A Ribble Valley based bathroom design business is celebrating a successful first five years after being launched by two entrepreneurial sisters determined to put a female stamp on the male-dominated sector.
Founded in 2018 by Abbie and Sophie Schofield, Ribble Valley Bathrooms, which designs and installs luxury bathrooms across the region and the whole of the UK, has experienced a remarkable 165% growth since launch, navigating Covid and the cost of living crisis to grow year-on-year.
The business, which has a showroom in Clitheroe, was established by Abbie and Sophie after they realised that there was a huge gap in the market for a luxury bathroom specialist which offered a 360 degree service and the highest level of customer service. They work with the world’s leading luxury bathroom brands to offer customers an unrivalled choice of furniture, fixtures and fittings; designing all bathrooms themselves in-house and offering their own install service.
Sophie 33, co-founder of Ribble Valley Bathrooms, said: “It’s been a phenomenal first five years. When we launched the business in 2018 we knew that we could offer the sector something different. Bathrooms and plumbing are notoriously a male dominated industry but homeowners were looking for so much more than what currently existed.
“They want cutting edge design, quality craftmanship, high end finishes and the highest level of customer service from the minute they walked into a showroom. We had the passion and know-how to put our stamp on the sector and so in 2018 we took the leap to launch the business and open the showroom.
“The first five years of our journey have been nothing short of remarkable – we have secured partnerships with industry-leading brands that have enhanced our product offerings; worked on projects of all shapes and sizes the length and breadth of the UK and received the “Innovative Retailer of the Year” award, recognising our commitment to creative solutions.
“At the same time the wider economic climate has been through some unprecedented change. Covid created many challenges – from customer experience to supply chain issues; whilst market trends and design innovation continue to move at pace; not to mention the ongoing threat of recession which has placed strain on the industry as a whole.
“As such we have quickly learnt the importance of adaptability, resilience, and continuous learning. Adapting to change and being open to innovation have been crucial in staying ahead in a dynamic and ever-changing industry.
Abbie 31, continued: “Redefining the sector is something that is at the foremost of our business and we truly believe that our success is down to the updated outlook that we have brought. It’s something that we plan to build on over the coming years.
“As young female entrepreneurs, we are passionate about inspiring other female leaders in a predominantly male dominated industry. We intend to engage in mentorship programs, workshops, and events that empower women to excel in this industry. Expanding our team is also a priority, as we believe in fostering a diverse and dynamic workforce.
“For aspiring women entrepreneurs entering male-dominated sectors or women working in male dominated industries, we offer these words of advice: Be confident in your abilities, find mentors who can guide you, and never underestimate the power of networking. Your unique perspective is your strength; use it to drive innovation and make a lasting impact.”
Sophie concluded: “Whilst we will be stopping to raise a glass and celebrate our achievements, we also have ambitious growth plans for the next five years. We’re excited to explore new suppliers and venture into innovative areas that align with our brand’s ethos. Whilst also continuing to lead by design and advocating for clients to perceive the bathroom space as a pivotal room within their homes. The industry has moved far beyond the era of basic four-piece suites and traditional 600×300 tiles and we are changing perceptions of bathroom design, one project at a time!”
Ribble Valley Bathrooms is based at Barrow Brook Trade Park, North Rd, Clitheroe BB7 9QZ
