Sahar Hashemi

Sahar Hashemi, a successful entrepreneur and author, co-founded Coffee Republic and Skinny Candy, and now shares her insights on innovation and entrepreneurial spirit with global audiences. After co-founding Coffee Republic with her brother, Bobby Hashemi, in 1995, Sahar Hashemi revolutionized the UK’s high street coffee scene, establishing the nation’s first US-style coffee bar chain. Opening its inaugural outlet on South Molton Street, Coffee Republic rapidly expanded to 108 stores and achieved an annual turnover of £30 million by 2001. Under her leadership, the company was listed on AIM in 1998 and transitioned to a full listing in 2000, before Hashemi departed from management in 2001.

Hashemi successfully divested 50% of Skinny Candy to Glisten Plc in 2007. Her significant contributions to the UK economy and to charity were formally recognized in 2012 when she was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s birthday honours list. Sahar Hashemi remains a pivotal voice in the business community, actively contributing to policy and mentorship. She co-chaired the UK government’s Scale Up Taskforce, influencing growth strategies for emerging enterprises.

She further champions social enterprise through her involvement with Change Please Coffee, an innovative organization that trains and employs homeless individuals as skilled baristas, providing both employment and housing. Hashemi continues to inspire global audiences with her insights on innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, drawing from her extensive experience in building and scaling successful ventures.