A CHAT WITH CARDIFF HOTSPOT ‘SO BAR’

9 Jun 2020 | Student Life

If you’re living in Cardiff, you might already be familiar with this trendy, vibrant cocktail and tapas bar. Since opening in 2018, this bar/restaurant owned by Ieuan Edwards, has grown into a hot spot for students and locals alike. In this Q&A we asked Ieuan how they got to where they are today and to share any of his own tips with young entrepreneurs. Here’s what he had to say…

Tell us about your business?

We are a multifunctioning cocktail and tapas bar, event space and more recently since COVID-19, a takeaway deli and off license.

What was the driving force for you to start your business?

My journey started after spending three years living and working abroad in Costa Brava, where I became a RYA Senior Instructor. I learnt many important life skills, including how to manage, organise and lead people. As I never went to University, doing seasons abroad gave me a massive sense of independence and I was albe to learn about other cultures. After my third season in Spain, I decided I wanted to move back to Cardiff and start up my own business. I was greatly inspired by Spanish cuisine and culture, as well as by my parents who run their own businesses.

What are your business’ core values?/What are the key values that motivate you?

Fun – we’re professional but we’re also a young and friendly bunch.We’re always having a laugh among staff and with our customers. It creates a buzz and a smile! People love to be social.
Quality – we pride ourselves on offering the highest quality in all aspects of our business. This ranges from the produce we buy in, the food and drink we serve, to the awesome birthday parties we throw. We also love quirky, unusual and artisan products from other small businesses.
Organisation –the key to any successful business is to be organised in every area.
Local Community –we serve and support a local experience, after all its you guys that keep us going.

How do you overcome setbacks?

Recognise when change is needed. Seek advice from others with relevant knowledge and always keep a positive mindset.

If you had one piece of advice for students setting out their own business, what would it be?

Find your passion and create a business around that. Passion is the most important ingredient to a successful business. It creates excitement, confidence and keeps you wanting more.

Are there any other brands outside your sector that you are following at the moment?

Yeah for sure! A few of my favourites include Capello Barbers, Chapter Studios, Prevú Studio, Mallet London and By Parra.

What has your biggest achievement been so far?

Reinventing ourselves as SO DELI, by creating a click and collect website. We did this to provide a service to our local community. We offer fresh produce, with a massive variety of Spanish and Welsh food and drink for the home. We often find ourselves delivering lunch over to Heath Hospital and providing coffee to the emergency workers who are out on the road. The support we have received has been incredible and we’re glad we could help during the pandemic.

LOCATION

112 Whitchurch Rd, Cardiff CF14 3LY

WEBSITES

www.sodeli.co.uk

www.sobarcardiff.co.uk

SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLE

@sobarcardiff

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