Page last updated on 18th August 2025
Wendy Thompson, owner of family-run prom dress shop Ffansi Ffrogs in Ruthin, Wales
Our Small Business Focus feature puts the spotlight on local business owners who talk about how they use their smart meters, how they manage their energy costs and other helpful tips. In this edition, Wendy Thompson talks about her experience owning Ffansi Ffrogs, a prom dress shop in Ruthin, Wales.
Wendy shares her story
The business was set up by Wendy Thompson in 2023, growing out of a need to find the perfect prom dress after having to travel to Liverpool to shop for her daughter Robyn’s Year 11 prom. What could have been a simple shopping trip turned into the inspiration for creating a dedicated prom boutique that would serve the Welsh community. Wendy and her daughter Robyn expanded their business with a second boutique that opened early 2025.
How do you manage your energy costs?
I use a business bank account and consistently put some money aside in virtual pots, so I always make sure I have an energy pot.
For us, the biggest expense is our heating which means our peak costs run from October through to March. I try to budget even through the Summer months to cover the busier ones. It’s important to turn saving into a habit so you don’t get
caught short!
How does your smart meter help your business?
I don’t have to think about submitting meter readings, it happens automatically, and I no longer get estimated bills. Anything I can integrate or use that takes a task off my shoulders is a huge help.
The information I get from my smart meter helps me to keep track of my energy use and costs, so I don’t get surprised with a massive bill I wasn’t expecting.
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What have been your biggest business challenges and how have you overcome them?
The biggest challenge we faced was starting from nothing. I have a business background and had launched previous ventures, but I had no background in the industry, no social media following, no existing customer base. It was tricky to build these things from scratch, especially in a post-COVID world which was very different to manage.
I drew on my previous experience, but it took time and a lot of investment. Working with my daughter Robyn was a great help. Her energy, input, and understanding of social media and the target audience have been invaluable.
What is the best piece of advice you'd like to share with your fellow small business owners?
You’ll learn as you go along, and you need to be patient and recognise the importance of long- term investment. When you’re starting out, you need to keep a tight hold on the purse strings.
But, to grow your business you need to take on staff and pay their wages to take jobs off your own hands. It’s hard to balance financial decisions in the short term, with what’s needed for long term growth. It’s also important to have balance and ensure you live your own life outside
of work.
What is the best - and hardest - part of being a small business owner?
Being your own boss and knowing you’re in control. You can build the business in your vision and make your own decisions. Working with my daughter Robyn, has also been an incredible experience. She’s fantastic and the business wouldn’t be where it is without her.
It’s challenging working for yourself; you can never really switch off and, given our family is all so invested in the business, it quite often ends up being the topic of conversation at the dinner table. But we know that running a business isn’t a 9-5!
How can you request a smart meter for your small business?
Simply enter your energy supplier in the box below and we’ll connect you. If your business works with a Third Party Intermediary (TPI) or broker, please contact them directly to request your smart meter.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does installation take?
Installations normally take about two hours and are arranged in advance so that you can make any necessary arrangements beforehand to ensure minimal disruption to your normal business operations.
Can I get a smart meter if my small business is in a rented premises?
Yes. If you pay the energy bills you can make the decision about whether to get a smart meter. If your landlord pays your energy bills, speak with them about getting a smart meter for your building.
You may need to check with your landlord that any changes to your meter are allowed within your rental contract.