Founded in 2007, the Walpole Brands of Tomorrow mentorship programme has helped nurture over 150 emerging luxury brands that are now known around the world – names like Nyetimber, Orlebar Brown, Bremont, Richard Brendon, and Miller Harris. On Monday 24th February, twelve more will join their ranks as we reveal the next wave of companies selected to be part of the Class of '24 at our launch party at The Ned in London.
Before that time comes, we wanted to pay tribute to the exceptional businesses who are preparing to leave our programme. Discover the highlights of the past twelve months from each of our graduating Brands of Tomorrow 2024 and learn more about each company below.
Pictured above: Poodle & Blonde founders Whinnie Williams and Kierra Campbell at the Walpole Brands of Tomorrow 2024 launch party at The Ned, London. See the gallery here
Founded in December 2020, Citizens of Soil is a brand for customers who care about quality, transparency, and sustainability. As a B Corp and a member of 1% for the Planet, Citizens of Soil wants to change the olive oil industry for good by sourcing directly from small-scale producers who practise regenerative farming, and by championing the remarkable women makers.
Here, we speak to Founder of Citizens of Soil, Sarah Vachon, about her time on the programme...
Walpole: What was the best thing about being part of Brands of Tomorrow?
Sarah Vachon: Learning from other brands in our cohort and hearing from leading luxury brands on their own journey, as well as their very useful case studies and insights.
What is a piece of advice you’d give to one of the emerging luxury brands in the incoming Class of ’25?
Connect as much as possible with your fellow brands and try to do at least one non-workshop a month (like a member social or Walpole event) to get to know others.
Find out more information at citizensofsoil.com
Fielden is the English whisky that’s changing farming. Most grain in England grown for whisky is done so industrially, with chemicals. Fielden is bringing England’s fields back to life by planting heritage grains that grew here centuries ago.The grain grows in clover, a natural fertiliser that helps the soil stay healthy. The fields are wild and glorious, and the whisky is full of flavour.
Here, we speak to Head of Brand Creative for Fielden, Philippa Turner, about her time on the programme...
Walpole: What was the best thing about being part of Brands of Tomorrow?
We've found the BoT Workshops really helpful. As a small emerging brand it's been invaluable to hear from experts who've been there and done it before and they've been a great way to share learnings with the other BoT in our cohort.
What is a piece of advice you’d give to one of the emerging luxury brands in the incoming Class of ’25?
Really make the most of the amazing network of brands and individuals you gain access to. We've shared learnings, attended events and have even collaborated on a bespoke product launch with Walpole member brands.
Find out more information at fielden.com
Gigi & Olive is the ultimate luxury destination for the modern bride. The brand was launched by Georgie Le Roux in September 2019, offering a premium, personalised and unique edit of pieces, encompassing both house-designed items and curated products from female-founded brands. The company’s own line is aspirational, original and imbued with a mission to offer beautiful items that people will keep long after the party’s over.
Here, we speak to Gigi & Olive Co-Founder, Georgie Le Roux (pictured above, right), about her time on the programme...
Walpole: What was the best thing about being part of Brands of Tomorrow?
Georgie Le Roux: he best thing about being part of the Brands of Tomorrow programme was the incredible workshops and sessions, which covered a wide range of topics and featured experts from different industries sharing their knowledge. It was invaluable to gain insights from such a diverse group of specialists. I also really loved the regular brand catch-ups—being a solo founder can often feel quite lonely, but this programme provided a real sense of community and support.
What is a piece of advice you’d give to one of the emerging luxury brands in the incoming Class of ’25?
Embrace the network and resources available to you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek guidance, and build relationships—not just with mentors, but with your fellow brands. Some of the most valuable insights and opportunities come from those around you who are navigating similar challenges. And above all, stay true to your brand identity while remaining open to learning and adapting.
Find out more information at gigiandolive.com
Founded in 2020 by Matt and Claire Podesta, Huckleberry specialises in creating luxury outdoor kitchens and furniture. Handcrafted at workshops in the South of England with superb quality and attention to detail, Huckleberry makes garden products that combine FSC-certified solid oak and sustainably-sourced materials with timeless design. The result is a selection of outdoor furniture that prioritises long-lasting luxury at home, whether for city spaces or large country gardens.
