Member Spotlight: The Peaky Grinder

Like many mobile businesses operating today, The Peaky Grinder was a concept brought to fruition following a redundancy during Covid-19. We first caught up with Emma nearly 12 months ago to get the background behind the business and more clarification on how a trip to Cornwall inspired her to do a complete 180 regarding her career. With another year of trading under her belt, we sat down for a quick chat to get an update on what she learned in 2024 and what the New Year has instore for the business.

It’s been 12 months since we last caught up with you, what were the highlights from 2024?

Thanks for having me back! Highlights of 2024 were getting a second unit, finding lovely, reliable, hardworking ladies to help me out in the busy months, plus my professional photo shoot and fancy new website! www.thepeakygrinder.co.uk 

What are some important lessons you learnt in 2024?

Not to pay upfront crazy amounts of money for events that promise but don’t deliver. I negotiate a percentage and tend to get the majority of bookings/events (I’ve had to be brave and it’s risky but it’s paying off and as a result, my cash flow is much better!) Not all event organisers will agree to it, but I just have to walk away and find something else. I’m trying to focus more on corporate and private events going forward into 2025.

An independent hospitality business that inspires you?

Paisley Flour Catering based in Stourport. They provide bespoke catering for events and weddings and they have a new venue called Paisley at No.106 as well. Emma is an extremely driven and talented lady.

How do you manage the work – life balance?

I don’t work every day which allows me to catch up with friends and family. I also enjoy walking, swimming and pilates; healthy body, healthy mind and all that! This is why I want to try and focus on corporate and private events going forward as many events are during the week. As much as I love my free time, I love my work too so more the merrier.

Tell us about some of your favourite events you’ve traded at?

I was on a film set which I can’t discuss at the moment as I’ve signed an NDA, but I can once the film is released. I really enjoyed a two-day open day event at Hayloft Plants in Pershore with a lovely bunch of people. I also have my van at  Aggborough home of Kidderminster harriers and sometimes get invited to Sixways in Worcester for the rugby. The horse events, countryside and agricultural shows are great fun too, I won ‘Best in Show’ at Far Forest Countryside Show this summer.

What goes into the best coffee ever?

A good barista of course! Seriously though, good quality beans, getting the milk right and to make every coffee with love.

Your ultimate food guilty pleasure?

I love a good platter of cheese and biscuits with pickled onions from the lady down the road.

What are your favourite seasonal specials?

It’s difficult to choose a favourite season but making iced coffees in the summer are up there – could be something to do with the weather though to be fair. My luxury hot chocolates with cream and marshmallows and boozy coffees go down rather well in the winter too.

What are your plans for the business in 2025 and beyond?

Definitely promote my new website and focus more on securing corporate and private events.

If you could provide start-ups with one piece of advice, what would it be?

Join NCASS and I really mean that and have a business plan.

What’s been your biggest achievement as a business?

Still being here and doing what I love.

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