Kitchen table start leads to award success for Willenhall business
Dark Foundry No.8 has gone from making products around a kitchen table to winning a Central England title just over a year later
A home fragrance business which began around a kitchen table has gone on to win a major Central England award.
Dark Foundry No.8, founded by Willenhall couple Viki Smith and Paul Briggs, has been named Central England Home Fragrance Company of the Year 2026/27.
The business began just over a year ago, with Ms Smith and Mr Briggs making and packing their products at home.
It has since moved into its own shop and production space in Willenhall, where the couple continue to manufacture their products.
The pair said they wanted to establish a business rooted in the Black Country and have worked with local organisations and charities since launching.
The company has also attracted attention outside the area, with its products appearing in British Vogue and the business featuring on radio and in local media.
The Central England award recognised Dark Foundry No.8 alongside home fragrance businesses from across the region.
The win comes as the Willenhall business celebrates its first birthday and looks towards its next stage of development.
Plans include expanding its premises to create a dedicated workshop and classroom space in Willenhall.
Ms Smith and Mr Briggs said they were proud to manufacture in the Black Country and to have built an independent family business in the area.
They also paid tribute to the customers and local people who had supported them since the business began.