Founded by Christine Lawson and Roger Walker in 2002, Eduk8 Worldwide was created specifically to develop a range of all-inclusive educational toys, which would spark imagination and learning through play.

Christine and Roger have worked as both designer and supplier to the education market in the UK and abroad for more than 17 years.

Earlier this year, the company joined the Scaleup North East programme after thoroughly enjoying a business survival webinar hosted by RTC North, which introduced delegates to the rapid growth scheme.

Since May, Christine has been working alongside dedicated Scaleup partner Angelina Bell, who initially conducted a business diagnostic and helped the business to compile an action plan for the next few years.

Taking a step back from the day-to-day running of the business, this plan allowed the team to identify current business needs and address future ambitions.

Recalling the support from Scaleup North East, Christine said: “I would absolutely recommend Scaleup North East to other businesses.

“Joining the programme provides access to a team of highly-experienced business professionals.

“No matter what type of business you have, we basically all operate in a similar manner.”

In light of this year’s crisis, the team had to prioritise re-inventing the business and as such, determined that they must invest time and resources into creating a stronger online presence.

Christine identified that the website, online selling and social media platforms all required a thorough review and subsequent overhaul.

Eduk8 had always wanted to grow its international customer base, and after attending the Get Ready to Scale boot camp, Christine was able to focus on her personal strengths and weaknesses.

In three half-day sessions, Christine left with actionable insights and was able to reflect on her own expertise in the pursuit of future business development.

Recent successes for Eduk8 include securing a £350,000 contract to distribute its range of products within the Middle East market.

This break into the international retail sector came from programme director Sarah Pavlou and the team couldn’t be happier.

Christine attributes this introduction entirely to the support of the Scaleup team and believes none of this would have been possible without their existing professional connections.

In addition to boosting their profile and professional network, the team at Eduk8 are currently developing their online selling platforms in order to stimulate sales and growth.

Future plans for the business include working alongside the Enterprise Europe Network programme, which will help to continue to build the brand’s profile in the international market with access to overseas contacts, while boosting their profile and professional network.

A further result of joining the Scaleup programme has been the appointment of an online sales specialist through a business referral. With an exciting future ahead for the brand and having managed to adapt and overcome the current challenges, Christine encourages businesses to gain access to one-to-one support and the benefit of multiple Scaleup Partners expertise.