Meet Georgina Colman, Founder of Inclusive Discount Programme: Purpl

Tell us about Purpl

 

Purpl is the UK’s first discount programme designed specifically for disabled individuals. Since we launched in 2024, our aim has been to alleviate the additional living costs associated with disabilities. We collaborate with various brands, including Hoover, Menkind, Poundland, The Fragrance Shop, Marks Electrical, Rotary Watches, and Pavers, to offer discounts to our members.

Beyond being a discount platform, Purpl unites the disabled community by providing advice and supporting disabled charities. 

 

 

How did you come up with the idea for the company? 

 

One day, while out shopping, I realised that whilst my son got a student discount there was nothing for disabled people. I have multiple sclerosis (MS) and ADHD so I know first-hand that living with a disability is expensive. Costs can quickly add up and it can be difficult to make finances stretch. It seemed unfair that the disabled community had been forgotten and I knew I had to do something about it and create a business to help my community save money.

When thinking about branding, I was inspired by the term ‘purple pound’, which refers to the spending power of disabled households. Since then, everything has fallen into place. We developed Purpl’s bespoke verification tool in six months and I used my professional network to get the company’s first partner once we launched in July 2024. Since then, we’ve been fortunate enough to bring together a fantastic team and establish partnerships with over 250 brands.

 

 

What is your advice to aspiring entrepreneurs?

 

I’d stress the importance of self-awareness – knowing your strengths and weaknesses. Bring the right people in to fill the gaps as you can’t do everything and it’s better to let someone with the right skills and experience guide you. Simon Sinek’s book ‘Start with Why’ really resonated with me and is always at the back of my mind. Understanding your ‘why’ is important for keeping your focus and vision alive. I am a perfectionist and recently my husband told me: ‘There’s no point polishing a golden goose, the last 10% isn’t worth the effort.’ I try to remember this even though it’s really hard for me. 

Also, it’s important to understand that not everything will go according to plan but don’t let that dishearten you. When things go wrong, it can feel like the end of the world but in time you start to realise that it is part of the rollercoaster of creating something.

 

What most excites you about Purpl

 

Making a real difference to the disabled community. For me, Purpl is more than just discounts, it is about bringing the community together to share advice, provide relevant information and give back. I see Purpl as a part of a bigger journey to launch a foundation so I can give grants to people within my community who need more financial support. Running a foundation and being able to make a tangible difference in people’s lives is what drives me every day to make Purpl a success. We are also dedicated to helping disabled charities and are already working with Spinal Injuries Association. 

 

How has the company evolved over the last couple of years?

 

Purpl is still a young company, our website only went live in July 2024 so it hasn’t had the time to evolve per se. Last year was very surreal for me, taking an idea I had in a shop, and seeing it come to life has been amazing. We are already helping thousands of disabled people save money every day. I am very proud of how we’ve started and I’m excited to see it evolve in the coming years.

 

What can we hope to see from Purpl in the future?

 

We have lots of exciting plans for growing the business but the key thing will be launching the foundation to help disabled people access equipment, therapies and other services that may not be accessible but could improve their quality of life.