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Success story: Dutch by Design

This light fitting is just one of the striking, modern, home accessories found at dutchbydesign.com. The company was founded in 2003 by Wenche de Rooij and Dean Hart as an online retailer of "interior design classics for tomorrow."

Early success, however, was not enough to persuade mainstream lenders to fund their growth. Fortunately, Wenche and Dean were able to raise £25,000 from a London Business Loans backed fund to develop a new website for Dutch By Design and finance a new back office system. Since then, the business has gone from strength to strength, selling lighting, tableware, furniture and shelving.

Wenche's working life began well, graduating with a degree in international marketing to start a job in the City. However, a debilitating illness meant that was short lived. Unbowed by the setback, Wenche took her career into her own hands and persuaded Dean to join her to start Dutch By Design.

The business is now a hit with the media, having had features appearing in the Sunday Times, Guardian, Telegraph and Daily Mail. The company's turnover is continuing to grow and plans are in hand to add many new and exciting designs to an already eye-catching product range.

www.dutchbydesign.com