About Our Founder

A successful entrepreneur and business leader, Tajinder Banwait MBE, has grown her lifestyle fragrance brand, Urban Apothecary London, into one of the UK’s most dynamic companies. She created her multi-million-pound, award-winning business from her kitchen table at home in Leicester and has delivered it to the world.

Tajinder founded Urban Apothecary in 2012, creating a unique British brand that manufactures and retails luxury fragrance, home, bath and body products. Inspired by her original scent memories, the modern apothecary collection currently serves over 34 international markets. In 2022, Tajinder received a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade; Urban Apothecary is the first candle brand to be recognised in this category.

A tremendous champion for British export, Tajinder has taken her products worldwide and in doing so, has proved to be an influential advocate for international trade. She is a Department for Business and Trade Midlands Export Champion and gives numerous speeches and presentations to enable other British businesses to take their first steps towards trading overseas.

An enthusiastic mentor, Tajinder supports organisations such as the Prince’s Trust and the Santander Breakthrough Women Business Leaders’ Mentoring Programme. She is an inspiring role model for female entrepreneurs, committed to breaking down barriers for women seeking to enter the beauty industry and manufacturing.

On December 29th 2023, our founder was awarded an MBE for services to Business and the Beauty Industry in the New Year Honours List 2024.

“I am honoured to receive an MBE for services to Business and the Beauty Industry. When I think back to Urban Apothecary’s humble beginnings at my kitchen table over ten years ago, I wouldn’t have imagined receiving such recognition for the positive impact of my work.

I consider myself fortunate to be doing what I love, from creating fragrances and hand-pouring candles in my Leicestershire factory to championing export, supporting British manufacturing, promoting female entrepreneurs and leading the way for South Asian businesses to thrive.”

- Tajinder Banwait MBE, Founder, Urban Apothecary London

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