Brazilians hope Brits will go coconut crazy

TWO Brazilian women are bringing a touch of Samba style to Swansea's business community. Alba McConnell and Jamile Souza, originally from Bahia and Rio De Janeiro respectively, have set up BRUK Imports in the city after settling in the area. 

The company has landed the UK distribution rights from Portuguese firm Ekobe for a new environmentally-friendly product made from coconut shells grown in Brazil that can be used for furniture or flooring as well as bathroom and kitchen surfaces. Alba and Jamile were helped to set up their firm earlier this year by staff at Business Centre Swansea on St Mary's Square who advised the pair on developing a business plan and marketing their venture. 

The coconut shell based product they're looking to distribute is said to be durable and highly individual as well as being ecologically sound. It's been available in Portugal, Italy and Russia for some time but, thanks to Alba and Jamile, this is the first time it's been made available in the UK. They ship the material over in tile shapes from Brazil and have regularly been marketing the product at trade shows over the past six months. 

Alba, who lives in West Cross, said: "We wanted to bring something different to the UK and the idea came from so many people noticing and complementing a bag that I have that's made from coconut shells. "And it's a versatile product that can be used for items such as furniture and flooring as well. "We're now looking to spread the word about the product to companies who may be interested in buying it and have been busy attending trade shows across the country." Business Centre Swansea, says Alba, has been a huge help. She said: "Everyone at the Business Centre was very receptive to our idea and the staff there couldn't have been more helpful. "They gave us lots of advice on opportunities for funding and how to market the product and, to this day, they're always available with information and guidance." 

Take a peek at http://www.brukimport.com  or www.businesscentreswansea.com for more information. Business Centre Swansea can also be contacted on 01792 545050.