Leeds Beckett grad made £200,000 from business he started in his uni dorm

A former Leeds Beckett University student has made £200,000 from a business he started in his university dorm.

Scott Whitehead, 27, studied business at Leeds Beckett before turning his bedroom venture into a fashion brand.

After graduating, the former Beckett student worked in marketing for a drinks firm in Sunderland. However, in October 2023, he returned to entrepreneurship full-time by founding The Hideaway Store, Business Live reports.

Scott’s entrepreneurial journey began at 14, when he resold second-hand t-shirts with his twin brother, Billy.

Scott’s brand specialises in premium, pre-loved clothing, rare trainers and collectable art.

He said: “Buying pre-loved clothing and trainers is where my passion lies. And I enjoy getting up in the morning knowing I work for myself and doing what I’ve always loved.”

Scott graduating from Leeds Beckett University via Instagram

Through its online platform, his business has already amassed a turnover of around £200,000.

He sources items from the UK and abroad, carefully curating stock for a growing customer base.

The Leeds graduate credits his time in the city as a major part of his business journey, as he built and managed much of his early stock whilst studying there.

Scott stresses the hard work behind the brand: “I have to authenticate every item I buy and so much research goes into its origins, pricing and building a rapport with a client.”

The Hideaway Store is no longer only online, as its first physical pop-up at Bottleworks in Ouseburn, Newcastle, took place last week.

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The Hideaway Store pop-up shop via Instagram

Speaking about the lead-up to the event, Scott said: “I’m excited to finally showcase to the world what I have in person; it’s all about creating that immersive experience.”

The in-person store featured rare clothing, sneakers and art, with labels including Moncler, Nike, Supreme, Bape, and Stone Island. Artworks from names like Kaws and Futura were also available.

Whilst the core of the business is fashion, Scott also sells rare art and high-end collectables. He recently acquired Damien Hirst plates from the 1997 Pharmacy Restaurant in London.

Scott added: “These plates are a serious collectors’ item and I’m looking forward to selling them, hopefully to an auction house like Sothebys or Phillips.”

Featured image via Instagram