One woman’s discouraging encounter with an online clothing manufacturer has resulted in the latest Wansbeck business success.

Kate Dawson was so disappointed that she couldn’t buy sleepsuits for older children on the high street that she decided to manufacture her own to the standard and specifications she would expect herself. “We launched the web site www.the-all-in-one-company.co.uk  in October 2008 and have already set up our own factory to keep up with the demand, the feedback we receive is so positive, people are loving the sleepsuits and the matching blankets and hot water bottle covers which can all be embroidered to their specification, we have even received boxes of chocolates as thank you gifts”.

The All-in-One Company manufacture and design sleepsuits for all ages and sizes for both children and adults, customers can even create their own unique designs.

Kate, of Ellington who received help from Go Wansbeck and BENE en route to getting set up, moved her business to North Seaton Industrial Estate in July after outgrowing her operation in Blyth. ‘’I contacted Luke Dunnett, Commercial Premises Co-ordinator with the Wansbeck Business Forum.  Luke was able to identify a number of     

workshops for me to view and I’m pleased to be up and running at our base in North Seaton. I now have the space and facilities to keep on top of everything and in time grow the business even more.”

Luke said, “From first meeting Kate it was apparent that she had ambitious plans and the enthusiasm and drive to see them through. I am delighted to see The All-in-One Company successfully trading in Wansbeck and I wish them luck for the future”.

Since moving to her new premises, Kate has had in excess of 100 orders from all over the world – even as far afield as Australia.” Because of the demand I’ve been able to employ 3 full time Machinists and Cutters”. Gillian, Joy and Edith worked at Shark Group in Broomhill until they were made redundant when the factory closed in March. “I was fortunate that I found experienced, skilled staff who were able to walk into the job and what’s even better is they have worked together for years -  I feel like the newcomer!”

So optimistic is Kate about the future of the company that she has commissioned another cutting table and has plans to recruit another full time Cutter.

“Our sleepsuits aim to bring warmth, fun and happiness into your life. They are warm to save on your heating costs, comfortable, fun, safe and above all unique. We like to think that we are doing something different and our success reflects that and will I hope will continue to do so.”

Along the way Kate has had help from a number of people who deserve a note of thanks.  “I would particularly like to thank my family and friends for their total support they have given me throughout the whole process, Jan Grieveson and Karl McCracken Community Enterprise Coaches for their help and continuing support, Luke for his help with our premises search, Woodhorn Museum and staff for posing for the website and for the space they kindly donated for the photo shoot in the workshop galleries and last but not least Jane Nolan of Shark Group who helped me to recruit my staff and for donating our office furniture. Many thanks.”

The All-in-One Company are located at Unit 10b Armstrong Court, North Seaton Industrial Estate, Ashington and can be contacted by calling 01670 522 478
or by visiting www.the-all-in-one-company.co.uk

Kate Dawson at her premises on North Seaton Industrial Estate