An Exmouth enterprise which has just celebrated its first anniversary has been named among the regional finalists for the UK Business StartUp Awards.

Grace’s Giclée Art Print Shop, a premium-quality art and postcard printing service for artists and illustrators, was launched by co-directors Grace Middleton and Julia Gash at the beginning of 2023. In their first year of trading they have built up an active customer database of more than 1,000, including many local artists.

Grace won the Devon Women in Business Female StartUp of the Year Award 2023. The company is now among four finalists for the South West Creative StartUp of the Year 2024.

Professor Dylan Jones-Evans OBE, the creator of the UK StartUp Awards, said: “​​Start-up businesses are the lifeblood of any economy, being responsible for new jobs, innovation and wealth creation across the UK.

"All the finalists this year represent the best of those entrepreneurs who have spotted an opportunity and through their sheer hard work, talent and perseverance, have created amazing new businesses that are creating real impact in their sectors.”

As Grace’s Giclée Art Print Shop celebrated its successful first year, Grace Middleton and Julia Gash have been reflecting on the business’s achievements and strategising for the future. They plan to introduce another print machine so that they can broaden their paper stock range and further expand their growing customer base.

Grace Middleton says: “Reflecting on this past year has me feeling grateful and I am amazed by what we have achieved. Our growth as a new business has been incredible. And the cherry on top? Winning the DWIB Start-Up of the Year award!

"I’d like to thank everyone who has supported Grace’s Giclée Art Print Shop since we opened, including my co-director, Julia Gash, who has mentored and guided me every step of the way. I look forward to seeing what this year brings!”

To find out more about the services offered by Grace’s Giclée, visit www.gracesgiclee.co.uk or email info@gracesgiclee.co.uk.