In an inspiring tale of entrepreneurship, Jolene Roberts, a mum from Edinburgh, has turned her passion for eco-friendly products into a thriving soap empire. After quitting her high-stress corporate job, Roberts began making soap in her spare bedroom during the pandemic. Her business, Oir, has since grown exponentially, moving from her home to a commercial space in Dalmeny. Roberts’ journey from a marketing professional to a successful business owner highlights the power of determination and creativity in achieving one’s dreams.
From Corporate Life to Soap Making
Jolene Roberts’ transition from the corporate world to soap making was driven by a desire for a more fulfilling and environmentally conscious career. After the birth of her son in 2016, Roberts became increasingly aware of the environmental impact of household products. This led her to explore ways to reduce her family’s plastic and chemical use. Shower gels and soaps were among the first products she decided to replace with eco-friendly alternatives.
Roberts’ initial attempts at soap making were not without challenges. She recalls melting a brand-new microwave with essential oils during her early experiments. Despite these setbacks, her determination to create high-quality, ethical products never wavered. With the support of her family and friends, Roberts honed her craft and began producing soaps that quickly gained popularity.
The pandemic provided Roberts with the time and opportunity to fully immerse herself in her new venture. She converted her garage into a dedicated soap studio and began selling her products online. The positive response from customers encouraged her to expand her business further. By November 2022, Oir was officially launched, marking the beginning of Roberts’ journey as an entrepreneur.
Building a Business from Scratch
Starting a business from scratch required Roberts to learn various aspects of entrepreneurship, from product development to marketing and sales. With an initial investment of around £2,000, she had to be resourceful and creative in managing her finances. Roberts’ background in marketing proved invaluable as she developed branding and promotional strategies for Oir.
Roberts’ commitment to sustainability and ethical practices set her products apart in a competitive market. She focused on using natural ingredients and eco-friendly packaging, which resonated with environmentally conscious consumers. Her dedication to quality and transparency helped build a loyal customer base, leading to increased demand for her products.
As Oir grew, Roberts faced the challenge of scaling up production while maintaining the integrity of her brand. She moved her operations from her garage to a commercial space in Dalmeny, allowing her to meet the rising demand. The expansion also enabled her to stock her products in over 150 shops across the UK, Switzerland, USA, Panama, and Germany. Roberts’ ability to adapt and grow her business has been a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit.
Future Aspirations and Impact
Looking ahead, Jolene Roberts has ambitious plans for Oir. She aims to continue expanding her product line and reach new markets. Roberts is also passionate about educating consumers on the benefits of sustainable living and hopes to inspire others to make environmentally conscious choices. Her journey from a corporate job to running a successful soap empire serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Roberts’ story highlights the importance of following one’s passion and the impact that small businesses can have on promoting sustainability. Her commitment to ethical practices and quality products has not only contributed to her business success but also to a broader movement towards eco-friendly living. As Oir continues to grow, Roberts remains dedicated to her mission of creating a positive impact on the planet.
The success of Oir is a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation. Jolene Roberts’ journey from making soap in her spare bedroom to running a thriving business demonstrates that with determination and creativity, it is possible to turn a passion into a successful enterprise. Her story is a reminder that even in challenging times, new opportunities can arise, leading to unexpected and rewarding paths.
