Unfortunately, during this time many of those working in the creative and hospitality industries found themselves out of work and uncertain of what the future would look like. It was a difficult time for many. 

However, for some, job loss and lockdown served as an unexpected gift, providing time that hadn’t been available before and the opportunity to make a start on business ideas and chase those long-held dreams. 

In this article, we will be talking about four entrepreneurs who found their startup niche during COVID-19. 

1. Ash and Plumb

Founded in 2020 by Barnaby Ash and Dru Plumb, the woodwork startup (cleverly titled Ash and Plumb) was a startup niche few dared venture into during such troubled times. However, Barnaby and Dru had always wanted to start their own business doing something they loved. They had both always been fascinated by handcrafted design and loved to build things with their hands. However, both had stored away their dreams for a rainy day in the future. 

That rainy day came during the UK’s first lockdown hit and Dru lost his job. With no employment and an uncertain future, they decided it was time to shoot caution to the wind and take a shot at their dreams. So, they set up a small workshop space in their garage in Sussex and got to work. 

In their own words, Barnaby and Dru explain how: “In an increasingly mass-produced culture, we choose to walk a different path; paying tribute to traditional craft in a modern context we realise classically sculpted pieces that allow the natural beauty of the material to shine. We believe in craft as the perfect medium for our personal expression, a chance to meditate on the task at hand with meticulous focus and truly connect with the materials with which we work.” 

Their passion and attention to detail can certainly be seen in the beautiful sculptures they create. From bowls and vases to bespoke commissioned pieces, Ash and Plumb are setting the standard for wood-turning in Sussex and are an inspiration to other creatives wanting to take that first step towards their business dreams.

2. Cerulean

The onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns caused many people to consider their health more than they ever had before. From news outlets to Facebook walls, it seemed like there was an influx of information about the virus and it was becoming difficult to decipher what was fact and what was fiction. 

London-based doctors, Claire, Alasdair, along with business professional, Nick were quick to realise that false information was spreading as quickly as the virus and that many people were being exposed to irrelevant and medically unfounded information. As frontline doctors with a strong belief in medical testing they knew it was time to take a stand and together formed Cerulean. 

The company launched C19 Testing to, “Help people take control of their health through transparent, evidence-based information and access to medical testing.” Cerulean provides affordable coronavirus testing for families, individuals, and businesses as part of the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. They also provide up-to-date, medically backed, evidence-based information about testing, so that people can make informed and safe choices. 

3. Ved Cooks

Ved Cooks is a small startup started by entrepreneur, Verity de Yong, from her home kitchen. With a background in fashion design, Verity has always been passionate about the materials we use and where they come from. 

As Verity explains: “During the pandemic, I noticed how much waste I was generating, with eating every meal at home in lockdown, so started to experiment with the skins and leftovers of various food items to see if they could be used to create natural dyes for fabric.” 

As the world around her was falling into chaos and news stories about environment challenges and COVID-19 restrictions were being released daily, Verity wanted to take control of what she could by creating something that was both eco-friendly and beautiful. She promoted her business via Instagram and other social media channels, using image-based promotions to help generate sales. She is currently working on creating a new range of linens designed to mimic the seasons. 

4. Castle Farm Shop

During lockdown, people were emptying the supermarket shelves until there was quite literally a food shortage in places because the stocks couldn’t be replenished fast enough. Bishton-based farmer, Kevin Rickard, set up a community hub during the first lockdown where he committed himself to delivering fresh produce to locals. It was a much-needed service and one of the most effective ways he could serve his local community, particularly the vulnerable and those most in need. 

Now, the Castle Farm Shop is thriving. Kevin has converted an old horse lorry into a mobile farm shop that he drives to the Kingsway Centre to act as a standalone store. In a community far from big supermarkets, it can be hard for people to come by the produce they need to cook a nice, hearty meal. Kevin’s efforts at the Castle Farm Shop ensure everyone receives the produce they need. What’s more, his efforts to supply and deliver food are providing an excellent way to connect with the local community and serve them in the way he does best.

Final Words 

It goes without saying that COVID-19 has been (and continues to be) extremely challenging for many people. However, there are stories of hope. Despite the hard times, people are still chasing their dreams, serving their communities, an