Our Story
About Blue Badge Co
How It All Started
Ellen's Story
Born in 1984 in Hebden Bridge, Ellen Green didn't find school easy. Struggling with undiagnosed dyslexia, she was determined not to let it define her. She pushed through, earned a first-class degree in Arts and Cultural Management from Dartington College of Arts, and went on to become business manager for Power Amp Music, a glamorous, well-paid job in the music industry, financing musicians.
But in 2011, at just 26 years old, Ellen was made redundant. Suddenly uncertain about her future, she found herself looking for a way to stay busy.
A Simple Idea Takes Shape
Ellen's friend had just received her first blue badge disabled parking permit and needed a better way to display it, something practical but stylish. But all she could find were wallets with wheelchair logos on them! Together, they began hand-stitching display wallets. What started as a way to fill Ellen's days became something bigger: a realisation that people with disabilities deserved products that worked well and looked beautiful too.
The Journey
From hand-stitched wallets to international exhibitions, awards, and resilience through challenges. Here's how Blue Badge Co. grew.
From Bedroom to Business
What began as hand-stitched wallets in a Bristol bedroom officially became Blue Badge Co. Ellen took their first collection to market. A large selection of stylish, practical Blue Badge holders that proved accessibility didn't have to mean compromising on design.
The response was immediate, and customers loved them. As each wallet brought a little bit of joy!
All In
Ellen bought out her business partner to become the sole director and shareholder. This was a commitment to her vision of what Blue Badge Co. could become.
Recognition & National Spotlight
Ellen was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year at the Bristol and Bath Women in Business Awards, recognising her innovative approach to serving the disability community.
Ellen also received the Breakthrough Award by Insider South West 42 under 42, and appeared on BBC Two's Dragon's Den and BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour, bringing Blue Badge Co.'s mission to a national audience.
Scaling Up
Blue Badge Co. moved to a much bigger workspace as the team grew to 20 employees. The expansion reflected the company's commitment to meeting growing demand while maintaining quality and personal touch.
Going International
Blue Badge Co. exhibited at Rehacare in Germany, marking the company's first international sales and expanding its mission beyond UK borders.
TV Shopping Success
Ellen presented Blue Badge Co. products on QVC TV shopping channel. The products were so well-received that they continue to be featured on QVC today, reaching even more customers who value both function and style.
Rising to the Challenge
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Blue Badge Co. pivoted to produce face masks, demonstrating the company's agility and commitment to supporting the community during a global crisis.
Direct to Customer
Blue Badge Co. was featured on the front cover of Business Insider magazine, discussing the shift to direct-to-customer sales and the future of accessible, stylish products.
Facing increased costs and reduced margins in wholesale, Blue Badge Co. made the strategic decision to stop selling through wholesale channels and focus exclusively on the website and direct sales, allowing for stronger customer relationships and better control over the brand experience.
Resilience & Bold New Strategy
Blue Badge Co. faced significant challenges and restructured the company, narrowly avoiding collapse. Ellen made the bold decision to outsource manufacturing to trusted teams in the North of England and Wales, ensuring quality while building a more sustainable business model.
Sustainable Future
Blue Badge Co. launched a full rebrand alongside more eco-friendly options, including products made from recycled bottles manufactured in a factory using 100% renewable energy.
This marks a new chapter, proving that accessible, stylish products can also be environmentally responsible.
Designed for Mobility, Made for Life
From a bedroom in Bristol to customers around the world, Blue Badge Co. has stayed true to its founding vision: that everyone deserves products that support their independence with dignity and style.
We understand the everyday challenges our customers face, and we design with empathy, innovation, and flair. Every item we offer is made to be both useful and expressive, proving that accessibility and style should always go hand in hand.
Locally made, ethically sourced, and thoughtfully designed, our products help people get out and about — not just with ease, but with pride.