Episode Details

There’s a lot more to Chapman than just making very good bags, as we discovered when we first met Cedric at Badminton Horse Trials in the early May of this year.

What began as simply admiring the quality and craftsmanship of the products on their stand, grew into an inspiring conversation around building a business that cares deeply about their values, materials, quality and customer experience. Not only was it a new brand that we wanted to introduce to our Countrywoman’s Guide community, but also a story we had knew we wanted to explore further and share with you.

So join us on today’s podcast as we talk to Cedric Stonex, owner of Chapman Bags.

Chapman began in 1984, and Cedric has worked his way through almost every part of the business before becoming its owner in 2019. Today, the business continues to grow, but the principles behind it remain firmly in place.

Cedric takes us through his journey in the business, the uncertainties he’s faced along the way, and shares why and how Chapman’s strong brand values inform each business decision he makes.

We also talk about the less visible but equally crucial sides of running a business, from the responsibility that comes with employing people, to having the patience to build something with true longevity and the making of decisions when the safer option isn’t necessarily the right one. It’s a listen that we know will resonate with so many of you, and offer you reassurance as you navigate your own business’s.

You can listen to the full conversation now, wherever you get your podcasts.

If would like to keep with Chapman, you can find their website here, and their Instagram here.

Photography Credits: Team Chapman & Barney Curran

Join our growing Community of people who value building a business that fits your life, rather than a life that fits in round your business.