Graduate Kate Rose says recession helped her firm

Apr 29 2009 by Tony Henderson, The Journal

GRADUATE Kate Rose came up with a gem of an idea after struggling to find a suitable job.

After completing her fashion and marketing degree at Northumbria University five years ago, Kate wanted to stay in the North East.

“But it was clear there weren’t many creative jobs and after eight months searching I decided to start my own business and give it a year,” said the 28-year-old, from Tynemouth.

She set up Tutti & Co to design her own fashion jewellery and will be joined soon by Sally Brown, who has been working part time for the company and who graduates from the same course in June.

Now Kate’s company supplies its products to 350 retailers in the UK, including Fenwick, and also sells in Spain, Sweden, Austria and Germany.

Kate believes the recession has benefited her business because instead of buying new clothes, many women are instead purchasing accessories to give a new look to their existing outfits.

A recent addition has been the launch of Tutti & Cutie, a children’s range of fashion accessories, including necklaces, bracelets, key chains and party pouches.

Tutti & Co and its total of five staff is the latest arrival on North Shields Fish Quay, where 33 business units have been created.

Kate has moved into one of three units in the newly renovated Dockmaster’s House, built in 1896.