Here, we speak to Huckleberry Co-Founder, Claire Podesta (pictured above, right), about her time on the programme...
Walpole: What was the best thing about being part of Brands of Tomorrow?
Claire Podesta: We found the Walpole members, the workshop leaders and our fellow Brands of Tomorrow to be a really welcoming community of like-minded people who had all gone through many of the experiences that we all share when growing a luxury brand. There was always someone there to help with any question or advice, which was extremely helpful.
What is a piece of advice you’d give to one of the emerging luxury brands in the incoming Class of ’25?
Go to every workshop and as many events as you can. You learn so much from the people you meet. Even if it’s a small nugget of advice, it could be something that has the power to change a fundamental aspect of your business. Suck it all up!
Find out more at huckleberryhome.co.uk
Jukes Cordialities was founded by friends Jack Hollihan and Matthew Jukes in late 2019 when a ‘dry’ lunch together inspired them on a journey to create a genuinely sophisticated, alcohol-free alternative to fine wine. Over two years of experimentation using nearly 200 fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices and edible flowers, Jukes Cordialities launched its first two offerings – winning plaudits from London’s top chefs and sommeliers in the process.
Here, we speak to Business and Operations Manager of Jukes Cordialities, Alycia Nix (pictured above, right), about her time on the programme...
Walpole: What was the best thing about being part of Brands of Tomorrow?
Alycia Nix: The highlight was connecting with businesses of similar size and scale but at different stages in their growth journeys. Having the opportunity to share stories and learnings was invaluable, especially as being immersed in your own business can often feel isolating. The Brands of Tomorrow programme created a supportive network and space that fostered connection, making us feel less alone in our challenges while being part of something larger.
What is a piece of advice you’d give to one of the emerging luxury brands in the incoming Class of ’25?
Take full advantage of the incredible networking opportunities within the broader Walpole community. Don’t hesitate to reach out to previous years’ brands for advice, partnerships, or collaborations—they are a wealth of knowledge and can be valuable allies in your journey.
Find out more at jukescordialities.com
Founded in the autumn of 2020, Katto crafts exceptional kitchenware using sustainable materials and – wherever possible – human hands. The business was started on the premise that people today want to own fewer, but better, things: things that make their days (and dinners) that little bit better. Now Katto is expanding to take over the rest of the kitchen cabinet, having recently launched cast-iron cookware, chopping boards and more.
Here, we speak to Founder of Katto, Josh Roberts (pictured above), about his time on the programme...
Walpole: What was the best thing about being part of Brands of Tomorrow?
Josh Roberts: Undoubtedly the best thing was meeting and sharing my experiences of entrepreneurship with the other founders and brands. Running a small business can oftentimes be quite lonely; but Walpole offers the most fantastic community and soundboard for new ideas, problems and opportunities.
What is a piece of advice you’d give to one of the emerging luxury brands in the incoming Class of ’25?
Make sure that you are taking tonnes of notes from all the sessions and then disseminating them to your team. There is so much wisdom and practical advice across the program and you want to make sure that it reaches the people in your business who are actually doing the work.
Find out more at katto.shop
Larry King is a world-famous hair stylist known for his work with Vogue, GQ, and Vanity Fair. After the success of his first London salon, he launched Larry King Haircare with his wife, Laura, in 2018. Larry King’s salons are all about un-intimidating luxury, which permeates his haircare range, providing consumers with multi-tasking, efficacious and clean formulas that protect the health of your hair, without compromising the earth.
Here, we speak to Managing Director of Larry King, Laura King (pictured above left), about her time on the programme...
Walpole: What was the best thing about being part of Brands of Tomorrow?
Laura King: For us it's been being able to connect and build relationships with our luxury brands and founders. Founders in your same industry can be prickly so it's great to have that door opened to other like minded founders in other industries, that part has been really great. It's great to know that you're all facing similar wins and challenges.
What is a piece of advice you’d give to one of the emerging luxury brands in the incoming Class of ’25?
Attend everything you can and have questions ready ahead of each session so you come prepared to really get the best out of each one!
Find out more at larrykinghair.com
MONC was launched in 2016 with a mission to redefine the eyewear industry by focusing on sustainable practices, craftsmanship and timeless shapes. Designed in London by founder Freddie Elborne and handcrafted in Northern Italy at one of the few remaining family-run eyewear ateliers, the brand merges traditional craftsmanship with sustainable materials and a localised supply chain. MONC’s eyewear is built to last and designed to be easily repaired, challenging the optical industry’s fast-fashion attitude.
