A POPULAR homegrown business has announced it is to close after surviving the difficult challenges of Covid lockdowns.

Native 21 was founded by artist and designer Nicole Beswick, who created her own pop culture greetings cards based on the latest memes and big news stories.

Despite the pressures of the coronavirus pandemic, the 26-year-old managed to grow the business, progressing from her dining room table in 2017 to her garden shed, and then a unit at Howley Quay Industrial Estate in February last year.

But Nicole has now decided to design her last card as she looks to the future, thanking her loyal customers in the process.

Posting on social media, the former Penketh High School pupil said: “We are closing for real. Nope, this is not an extremely belated April fool. It is officially the end of an era for Native 21.

Nicole Beswick, founder of Native 21, with her custom greetings cards

Nicole Beswick, founder of Native 21, with her custom greetings cards

“It is bittersweet. I have had some amazing experiences running this business and cannot thank Elle enough for sticking by and just being the most incredible, hardworking and loyal friend any small business owner could ask for.

“Of course, our customers and stockists too, who have come back time and time again and showed their support for so many years.

“But as many business owners will know, it can be bloody rough sometimes.

“Unfortunately, I knew something was broken for a long time, and you have to work out the thing that needs fixing – for me this was the thing.

“Nothing is worth chucking your mental health in the bin for – even a business that did not do too badly for itself.”

Nicole Beswick, founder of Native 21, with her custom greetings cards

Nicole Beswick, founder of Native 21, with her custom greetings cards

While Nicole says she is not 100 per cent sure what is to come in the future, she is launching a ‘massive sale’ on the business’ website while stock lasts.

To see more of Nicole’s cards, visit native21.com or search for Native21 on Facebook.

Speaking to the Warrington Guardian last year, Nicole said she was shocked at how well the business was going.

“When I was packing cards on my living room floor, I never expected that I would have my own unit, and it is nice to have the extra room,” the former Priestley College student said.

“No way did I think I would progress this far, so it is a great feeling.”