Sophie Oliver: Coco Ribbon

Sophie Oliver
Age: 31
Company: Coco Ribbon

Started in 2002 with co-founder Alison Chow, the London-based boutique Coco Ribbon has proved so successful that Kylie Minogue made a personal visit to request that it stock her  latest lingerie range. After an initial injection of just £42,500, first-year sales of £434,000 are expected to grow to £700,000 this year. There are plans for more stores and online offerings and the launch of their own fashion, accessories and gift range. The pair are considering funding options to catalyse further expansion.

2017 update: 

Coco Ribbon ceased trading and went into administration after it fell prey to the economic downturn in 2009. Despite plans to expand into Russia and a 60% growth in its online output, online sales were not able to salvage the company. Oliver stepped down as director in 2009 and set herself up as a business consultant.