in landfill greatly reduced.

Useful contacts (e.g. business gateway/entrepreneurial spark, jobs and business Glasgow, money advice service websites, email addresses) (optional answer)

Contact Details

www.re-wrap-it.co.uk

07801 566 267

shonagforbes@btinternet.com