an online retail store selling unique designer cushions which began in bangkok when its owner/designer moved there with her husband for work has moved its business base to australia.
sarah robinson started be still homewares in 2008 when she was inspired by the fabric available in thailand. with her partner’s job now back in australia, robinson is operating her brand from canberra.
“as with many stories i have read about women in small business, my business was started, and continues to operate, around the needs of my family,” she says. “the longer term aim being flexible work for the benefit of my family.”
interest from australian customers and retailers has spiked since robinson moved back down under, which she attributes to confidence in australian businesses and a desire to trade locally. however, the move has meant a change for the business.
“since moving back to australia the focus of my business has had to change out of necessity. i am no longer able to regularly source fabric from thailand and have been forced to look into other options.
“in the past year i have been working on the small scale manufacture of my own designs in india. the first products as a result of this work are now available. my supply of these products is secure, i am no longer limited by the amount of fabric i can get hold of and the designs are my own. this also gives me the ability to offer proper wholesale prices on these products.
“though the change in my business was forced by the move, it has ended up being a real positive one,” she explains.
robinson is currently designing her next range of cushions and looking at production opportunities in india. she also has solid plans for business growth including improvements to her website, developing a larger range and exhibiting at gift fairs.
