Emily Vermont, the founder of IndiRock, has been recognised by Small Business Britain’s “f:Entrepreneur #IAlso100” campaign.
Ms Vermont, who set up the indoor climbing wall and coffee shop in the Victoria Shopping Centre in 2019, was celebrated for her multi-layered community impact and non-profit business model.
She is now among 100 inspirational female entrepreneurs from across the country as the women are being honoured for their multi-achievements.
This includes running businesses, volunteering, mentoring, and community support.
Ms Vermont said: “It is a real honour to be picked out as one of the top female founders this year, appearing alongside so many other wonderful women.
Recognised – Emily Vermont, the founder of Indirock (Image: IndiRock)
“Southend benefits from many inspirational female founders, as Indirock started highlighting last year.
“We are happy to have been joined by so many more in the new Bridge units inside Victoria Shopping Centre – together, we are changing the face of Southend city centre.”
The “f:Entrepreneur #IAlso100” line-up recognises female founders who lead purpose-driven businesses alongside other responsibilities.
The campaign, launched in 2017 by Small Business Britain, seeks to raise awareness of the impact of female business owners across the country.
It aims to provide inspiration and role models to the wider small business community.
Michelle Ovens, founder of Small Business Britain, added: “It’s wonderful to have Emily Vermont feature in this year’s #IAlso100 – all of the female entrepreneurs in this year’s line-up are simply phenomenal.
“It is vital that we recognise the impressive contribution of the UK’s female business owners and do all we can to support and encourage them throughout their entrepreneurial journey, from start-up to scale-up.
“As well as making a huge economic contribution to the UK, female entrepreneurs also create a wider positive impact that ripples across society and local communities too.”
Indirock, the vibrant indoor climbing wall and coffee shop, has been a significant addition to Southend’s high street.
It has been part of the wider transformation of the Victoria Shopping Centre, after it was purchased by Southend Council.
For the full line-up of the 100 women featured in this year’s campaign, visit f-entrepreneur.com/ialso-100-2025.