A MERRY Hill based firm has received a business boost from retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis.

Sarah Wilkinson, owner of Soley Customs, commented on Instagram to Theo about her business during ‘Small Business Sunday’ and was one of six weekly winners to gain a retweet or repost by Theo to his over half a million Twitter and Instagram followers.

And the former Dragon’s Den star re‐tweeted Soley Customs message to his 500,000-plus Twitter and Instagram followers, providing a huge boost to the company which customises footwear - which has also been profiled on the #SBS website theopaphitissbs.com.

Halesowen News: Soley Customs at Merry HillSoley Customs at Merry Hill (Image: Soley Customs)

Sarah said “she couldn’t be happier” to have been picked as one the winners in the initiative, set up by Theo in 2010, which now has more than 3,500 #SBS winners and supports small businesses in the UK.

She said: “After opening our store in Merry Hill shopping centre earlier this year and now being chosen to join Theo’s amazing program. I couldn’t be more proud with how my small business is growing and I look forward to welcoming even more people to store to customise, restore and clean your sneakers.”

Halesowen News: A customised pair of Elvis Presley trainersA customised pair of Elvis Presley trainers (Image: Soley Customs)

Theo, chairman of Ryman Stationery, Robert Dyas and Boux Avenue, said: “We are thrilled to welcome new #SBS members every week and highlight just how important it is to support our small businesses here in the UK. My vision is that everyone who has ever won an #SBS re-tweet from me becomes part of a friendly club; like-minded individuals who can share successes and learnings. The website will also give a valuable profile to the winners chosen and I wish Soley Customs every success.”

Anyone looking for a re‐tweet from Theo should tweet on Twitter or do an Instagram post to him about their business on Sunday between 5pm and 7.30pm and include the hashtag #SBS.

Six lucky businesses are re‐tweeted every Monday at 8pm and then invited to enter their profile on the new website, attend the annual #SBS networking event and take advantage of networking opportunities.