20 Years of Tom & Lily Creations: An Unexpected Crossroads
Quote: “In every challenge, there is a seed of something new waiting to grow.” – Anonymous
20 years ago, I started Tom & Lily Creations.
And at the beginning of my 20th year, I felt confident about the future.
Today, in August, I honestly don’t know what that future looks like.
First came the US tariffs.
Then postage prices soared.
Around 40% of my turnover, if not more, came from American customers. Suddenly, selling to the US became so expensive that I effectively lost that market.
It was a huge blow.
But I took it in my stride. I adapted, stayed positive and focused on Europe.
I thought, okay, this is a challenge. We’ll find another way.
And then came the new EU packaging regulations.
I am completely behind the principle. I believe in recycling. I believe we should reduce waste and take responsibility for the packaging we put into the world.
But there has to be some proportionality.
I am a tiny handmade business.
I am not Amazon, Shein or Temu.
Yet I am now facing additional costs, administration and compliance requirements that could have a very real impact on whether my business remains financially viable.
And the timing has made it even more frustrating. The new rules became applicable in the middle of August, when so many of the people and organisations we need answers from are on holiday.
So small businesses are left trying to work out what we need to do, what it will cost and whether we can actually afford to keep trading.
This isn’t me complaining.
It is me being honest.
I started this 20th year feeling excited about the next chapter.
Now I am asking myself whether there will be a 21st year.
Happy Stitching!
