We are publishing the stories behind the 2021 eBay for Business Awards winners and the winner of the Family Business award is Adewumi and Samuel Akinyotu and Fashion Flair.
Adewumi came to the UK to obtain a higher degree whilst her husband taught mathematics. In 2011, after the couple had their first baby, they fell into financial hardship as both struggled to find work.
As a way to make extra money, Adewumi started selling gifts she had made on eBay, making her first sale in May 2012. She remembers her first piece of feedback which read “I am well pleased with my item and with the level of service you offered. You will prosper on eBay in the future”. It was this message that sparked the energy between her and her husband to keep on selling second-hand items together on eBay.
Fashion Flair specialises in second-hand and new shoes, clothing and bags, from both designer and high street brands. They add new items to their shop everyday to keep their offering fresh for their customers.
Last year, Fashion Flair turned over £78,000, which led the couple to renting a warehouse and office area, where each handpicked item is sorted, listed and packed for sale. Adewumi and her husband hope to keep building on their success so far and even start employing staff in the near future.
“There are so many brilliant businesses on eBay, so we’re thrilled to have been chosen as the winners of the Family Business Award. I see it as a testament to our journey from being unemployed and living day to day, to now being the founders of a thriving, independent business. It hasn’t been easy managing the business while raising our three sons, but we’re so proud of how far we’ve come.”
– Adewumi Akinyotu, co-owner, Fashion Flair
