Sutherland Saddlery & Pets

Thursday 10th January 2008

Julie Sutherland, owner of Sutherland Saddlery & Pets, started trading in January 2006 by making and repairing bridles in a workshop at the side of her house. During the last two years, Julie has worked hard to build up an excellent reputation for providing an efficient and quality service. Her business is now in its third phase of expansion having recently opened new premises near Pembroke Dock offering a wide range of equestrian and pet related products and services.

Julie previously worked as an IT Trainer, but, after leaving a stressful job, she decided to look at a change in career direction. Julie has always had active interest in all things equestrian so the idea of setting up her own business related to the hobby she enjoyed so much seemed ideal.

Julie began to re-train in basic leather bridle and leatherwork making and repairs. At that time, she was receiving support from the New Deal Scheme run by Jobcentre Plus who referred Julie to PBI to help further her self-employment ambitions. Under the New Deal Scheme, Julie had the opportunity to ‘test trade’ the business for a six month period whilst receiving support from one of PBI’s Start-Up advisers, Sarah Winter. Sarah provided Julie with advice & guidance on issues such as market research and marketing the business, funding and financial management and developing a business plan for the future.

The six month period was so successful that at the end of the trial, with help from PBI, Julie was confident in her goals and well prepared to start developing the products and services that Sutherland Saddlery could offer. Sutherland Saddlery now offers a bespoke leather work service and full repair service, including traditionally made handstitched bridlework and saddlery, and even handbags and dancing shoes. She has also developed a range of designer browbands and accessories for show horses and ponies some of which were featured on entrants at the 2007 Horse of the Year show.

Sutherland saddlery offers an on-site rug washing and repair service and stocks a wide range of horse feeds, supplements, grooming products and rider accessories and clothing, including ‘Fuller Fillies’ items. The business has also added a pet department to its portfolio of services which includes small animals, pet food and accessories and a bespoke service for made to measure dog collars, leads and harnesses. In 2007, Julie was successful in reaching the Finalist stage of the 2007 Pembrokeshire Start- Up business of the Year category – a real achievement! For 2008, she plans to continue to grow the business including developing online services through her new website which will be launched in the next few months.

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