Stirling-based start-up Falling Leaf Clothing has been crowned Fashion and Beauty Start-Up of the Year at the UK finals of the StartUp Awards 2024.

Founded in 2021, Falling Leaf Clothing is an “affordable, environmentally and socially conscious clothing and accessories brand with a Scottish photography twist”.

It said: “The aim of the brand is to showcase the beauty of Scotland through brand founder Lindsay Galloway-Hall’s own photos taken on her motorcycle travels around the country, while creating unique, sustainable clothing that doesn’t cost the Earth.”

Ms Galloway-Hall’s said: “I’m absolutely thrilled for Falling Leaf to be recognised alongside these other fantastic UK start-ups. It’s great to see so many new businesses emerging in this country despite all of the current challenges, especially with so many of them having a sustainability focus like ours at Falling Leaf.

“It’s a real validation of the hard work and passion all of us have put in to get here, and will inspire us to continue to push the boundaries in our respective industries. This is the future of our economy, and it’s really exciting to be a part of it.”

READ MORE: 

The UK Start-Up Awards, supported by national banking partner Starling Bank, offer a chance for businesses to gain recognition and exposure, build brand visibility, make industry contacts, and network with potential investors, all while celebrating the incredible achievements of start-ups in the early years of their business journey. There were 1600 entries.

Adeel Hyder, of Starling Bank, said: “Attending the inaugural national final of the UK Startup Awards was an inspirational experience. It was uplifting to see so many young businesses thriving – particularly after the difficulties of the past few years. Congratulations to all the winners and finalists, they are a welcome boost to the UK economy creating job opportunities and developing skills to drive growth.”

Professor Dylan Jones-Evans, founder of the UK Start-Up Awards, praised the winners, noting that this year’s national winners not only showcase the best of UK entrepreneurship but also serve as inspiring role models for others considering starting a business.

He said: “We’ve had some fantastic businesses apply this year and the winners at the first-ever UK final represent the ‘best of the best’ entrepreneurial new businesses from all nations and regions. From innovative ventures developing AI, Cleantech, and MedTech to outstanding firms in sectors such as consumer products, fashion and beauty, and tourism and leisure, those that have won this year’s awards demonstrate the incredible entrepreneurial talent that exists across the UK.”