Scaling a business comes with its own set of challenges, it requires clarity, confidence, and a brand that truly supports ambitious growth. For Abbie Allis, founder of ERA, a specialist brand consultancy that works with impact driven and ambitious firms, this journey has been both challenging and rewarding. Through the support of Scaleup North East, she has been able to build a thriving business that helps scaling companies elevate their brand perception.

A vision for growth and positive impact

"My goal is to help more scaling businesses achieve their full potential. I want to work with more tech businesses, especially those in sustainable tech, or businesses that genuinely are making a positive impact on the world and people’s lives," says Abbie. After co-owning a brand agency from 2014 to 2021, she took a step back to go freelance due to personal circumstances. However, she quickly realised that she wanted to get back into brand strategy in a bigger way.

In May 2024, Abbie reconnected with Craig Huntington, Scaleup Partner at RTC North, to discuss the next steps for her business. Within weeks, she was given the opportunity to showcase her new consultancy at an RTC North event. "I didn’t have a name, a brand. I didn’t have anything. But I knew I had to get something together. So, with a few intense weeks of planning, ERA was born."

Leveraging networks for growth

Networking has played a crucial role in Abbie’s entrepreneurial journey. "At that event, I reconnected with people from my former agency, which led to work almost immediately," she recalls. She also leveraged LinkedIn to announce ERA’s launch, which generated further inquiries and client interest. "Your network is everything. My first international client came through a referral from someone I worked with years ago."

Her experience highlights a key lesson for any business owner, tapping into your network can provide opportunities you might not even be aware of. Whether it’s securing clients, partnerships, or collaborations, building and maintaining professional relationships is essential.

The power of saying No

One of the biggest lessons Abbie has learned is the importance of having a clear focus. "At my former agency, we tried to be everything to everyone. Now, I focus strictly on brand strategy for growth, and brand design, and I collaborate with freelancers for everything else."

She emphasises that saying no to the wrong clients is just as important as saying yes to the right ones. "If you say yes to something that doesn’t align with your vision, you’re saying no to an opportunity that could be a better fit. Staying focused has been key to ERA’s success."

Operating in a digital world

ERA may be based in the UK, but its clients are global. "We live in a digital world where you can operate from anywhere," says Abbie. "Working with an agency in Dubai was no different from working with one in Newcastle." This global mindset has allowed her to attract high-growth businesses from various industries, including a recent tech client in Italy focused on helping vineyards combat climate change.

Stepping out of the comfort zone

Growing a business means stepping outside of your comfort zone. Through Scaleup North East, Abbie has been pushed to take on new challenges, including delivering a workshop to 18 businesses helping them to power up their brands. "I was pretty nervous, but once I did it, I realised how much I enjoyed it."

Craig has also been instrumental in providing referrals and directly connecting Abbie with businesses that need her expertise. "He’s been a great support, not just in confidence-building but in actively helping me get in front of the right people."

The value of Scaleup North East

For businesses looking to grow, Abbie strongly recommends getting involved with Scaleup North East. "It has provided me with opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise. The support, the connections, and the push to step up have been invaluable."

ERA is now firmly positioned as a go-to brand consultancy for businesses on the cusp of scaling. By staying focused, leveraging her network, and embracing global opportunities, Abbie has built a business that not only supports growth driven companies but is also set to grow alongside them.

If your business is ready to scale, take inspiration from Abbie’s journey and consider engaging with RTC North. The right support can make all the difference.

To learn more about ERA and how Abbie can help your business, visit ERA’s website.