Rachel Watkyn is a name that has become synonymous with resilience, innovation, and sustainability in the UK’s business landscape. Best known as the founder and managing director of the Tiny Box Company, she has built a multi-million-pound enterprise that champions eco-friendly packaging solutions. Her journey from a challenging childhood and personal health battles to becoming one of the most successful entrepreneurs to appear on Dragon’s Den is nothing short of remarkable.
Early Life and Challenges
Rachel’s early years were far from easy. She spent part of her childhood in care, faced instability in education, and endured circumstances that could have easily set her back in life. However, these hardships instilled in her a remarkable sense of determination and adaptability.
Her resilience was further tested in adulthood when she faced serious health issues, including multiple bouts of cancer. These life-threatening experiences gave her a deep sense of perspective and fuelled her commitment to creating a business that had purpose beyond profit. Rachel’s ability to rise above personal adversity became one of her defining traits and a core driver of her later achievements.
The Spark of an Idea
Rachel’s entrepreneurial journey began when she was working on a fair-trade jewellery business. She noticed a glaring gap in the market: the absence of sustainable, ethically sourced packaging. Many businesses, even those with ethical products, were packaging them in materials that harmed the environment.
Recognising this opportunity, Rachel decided to take action. In 2007, she founded the Tiny Box Company from her bedroom, with the mission to provide attractive, high-quality packaging that was environmentally friendly. This decision would mark the beginning of a business revolution in sustainable packaging.
Dragon’s Den and National Recognition
In 2008, Rachel appeared on the BBC’s Dragon’s Den. Her pitch for the Tiny Box Company impressed the investors, leading Theo Paphitis and Peter Jones to invest £60,000 in her vision. This was a turning point, not only providing the financial backing she needed but also giving the business nationwide exposure.
Over the years, her investors saw a remarkable return on their investment, as the company grew rapidly. Today, Tiny Box Company stands as the most successful female-led business to emerge from the programme. This achievement has solidified Rachel Watkyn’s place in the history of British entrepreneurship.
Building the Tiny Box Company
From modest beginnings, the Tiny Box Company has evolved into a leading supplier of sustainable packaging in the UK and beyond. The company now offers more than 700 eco-friendly products, serves over 100,000 customers worldwide, and employs around 100 staff. Annual revenues have reached approximately £10 million.
Rachel’s approach to business is rooted in her unwavering commitment to sustainability. She ensures that all products are made from recycled or recyclable materials and that supply chains are as ethical and environmentally responsible as possible. By doing so, she has not only met a growing market demand but also influenced industry standards.
Overcoming Business Setbacks
Despite its success, the Tiny Box Company has faced major challenges. The business has survived a devastating warehouse fire, floods, and cyberattacks, each of which could have crippled operations. Rachel’s leadership during these crises has been instrumental in keeping the company afloat.
Her ability to adapt and make quick, decisive moves in the face of adversity has been a hallmark of her career. Whether navigating supply chain disruptions or responding to market changes, she has consistently demonstrated strategic thinking and emotional resilience.
Awards and Honours
Rachel Watkyn’s contributions to business and sustainability have earned her numerous awards and honours. These include the NatWest Everywoman Award, the Rural Business Award, and the NatWest Entrepreneur of the Year.
In 2024, her work was recognised at the highest level when she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to sustainability, ethical business growth, and exports. This prestigious honour reflects both her professional achievements and her dedication to creating a positive environmental impact.
Advocacy and Mentorship
Beyond running her company, Rachel is passionate about helping other entrepreneurs, particularly women. She launched the Tiny Box Clinic, a platform where she mentors aspiring business owners and shares practical advice on everything from sustainable sourcing to navigating investor relationships.
She is also a sought-after speaker, addressing audiences on topics such as leadership, resilience, and the importance of ethical business practices. Through her advocacy, Rachel is helping shape the next generation of conscious entrepreneurs.
Chief and Turtle – Expanding the Vision
In addition to the Tiny Box Company, Rachel co-founded Chief and Turtle, a sustainable clothing brand that focuses on quality and environmental responsibility. This venture aligns perfectly with her commitment to ethical business and demonstrates her ability to diversify successfully while staying true to her values.
By expanding into clothing, she has further cemented her reputation as a leader in sustainable consumer goods. Chief and Turtle reflects her belief that business can be a powerful force for good across multiple industries.
Core Values and Leadership Style
Rachel’s leadership style is defined by integrity, empathy, and innovation. She fosters a workplace culture that values creativity, collaboration, and respect for the environment. Her decision-making process often involves weighing financial goals against environmental and social considerations, ensuring that growth never comes at the expense of her principles.
This balanced approach has helped her maintain strong relationships with customers, employees, and suppliers. It has also earned the Tiny Box Company a loyal customer base that shares its commitment to sustainability.
Lessons from Rachel Watkyn’s Journey
Rachel’s career offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs:
- Turn Problems into Opportunities – The absence of sustainable packaging in the market became the foundation of her business success.
- Build Resilience – Her ability to overcome personal and professional adversity is a testament to the importance of mental and emotional strength.
- Stay True to Your Values – Rachel’s consistent focus on sustainability has distinguished her from competitors.
- Invest in Relationships – From Dragons’ Den investors to loyal staff, Rachel has cultivated strong, lasting professional connections.
- Embrace Adaptability – Her responses to crises have shown the importance of flexibility in business.
Future Plans and Outlook
Rachel remains focused on innovation within the sustainable packaging industry. Her goals for the coming years include expanding the range of products, further improving supply chain sustainability, and exploring new markets. She also aims to inspire more businesses to adopt environmentally responsible practices.
At the same time, Rachel continues to address broader challenges, such as rising operational costs and economic uncertainty. She believes that businesses can thrive in such conditions by remaining innovative, efficient, and committed to their core values.
Conclusion
Rachel Watkyn’s story is a powerful reminder that success is not solely about financial gain but about creating a lasting positive impact. From a challenging childhood to leading a thriving ethical business, she has shown that determination, innovation, and integrity can transform lives and industries.
Her journey with the Tiny Box Company and beyond serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs, professionals, and anyone who believes in the power of sustainable change. As she continues to champion environmental responsibility and mentor the next generation, Rachel Watkyn’s influence will undoubtedly grow, leaving a legacy that is both economically and socially significant.
