A shop in Richmond town centre has been named as a start-up business to watch this year.

Seekology is a destination store on Hill Rise for independent beauty and wellbeing brands.

Founded by Rebecca Saunders, a former John Lewis beauty buyer, it has been selected by Enterprise Nation as one of the top start-ups for 2021.

A delighted Rebecca said: "At Seekology, we pride ourselves on championing independent brands and helping our customers to discover unique products.

"I am delighted to have been selected for this accolade by Enterprise Nation based on the fantastic offering I have created in Richmond, which shines a spotlight on small brands, many of which are local such as Heka Aromatherapy and bedding brand Koisi London.

"I very much hope I can open the Seekology store again soon to continue to delight the people of Richmond with our unique offering.

"In the meantime I've been hand delivering gifts in the local area – a free service to ensure customers can safely access great products whilst supporting small brands.

"Popular buys have been gifts for best friends such as candles and facial massage tools. I even hand-delivered some beautiful new pyjamas to a Twickenham dad who wanted a special gift for his wife who had just given birth."

Seekology will reopen when it is safe to do so.

Customers can shop online or email Rebecca on [email protected] for information on free local delivery.

Check out their new gift boxes - the perfect lockdown present!

What Enterprise Nation said

Physical retail has been on its knees in 2020, but if anyone knows how it can recover, it's Rebecca Saunders. The beauty entrepreneur's start-up, Seekology, connects beauty consumers with small, innovative brands by championing community, intimacy, experience and expertise. Like many small businesses, it's had to move online – but its real home, where it's assuredly at its best, is the store environment. Hearing Rebecca talk (watch out for our interview with her in the new year, especially if you have, or aspire to have, a physical retail presence), you get the impression that it won't be long until Seekology is back where it belongs.