Here, we speak to Founder of MONC, Freddie Elborne (pictured above right), about his time on the programme...
Walpole: What was the best thing about being part of Brands of Tomorrow?
Freddie Elborne: The cohort of brands that you become a part of is one of the most incredible communities that you can build as a small brand. During the programme, each session is an opportunity to listen, share and learn with them and, of course, the amazing industry leaders you have access to through the course. This group is the most amazing sounding board and community and I know we will continue to guide each other, even after the program is concluded.
What is a piece of advice you’d give to one of the emerging luxury brands in the incoming Class of ’25?
Make sure to utilise every minute and consider all advice provided by the Walpole team and the speakers to the fullest. As a small business it's rare to be able to receive such advice from industry peers, so harness this and it can provide momentum to areas of your business that you require the most.
Find out more at monclondon.com
Otiumberg is a B Corp-certified jewellery brand established in 2016 by London-based sisters Christie and Rosanna Wollenberg. The brand was envisaged with the MO of crafting a collection that paired a refined aesthetic with an effortless ease to offer modern heirlooms for the everyday. Otiumberg considers the environmental and social impact of the brand – every item is crafted from recycled or single mine origin sterling silver, gold vermeil or solid gold.
Here, we speak to Otiumberg Co-Founder Rosanna Wollenberg about her time on the programme...
Walpole: What was the best thing about being part of Brands of Tomorrow?
Rosanna Wollenberg: Getting to know other businesses at a similar level - sharing challenges and wins.
What is a piece of advice you’d give to one of the emerging luxury brands in the incoming Class of ’25?
You get out of it as much as you put in.
Find out more at otiumberg.com
Launched in 2018, Poodle & Blonde is a luxury British interiors brand founded by Whinnie Williams, Creative Director, and Kierra Campbell, Managing Director. The pair’s original fabric and wallpaper designs take inspiration from the past, reviving and modernising old trends with sustainability in mind. The brand has built an impressive following and secured several notable collaborations, as well as a thriving trade business with clients including Soho House.
Here, we speak to Poodle & Blonde Co-Founder, Kierra Campbell (above, right), about her time on the programme...
Walpole: What was the best thing about being part of Brands of Tomorrow?
Working with the support of Walpole has been an incredible experience on many levels, but the highlight for us was the range of workshops available. These in-depth sessions gave us a safe space to ask questions and gain deeper insight to apply directly to our brand.
As an emerging brand, being appointed a director of Harrods as our mentor was an exciting and rare opportunity – one of the most exciting moments in our journey and we embraced it wholeheartedly.
Since joining Brands of Tomorrow, we have been able to streamline our business operations and refine our vision for the future. However, beyond the professional growth, we’ve also made friendships along the way. It’s been a blessing to feel surrounded by such a supportive group, and their belief in our brand most definitely gave us a much-needed confidence boost.
We are sad to see our time with Brands of Tomorrow come to an end, but look forward to returning as a member in the near future so we can continue to build relationships within this inspiring network of passionate people.
Find out more at poodleandblonde.com
SHORE is a design brand innovating in the fields of ergonomic rugs, soft furnishings, and footwear made from handwoven high-performance materials. Founded in 2015 by Louie Rigano and Gil Muller, who met while studying at the Royal College of Art in London, the brand is based on a belief that merging technical innovation and beautifully crafted design can redefine traditional ideas of luxury, novelty, and ways of making.
Here, we speak to Co-Founder of SHORE, Louie Rigano, about his time on the programme...
Walpole: What was the best thing about being part of Brands of Tomorrow?
Louie Rigano: We really enjoyed the time we spent with the other brands. Being able to discuss challenges and successes with others experiencing many of the same things is so hard to come by—and very enlightening and encouraging. The program is immensely supportive, and deftly covers the vast experience of running a business.
What is a piece of advice you’d give to one of the emerging luxury brands in the incoming Class of ’25?
We'd encourage the incoming brands to definitely take advantage of Walpole's fabulous network! All the people we met through Walpole have been so friendly, helpful, and encouraging—and opened up many doors for us!
Find out more at shore-studios.com
Photography by Colin Dack
