Entrepreneur Turns £20,000 Loan into £71 Million Makeup Empire

An entrepreneur has transformed a £20,000 loan from her grandmother into a thriving makeup business worth £71 million. At just 32 years old, Paige Louise’s journey from a council estate in Droylsden, Greater Manchester, to owning a successful global brand exemplifies the power of determination and creativity in the beauty industry.

Leaving school without qualifications, Louise initially pursued a career in social work but dropped out of college. She later worked at a MAC beauty counter, where her passion for makeup flourished. In pursuit of independence, she decided to become a freelance makeup artist. With a distinctive style, she quickly built a loyal clientele, prompting her to think bigger.

Seeking to expand her business, Louise turned to her grandmother, a part-time cleaner, and borrowed £20,000 to open her own salon in Prestwich. In 2014, she launched the P.Louise Makeup Academy, offering affordable makeup courses. Despite financial struggles, including the need to sell her car to stay afloat, her determination paid off as the academy gained a solid reputation.

Expansion and Innovation in the Makeup Industry

As the beauty landscape evolved, Louise adapted by introducing online courses at a time when live streaming was still emerging. This strategic move significantly expanded her reach and audience. By 2018, her brand took a monumental leap forward when her eyeshadow base, known as Rumour Base, was acclaimed as the top product in the market by the renowned beauty influencer NikkieTutorials on YouTube. This endorsement marked a pivotal moment in her business trajectory.

In August 2024, Louise achieved another remarkable milestone, breaking the UK record for the highest revenue generated on TikTok Shop by a UK brand. She earned over £1.5 million in just 12 hours, showcasing the immense popularity of her products. Following this success, her operations expanded from an 8,000 square foot warehouse in Middleton to a 36,000 square foot facility in Stockport, reflecting the rapid growth of her business.

Louise’s P.Louise brand generated an impressive £71 million in the last financial year, with projections estimating revenue to reach £138 million this year.

A New Chapter: Retail Expansion

Looking ahead, Paige Louise is set to open her first retail store in the Trafford Palazzo at the Trafford Centre in October 2024. This development signals a new chapter for her brand and an opportunity to connect directly with customers.

“I hope that anyone that steps into my world realizes that anything is possible,” Louise stated in an interview with the BBC. “Your background doesn’t define who you are.” Her story resonates with many, proving that with hard work and vision, remarkable success is achievable.