In today’s connected world, entrepreneurial paths often span borders. For Alice and Andrew  Hall, owners of Rowen Group and Pink Boutique, this evolution led from their base in the North  East of England to a new chapter in Dubai. In a recent conversation with The Family Business  Community’s Sue Howorth and Dave Clarkson, they shared what motivated the move, the practicalities of expanding internationally, and the early lessons they’ve learned navigating new markets.  

Steady Growth and Practical Innovation  

Alice started Pink Boutique in 2012, building a strong online presence in women’s fashion.  Andrew joined early on, and together they later launched Rowen, a homeware brand focused on mid-market luxury. What began as a UK-based enterprise with a strong regional identity has grown to include e-commerce and physical retail, including a Metro Centre store.  

“Our goal has always been to make stylish interiors more accessible,” Andrew explains. “Rowen  was a natural step from our experience in fashion, but it came with its own learning curve.”  

Exploring a New Market  

Their decision to establish a presence in Dubai was not sudden. Having visited the region regularly, they noticed a gap in the interiors and fashion sectors. The market’s demand for home furnishings is shaped by a large rental population, many of whom furnish from scratch. The fashion scene, while serviced by global chains, often lacks variety in occasionwear. These trends presented a potential opportunity.  

“It’s a different landscape here,” says Alice. “There’s demand, but also expectations that are unique to the region. We didn’t approach it thinking it would be easy or that it would replace our  UK base. It’s a complement – another chapter in our journey.”  

Logistics and Leadership from Afar  

The move has had operational advantages. Their supplier network, largely based in Asia, is now geographically closer. That’s helped streamline parts of their process, but it hasn’t replaced the value of their UK presence.  

They continue to lead a team of nearly 100 people, many of whom now benefit from a more flexible work model. “Hybrid working was something we resisted at first,” Andrew admits, “but  it’s helped us widen our recruitment pool and support the team better.”

The time zone difference has also added a helpful structure. Mornings in the UAE offer quiet time for planning, while afternoons allow for meetings and collaboration. 

Navigating the Move 

Moving internationally with a family involves more than logistics. The Halls were deliberate in their planning – securing schooling, housing, and navigating visa processes step by step. 

“It takes time to get familiar with how things work locally,” Alice shares. “There’s a lot of admin,  but you work through it. We spoke to others who had done it and that was hugely helpful.” 

Dubai’s expat community has made settling in easier. From casual connections at the school gates to more structured networking events, the city offers a welcoming environment for newcomers. 

“Dubai has a strong growth mindset, and that shows in how people approach connections.  We’ve found that the community here is incredibly open, with a real willingness to collaborate and share knowledge. One introduction often leads to another – people are generous with their time and keen to help you meet others who can support or advise,” says Andrew. 

Advice for Other Business Families 

If others are considering a move to Dubai – or any new region – Alice and Andrew offer a few  pieces of advice: 

1. Take your time – Visit more than once. Get to know the area. Don’t rush big decisions.

2. Ask questions and use direct resources – Much of the information you need is accessible without expensive intermediaries. 

3. Plan the timeline carefully – Especially around schooling, housing, and visas. Having a structure helps reduce stress. 

Alice adds, “We treated the first few months like a test period. It’s easy to romanticise a move,  but it’s also about patience, planning and seeing how it works in reality.” 

Looking Ahead 

The UK remains at the core of their operations, but the expansion to Dubai has added fresh energy and a new perspective. It’s a strategic extension that builds on their foundation in the UK  and supports their broader ambitions. 

“Every market brings its own challenges,” Andrew reflects. “Dubai has given us some new tools,  new contacts, and a new way of thinking about our business. That’s been the real value.”

Their story is less about a lifestyle shift and more about thoughtful growth – evolving a business while staying true to its origins. For Alice and Andrew, the move has brought practical benefits and new possibilities, all while remaining grounded in the ethos they built in the UK.

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