Sahar Hashemi

CEO & Co-Founder of Coffee Republic, Founder of Skinny Candy, Co-Chair of Scale Up Taskforce & Author

Sahar Hashemi is a renowned entrepreneur in the food industry, best known for co-founding Coffee Republic and creating Skinny Candy. Her remarkable contributions to the UK economy and charitable work have earned her an OBE. Sahar is a highly sought-after speaker, regularly booked by prominent companies like L’Oreal, Goldman Sachs, and Sky. She is valued for her insights into innovation, entrepreneurial spirit, and her ability to discuss themes such as embracing change, persistence, resilience, and customer-centric thinking.

Before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Sahar trained as a solicitor with Frere Cholmeley Solicitors. After several years in law, she teamed up with her brother Bobby to establish Coffee Republic in 1995, the UK's pioneering US-style coffee bar, opening their first outlet on South Molton Street. By 2001, they had expanded to over 100 outlets, boasting an annual turnover of £30 million. Coffee Republic became a well-known name on the UK high street. After stepping down from management in 2001, Sahar shared her experiences in her book "Anyone Can Do It," detailing the founding and growth of the coffee chain.

Following her success with Coffee Republic, Sahar launched Skinny Candy in 2005, an innovative low-fat sweets and chocolate brand that quickly found its way into prestigious retailers like Harvey Nichols and Selfridges. The business flourished, and in 2007, she sold Skinny Candy to Glisten Plc. Post-sale, Sahar authored "Start Up Forever" and took on the role of Co-Chair of the Scale Up Taskforce. Her achievements have been widely recognized, with Management Today naming her one of the Top 35 Women in British Business Under 35 and The Independent on Sunday listing her among the 20 Most Powerful Women in Britain. Additionally, she has been featured on the Maserati 100 list and recognized as one of the 100 Most Successful Philanthropists, Investors, Mentors, and Advisers.

Sahar’s speaking engagements are highly esteemed. She has inspired audiences at companies like Goldman Sachs, L’Oreal, GSK, and Best Western Hotels, praised for her inspirational, approachable, and passionate demeanour. Named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, Sahar is an influential thought leader. Her expertise in entrepreneurial leadership, resilience, embracing change, and customer service makes her an exceptional keynote speaker, particularly suited for International Women’s Day events where her story can motivate and empower audiences.

---

---