A GROUP of entrepreneurial Polish women are leading a quiet but powerful transformation of Evesham.
So says the Phil Maclean, the new head of Evesham Place Board who believes their ‘entrepreneurial spirit’ is breathing new life into the town centre
From beauty, coffee and wine bars, to artisan bakeries and boutique fashion retailing, these women are proving that small businesses driven by passion and purpose can spark big change.
From left to right Renata Gala (who works as a stylist at Shine Like a Star), Anna Wielgat, Lucy Król, Klaudia Zajaczkowska, Joanna Sergan, Natalia and Ula Kuc. Photo Phil Maclean
To celebrate their achievements and amplify their impact, Evesham Place Board will host a visit from the Polish Embassy at the end of September.
“What unites them is more than their Polish heritage or female leadership – it’s a shared mission rooted in creativity, courage, and connection,” said Phil, who took up the role of chair in July.
He said the visit has been organised to honour the businesswomen and help inspire others to follow their example.
Anna Wielgatt, owner of Reid’s, a ladieswear shop on High Street. s
“We came here to build a better life, and now we’re helping to build a better town. It’s not just about business, it’s about community, culture, and showing what’s possible when women support each other,” said Anna Wielgatt, owner of Reid’s, a ladieswear shop on High Street.
The other businesses are Shine Like a Star hair and beauty, Nostalgia coffee and wine bar, Jo Savelle lingerie and Sour Power Bakery.
Phil added: “We are deeply grateful to these incredible women for the energy, creativity, and investment they’ve brought to Evesham.
“Their businesses are not only enriching our town culturally, they’re also driving footfall, boosting local spending, and creating jobs. This is exactly the kind of grassroots regeneration that makes a lasting difference.”
Sour Power Bakery’s Natalia Kuc. s
The Embassy visit will include tours of the businesses, conversations with the entrepreneurs, and discussions on how their success can inspire inclusive growth and regeneration across the town.
