Brightpearl’s Lightning 50 was launched in 2021 to recognize the UK’s fastest-growing online brands. With the full shortlist now announced, we’re taking a closer look at the sectors that have seen some of the most impressive results.
In this blog, we’re looking at the homewares sector.
Over the past year or two, most of us have spent more time in our homes than ever before – and many have chosen, understandably, to splash any spare cash on items that make our homes more like sanctuaries.
One study found that the appetite for homeware products increased exponentially around the globe over the last year. In fact, the homewares industry is said to have benefited more than any other from the pandemic, with sales growing by 500%.
Home sweet home
“Such epic growth in this sector is understandable – when you’re spending weeks on end in your home, nobody can blame you for wanting to buy some nice things to spruce it up!” said Mark Hook, Global Director of Comms at Brightpearl.
“There are nine homewares brands on this year’s Lightning 50 league table – each with its own success story and impressive growth to show for it.
“Investing in core technology has proven once again to play a significant role in fueling growth, from signing up with a solid e-commerce platform to finding the right flexible retail operating system.”
Let’s look at some of the homewares brands that made the list…
Olivia’s
Lightning 50 ranking: 6
Revenue increase: 500%
Olivia’s provides homeowners with on-trend, fashion-forward furniture and lighting.
Its award winning interior designers hand pick each item in its Instagram-worthy range, working closely with various artisans, designers and brands to ensure the quality of each piece.
While the world spent more time at home than ever before in 2020, Olivia’s scaled rapidly. With 500% revenue growth, the brand won the number 6 spot on the Lightning 50 league table. High demand driven by COVID-19 restrictions and cultural changes fueled the growth, alongside investment in key technology.
Tradeprices Bathrooms
Lightning 50 ranking: 9
Revenue increase: 423%
Founded in 2012, Tradeprices Bathrooms has quickly established itself as one of the fastest growing retailers of branded bathrooms and accessories. The Cardiff, UK-based business prides itself on exceptional quality products and service.
The brand achieved 423% revenue growth in 2020, securing it ninth place in the Lightning 50. The company’s growth has been driven by the sector growth but also by access to a network of British companies that support Tradeprices with supply, marketing, finance, and delivery.
Harvey George Furniture
Lightning 50 ranking: 13
Revenue increase: 300%
Based in Harrogate, England, Harvey George Furniture manufactures bespoke painted furniture for every room, including bathroom vanity units, kitchens and bedroom furniture, all available in popular Farrow & Ball Colours.
With Brightpearl underpinning its entire operation, providing a vital central source of truth across all sales channels, Harvey George has celebrated 300% growth – which it also reports is down to brand development work and social media marketing.
Top 5 tech driving growth in the homewares sector:
- Shopify
- Etsy
- Brightpearl
- Zendesk
Do you run a homewares brand that’s doing awesome things?
Register your interest for next year’s Lightning 50 by clicking here.
