New Shropshire businesses are hoping to defy the recession.

While Tony Blair may have gained attention with his “education, education, education” speech, it seems the current coalition Government only wants to talk about cuts.­

While Britain knew it was coming, businesses in Shropshire have grown tired of the bleak outlooks, particularly in retail, where the county is enjoying something of a boom.

It could be said that there was never a riskier time to open a business but if there is one positive to a recession it is that it breeds an entrepreneurial spirit. Now, with most jobs at some risk, people are realising they have the opportunity to balance lifestyle choice with career commitments.

It was certainly the case for Leonah Timbrell who has launched a new florist’s in Trench, Telford.

Colours brings exactly that, with a rainbow of shades, to this corner of Telford but it’s also a chance for Leonah to express a creativity and business brain that she has been longing to showcase.

She spent many years raising her family, but now her children are old enough to tackle the walk to school without parental supervision, she decided it was time to launch her own venture.

Leonah said: “The mood in Shropshire is a positive one and I also think it does help you to be more creative with your business if the economic climate is a challenge. I looked at developing canvas floral arrangements for businesses which wanted to reduce their bills for fresh flowers but still create a welcoming atmosphere in their premises. I also wanted an area in the shop which was welcoming to customers and where they feel they could take their time to choose floral arrangements and other gifts, either for weddings or funerals, or just that one-of.

“I think at the moment people do want to feel as if they are getting value for money and that there is someone there who cares about their custom. Customer service is the key here and I am so looking forward to building long-lasting relationships with my customers and with other businesses in the area. This is about having a positive attitude and enjoying what you are doing and the part you play in the community. I love flowers and I am certainly enjoying this new business.”

Louise Bateman and Lynn Gould launched Vintage & White, in Baschurch

It was a similar attitude which led to the launch of Vintage & White in Baschurch by Louise Bateman and Lynn Gould.

The pair, who are good friends, both have a keen interest in retail and a passion for stylish and elegant home accessories and gifts, together with families to look after.

“We recognised a niche in our community for stylish, quality items to be made available locally, without the inconvenience of travelling into the towns,” said Louise.

“We both have a passion for interiors and soft furnishings and appreciate the detail of quality items. We love sourcing products from the vast array of suppliers, and finding something a little different to offer. We decided to open in Baschurch as I live here and Lynn is originally from the next village, although she lives near Loppington now so it is about lifestyle choices.

“As local mums we have obviously worked the business planning around our family lifestyles. We had huge support from our husbands with the refurbishment of the business premises.

Louise and Lynn feel they have launched at the right time but know the current climate does present certain challenges.

“Obviously the retail scene is difficult for all businesses at present, which means that retailers have to be innovative and tuned in to their customers’ requirements, providing good quality items and service, at fair prices.

“Our aim at Vintage & White is to source from smaller suppliers and artisans where possible, who can offer something a little different, and to maintain mutual trading benefits.”

Shrewsbury has also seen new additions to the retail scene with several new shops opening on Wyle Cop in the last few months, while new retail concept The Hub opened at Telford Shopping Centre, together with a new Peacocks store about to add to the retail scene.

But while opening premises is part of this new boom time people launching retail enterprises from home is also helping to fuel a more positive vibe.

Mel Garton, of Celebrations Box, based in Wrockwardine Wood

Mel Garton has launched Celebrations Box from her home in Wrockwardine Wood, Telford after deciding it was time for a change of pace to her life.

She gave up work to devote her time to the new venture, after getting inspiration for her business idea while planning her own wedding.

Now Mel specialises in gifts for all kinds of occasions and party requirements and also will put together a special box of goodies for people hoping to wow while recognising a family celebration.

“I have wanted to do something like this for a long time. I love sourcing the gifts and talking to customers together with pulling together all the branding for Celebrations Box.

“It has been great fun and I do think people now want to deal with someone they can get to know and will have an ongoing relationship with because they want to know they are getting the best value for their money. I would love to do someone’s wedding favours and for them to be so pleased with the service that they come back to me for christening gifts and other landmark dates. The recession did give me the push I needed and I have no regrets. It’s a very exciting time for me and generally for new businesses in Shropshire.”

The business is currently online but Mel has ambitions to open premises in the future.

By Tracey O’Sullivan