Lucie Macleod, a 24-year-old entrepreneur from Pembrokeshire, has built a multi-million-pound business from a simple idea that took off after a TikTok video showcasing her hair transformation went viral during the lockdown. What started as a DIY project in her university kitchen to fix her own damaged hair has now turned into a successful natural haircare brand called Hair Syrup. The brand’s products are not only available on its own website but also stocked in popular retailers like Boots, BeautyBay, Lookfantastic, and ASOS.
Reflecting on the beginnings of her business, Lucie admitted that it all started almost accidentally. The positive feedback and demands for her magic hair oil after her TikTok video went viral pushed her to consider turning her homemade products into a business. Despite initial reservations and uncertainties about selling hair products from her home, the overwhelming interest from customers led her to take the leap and start exploring the world of entrepreneurship.
In the span of a year and a half, Lucie’s business grew rapidly, prompting her to set up a warehouse and navigate the complexities of running a successful business. She candidly shared that she had to learn everything on the job, including unfamiliar concepts like VAT and registering her company on Companies House. Despite the challenges of working from a rural location in Pembrokeshire, Lucie remains determined to overcome logistical hurdles and stereotypes associated with Welsh businesses to propel her brand forward.
One significant milestone for Lucie was getting her products into Boots, a goal that she had envisioned since the early days of Hair Syrup. Although she faced skepticism from others, her belief in the quality of her products never wavered. While achieving this feat was a momentous occasion, Lucie’s entrepreneurial spirit keeps her focused on the future and exploring opportunities to expand her brand globally, with plans to target markets in Europe, particularly Norway and other Scandinavian countries, as well as Australia.
Despite not securing investment on a recent appearance on Dragons’ Den, Lucie viewed the experience as invaluable, receiving constructive feedback and insights from the Dragons that she continues to apply to her business. Looking ahead, Lucie aspires to drive her company towards eight-figure annual revenue and cement Hair Syrup’s position as a leading brand in the haircare industry. Her journey from a viral TikTok video to a multi-million-pound business serves as a testament to the power of seizing unexpected opportunities and persevering through challenges.
Lucie’s story showcases the potential for success that can stem from a single idea and a viral moment in the digital age. Her commitment to her brand’s growth, paired with her determination to challenge stereotypes and boost her local economy, exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit thriving in unexpected corners of Wales. As she continues to navigate the evolving landscape of business, Lucie Macleod stands as an inspiring example of turning passion and creativity into a flourishing enterprise, with her eyes set on making Hair Syrup a globally recognised brand.