'My low moments pushed me forward'

Not On The High Street co-founder Holly Tucker on overcoming adversity, building an empire and helping small businesses shine

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After almost two decades in business, entrepreneur Holly Tucker - whose nickname is 'Hurricane Holly', such is her rush to “do the next thing” — has become a real powerhouse in the retail industry, carrying the torch for others to follow in her footsteps.

Yet despite her reputation as the queen of small businesses, the 48-year-old - who co-founded multimillion-pound online retailer Not On The High Street, and later built the company Holly & Co - says running an empire is not for the faint-hearted.

“After 20 years, I've realised that if you're looking for an easy life that's not full of roller coasters, do not start your own business!” she tells OK! in an exclusive chat.

“You have to realise that this isn’t a steady ship you're joining; you’re joining a train going 4,000 miles an hour, with screws flying off each way!”

She adds, smiling, “You don’t know what the next day will bring, but that’s also the joy, isn’t it? It’s anything from running out of cash, to hiring the wrong people, or trying to balance being a mum and running a business at the same time. Sometimes it can feel like we’re stacked up against it.”

Holly has faced all of the above challenges, and admits, when it comes to family matters, it can definitely be tough to get the balance right. As a mum to 20-year-old son Harry, whom she shares with husband Frank, the businesswoman says she was keen to ensure the family unit came with her on the journey.

“My son was three months old when we started Notonthehighstreet, and it’s very difficult for women to raise a family and raise a business at the same time. But I am very proud now - in hindsight and with my son turning 21 - that we did live a life less ordinary.