Starting with one physical shop in 1987, Ruth co-founded what was to become Matchesfashion.com, a one-stop shop for designer clothing.
Ruth Chapman
Matches
Chrissie Rucker
Founder, The White Company
Chrissie Rucker started The White Company in 1994, when, unable to find well-designed, beautiful-quality white bed linens, that were also affordable, she decided to invest her £6,000 savings to produce them.
The White Company collection offered essentials for the home that included everything from bedspreads, pillows and duvets to luxury towels, bathrobes, china and table linen – all in simple, classic white.
The arrival of Chrissie’s first child prompted the creation of The Little White Company, a range of children’s and baby’s clothing, bedding and toys.
Today, what began life as a small 12-page mail-order brochure has become one of the UK’s fastest-growing multi-channel retailers and a trusted British lifestyle brand. “We are obsessive about the details, and believe that beautiful things should be loved and used every day,” says Chrissie.
She is a patron for The Prince’s Trust and an ambassador for Everywoman. In August 2014, She launched Chrissie’s White Heart Foundation, to help vulnerable women and children build a brighter future. The foundation currently supports Refuge, The Prince’s Trust and Place2Be.
Want to meet with Chrissie?
One of the first to see the opportunities in the mobile phone market, Charles founded Carphone Warehouse and broadband provider Talk Talk.
Sir Charles Dunstone
Carphone Warehouse
Once a celebrity hairstylist to the stars, John went on to create a range of hair care products that sold all around the world.
John Frieda
John Frieda Hair Care
Having grown up in private equity, Rowan went on to establish Virgin Money and online retailer Naked Wines; he’s now CEO of Majestic Wine.
Rowan Gormley
Majestic Wine, Naked Wines
