North East BIC helps budding entrepreneur open first boutique in Sunderland

A Sunderland entrepreneur has turned her childhood dream into a reality in the form of a baby boutique.

Based in Southwick, Nicol Lamb has opened Little Lambs Boutique with the help of the North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) to develop a retail offering that can compete with the infamous trend of online shopping.

Nicol has attracted local parents and has earned a fan base already. She specialises in Spanish-influenced clothing for children and babies, as well as accessories, gifts and prams.

Nicol said: “We all know the high street is really struggling at the moment so we aim to give people a real reason to shop locally.

“By providing a lovely shopping experience, unusual stock at competitive prices and a personal service, we are a genuine alternative to online shopping.

“We’ve already had so much support from the community and it’s lovely to be part of local life. People often send me photos of their children wearing my clothes and the Little Lamb community is really growing.

“It’s very rewarding to see my customers so happy when they find something they love and their children enjoy wearing.”

Nicol has been supported by the North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) through its startup programme by business adviser, Margaret Cook.

Nicol added: “I spent two years preparing this and Margaret walked me through each step - from researching the market and putting a business plan together to securing a loan.

“I’ve tested my products by selling them online and at markets and I had a part-time job in the children’s department of a chain store to learn the trade and understand the trends in retailing.

“Margaret has been there, right by my side, throughout - offering guidance and support and I’m extremely grateful for that. I honestly could not have done this without her.”

Nicol is the third member of her family to set up shop in Southwick. Her uncle Brian ran Homes Second Hand Furniture for 30 years on The Green and cousin Laura ran City Furnishings from the old post office before Nicol moved in.

Nicol’s mum and dad also run their own upholstery business on Kayll Road.

“I think entrepreneurship is in my blood! I’ve always wanted to do this,” Nicol added. “I’d been waiting for the perfect place to open the shop and was over the moon when my uncle said this was available - it’s lovely to carry on the family tradition and eventually I hope my sister can even join me in the business.”