Community news
Plant Lovers London: nurturing growth in Custom House
Plant Lovers London is a flower and houseplant business guided by a passion for plants and a dedication to enhancing the local community’s wellbeing. Founder, Nuzhat Khatun, describes her motivation for setting up the business and how it has grown from a home-based operation to opening its second shop, based in Custom House in the Royal Docks.
Nuzhat founded Plant Lovers London in 2020 and began her journey selling plants on Marketplace and eBay, initially catering to local residents and subsequently to exhibitors at ExCeL London. Having experienced some health issues, she discovered that nurturing plants significantly boosted her mental health and wellbeing, while working from home enabled her to look after her two young children.
Motivated by a belief in the healing power of plants, Nuzhat’s female-led enterprise has blossomed, opening its first shop in Bow in 2023, which quickly became popular with the local community.
Boosted by this success and with support from Newham Council’s Business & Enterprise team, Nuzhat secured a unit on Freemasons Road as part of the council’s wider regeneration programme in Custom House, which will see significant development around the station, including new homes, improved public amenities, and new community facilities. The Freemasons Road neighbourhood is at the centre of this ambitious estate regeneration project, which includes supporting local entrepreneurs with access to affordable council-owned commercial space.
Recognising the opportunity to contribute to the neighbourhood’s rejuvenation and to be part of the wider Royal Docks regeneration story, Nuzhat opened her second shop here in May 2024.
At the heart of her business expansion is the community. Nuzhat emphasises the importance of local support and the joy of sharing her passion with others. The new location features a variety of houseplants and flowers, expert advice, and a café which offers a peaceful retreat amidst the lush foliage, inviting the local community to share in the experience that has supported her own personal health and happiness.
"Plants and flowers have always been my passion," explained Nuzhat, "and I wanted a place where locals could share that passion with me."
The expansion has also opened doors to job opportunities within the local community. "I’m especially proud to have employed several part-time staff members who bring a wealth of enthusiasm and knowledge to our customers," said Nuzhat.
Visit Plant Lovers London for houseplants, flowers, coffee, cake and samosas!
Opening hours: Mon-Fri from 10:00-19:00 and on Sat & Sun from 10:00-16:00
Contact:
Plant Lovers London: 29 Freemasons Road, Custom House E16 3AR
Tel: 07428 060447
@plantloverslondon
For more information:
