From Belts to Breadth: My Journey from Mulberry to Sharpham Park

What does it really take to build a global brand — and what happens when the dream comes crashing down?

I recently sat down with Ifty Nasir on the FounderMetrics podcast to reflect on my journey, from a £500 loan and a stall on Portobello Road, to founding one of Britain’s most iconic luxury brands, Mulberry.

In this candid conversation, I open up about the highs — the Queen’s Award for Export, international expansion, and the thrill of seeing our products on the world stage — and the lows, including the moment I was ousted from the very company I poured my heart into. It was a defining moment that challenged everything I thought I knew about business, identity and resilience.

But it didn’t end there.

I share how I found new purpose by returning to my roots in Somerset, transforming Sharpham Park into a hub of organic farming, and pioneering British-grown spelt. Along the way, I launched Kilver Court designer village, navigated the turbulence of Brexit, and continued to champion sustainability, heritage, and reinvention.

This episode is for anyone who’s built something, lost something, or is dreaming of doing both — with purpose.

🎧 Watch below or listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3cMbqLeHsWo5tYhljtTqkI?si=baRUB8GBQr-LDO9RGC0btg

I hope it inspires you, whether you're just starting out or navigating your own crossroads.

Warm wishes,
Roger