JEWELLERY maker Zoe Hobson has been chosen as one of only 18 small businesses from across the country for a free stand at a national show.

Zoe, who lives in Chudleigh, will showcase her work at the Spring Fair 2027, Europe’s leading retail experience, after impressing judges in a nationwide competition run in partnership with retail entrepreneur and Dragon’s Den star Theo Paphitis’ Small Business Sunday.

Zoe’s business SOZO Silver creates meaningful jewellery and gifts by repurposing vintage silverware into personalised keepsakes for special occasions.

She was chosen from hundreds of applicants to exhibit within the dedicated #SBS Village at Spring Fair, taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 7–10 February 2027.

She said: ‘To have SOZO SILVER recognised in this way is something I am immensely proud of.

‘What started with a hammer, a set of letter stamps and a few forgotten pieces of cutlery has grown into a business that has taken me to markets and festivals all over the UK, connected me with incredible customers, and now, somehow… to Spring Fair.

‘Ten years ago, while living in New Zealand, I started stamping old cutlery in the hostel I was managing simply because I needed a creative outlet.

‘I had no business plan. No idea that one day those little stamps would become SOZO SILVER. I just knew I needed to make something with my hands.’

The prize gives Zoe the opportunity to showcase her products to thousands of retail buyers from independent retailers, department stores, garden centres and major high street brands, helping accelerate its wholesale growth and open doors to new stockists.

Fay Tranter, Event Director at Spring Fair, said: ‘Every year we’re inspired by the incredible creativity, passion and entrepreneurial spirit within the #SBS community, but this year's entries raised the bar once again.

‘The quality of applications was outstanding, making the judging process incredibly difficult. SOZO Silver is a fantastic example of the innovation and originality that independent businesses bring to the retail industry.’