Two South East Essex based businesses have been announced as finalists in a major competition and have the chance to win £25,000 worth of business support.

Chocolate Buddha, a yoga and fitness clothing brand based in Leigh, and Sundried, an active wear company based in Shoebury, have both made it to the final of The One competition.

The One competition helps new and young businesses grow by offering financial support, advice and service to help the winner take their company to the next level.

Chocolate Buddha Ltd was founded in 2015 by Lyn Long and Kerry Doyland and is the world’s first all-British yoga and fitness clothing brand.

Both founders have experienced the life-changing benefits of yoga as they have recovered from serious health problems resulting in feeling healthier and more inspired now than they did as younger women.

Chocolate Buddha Ltd ath-leisurewear is a result of this renewed energy and zest for life. Uniquely, the clothing has been designed, woven, dyed, printed and made in Britain.

Lyn said: “Our clients are ‘girls’ like ourselves (50+) and, while our clothing is styled to suit many body shapes and sizes, it was originally designed for those of us who no longer wanted to expose quite so much of ourselves during and after class.”

Kerry added: “Winning The One Competition would mean that the company could make a bigger splash in this new and quickly expanding world market.”

Daniel Puddick founded Sundried in 2016, which creates premium active wear, inspired by the beauty of the outdoors and leading triathletes. Sundried uses exceptional ethical credentials and low carbon development to produce its active wear. Sundried also partners and supports several charities.

Members of the design team at Sundried have worked with some of the world’s leading active wear brands, and this experience has helped them extensively in the construction, meticulous design and ergonomic features behind Sundried. The active wear is also inspired and tested by athletes to enable excellent performance when exercising.

Daniel said: “I am so pleased and proud that The One Competition has recognised Sundried as a finalist. Winning the competition would free up time for our staff so we can focus on building our brand and the product. Currently most of the services offered to the winner we tackle in-house, so it will enable us to free up some time to focus on growing the business.”

Judging of the seven finalists of The One competition will take place on Monday 20 February at Layer Marney Tower. For more information about The One Competition please visit, http://www.onecompetition.co.uk/