Last week, locals to Evesham found a post on their Facebook feeds by Evesham Place Board, a group created with the help of Wychavon District Council to bring together local businesses and community groups. From this post on Facebook, it is clear that something truly special is happening in Evesham right now.

Diversity in action on Evesham’s High Street

A group of incredible Polish women are breathing new life into the town centre—turning once-empty spaces into thriving hubs of creativity, community, and culture. Their shops, cafés, and boutiques are more than just businesses; they are places where people gather, connect, and rediscover the joy of a vibrant high street.

What makes this revival so inspiring is not only the variety of enterprises that have sprung up, but also the passion, resilience, and courage that fuel them. Each of these women has brought with her a unique blend of skill, vision, and determination, transforming personal dreams into opportunities for the wider community. Together, they remind us of the extraordinary value that diversity brings to our towns: fresh ideas, different traditions, and new perspectives that enrich everyday life and help to shape a more inclusive and dynamic future for Evesham.

“As a foreigner in this country myself (though Danish, not Polish), I can’t help but feel part of this story too ∙ It shows how shared experiences of building a life in a new place connect us across borders and backgrounds ∙ I love seeing how international communities bring new life, ideas, and energy to this country ∙ These women are such an inspiring example of how passion and purpose can create not just successful businesses, but also stronger, more vibrant communities ∙ We can all learn from your example of social responsibility—showing that true entrepreneurship is about giving back, creating opportunities, and lifting others as you grow”, Mette, Cotswolds Concierge.

Photo credit: Evesham Place Board

Sour Power Bakery: A Legacy of Sourdough and Soul

Founded by mother-daughter team Natalia Kuc and her daughter, Sour Power Bakery has grown from a kitchen passion project into a thriving artisan bakery on Bridge Street. Known for handcrafted sourdough and wholesome sandwiches, it’s a place where hospitality meets heritage. Natalia, who left her career in care to pursue her dream, describes the bakery as “something honest, nourishing, and full of heart.”

Nostalgia: Coffee and Wine with Style

Nostalgia, created by Lucy Krol and Klaudia Zajaczkowska, offers a new kind of social space for Evesham. By day, it serves as a stylish café for coffee enthusiasts and cake lovers; by night, it evolves into a sophisticated wine lounge complete with charcuterie and European delicacies. Nostalgia is already redefining the town’s café culture and nightlife.

Jo’ Savelle Lingerie

Hidden in a chic basement setting, Jo’ Savelle Lingerie offers one of the most distinctive shopping experiences in town. Its boutique feel and exclusive atmosphere have quickly captured the imagination of visitors, making it a must-visit destination.

Reid’s Boutique: Fashion with Flair

On High Street, Reid’s Boutique provides a curated mix of vintage and contemporary fashion. Owned by a Polish entrepreneur with a sharp eye for style, the boutique invites customers to explore fashion that is expressive, individual, and rooted in personal stories.

Shine Like a Star

An established hair and beauty salon, Shine Like a Star continues to thrive as a trusted destination for treatments and self-care, adding to the rich tapestry of Evesham’s independent business scene.

Redefining entrepreneurship

These women are not only running successful businesses; they are redefining what entrepreneurship looks like in Evesham. They show that success can also mean building stronger communities, supporting local life, and lifting others as you grow.

Their work is proof that towns become richer, more vibrant, and more resilient when we embrace diversity and celebrate what each culture brings to the table.

It’s impossible not to feel proud of what they’ve achieved so far—and excited about what’s still to come.