Support broadens horizons for Glasgow entrepreneur

About the business

A world food store in Glasgow’s East End has developed a diverse customer base following advice and support from Business Gateway.

Opened by Stephanie Sanya in 2018, FSD World Foods sells a wide range of produce and specialises in groceries for African cuisine. Stephanie currently runs the store herself but has plans to recruit a member of staff in the near future.

How Business Gateway has helped

Whilst Stephanie had the passion and desire to start up her own business, she had little knowledge of the market or legal and financial procedures she needed to follow. Therefore, she turned to Business Gateway for free business advice and support.

Chanel Bikorimana, business adviser at Business Gateway Glasgow, commented: “We guided Stephanie through the process of starting up FSD World Foods, from registering with Companies House, to opening a business bank account, writing her business plan and finding premises.”

In addition to providing the tools to make her business a reality, Business Gateway helped Stephanie to broaden her horizons and explore new markets.

Stephanie explained: “I knew that I wanted to establish a grocery store specialising in high quality products for the African market, but Business Gateway helped to me to look for gaps in the market and expand my product range to attract customers from a wider range of cultures.

“My Business Gateway adviser has been a constant source of inspiration, encouraging me to go beyond my comfort zone and develop a diverse, multi-cultural customer base.”