Lucy & Yak’s Founders Built a Clothing Community, Then Handed It On

Lucy Greenwood and Chris Renwick grew Lucy & Yak into a UK fashion business, then stepped back as it moved toward employee ownership.

Lucy Greenwood and Chris Renwick began Lucy & Yak after selling vintage clothing while travelling. A small trading project grew into a British clothing brand known for colourful dungarees and a community-oriented identity.

The business worked to make supply-chain choices visible to customers, including responsible sourcing, garment repair and resale through its Re:Yak programme. Those efforts need ongoing coordination with suppliers and customers.

In 2025, the founders stepped away from director roles as Lucy & Yak moved toward employee ownership. Building a company is one challenge; deciding how it should be governed after founders leave day-to-day leadership is another.

Lucy & Yak offers a case study in long-term stewardship: founders can shape a brand, develop systems and then make room for employees to influence what comes next.