MIKE CLARE
About Mike
Mike is a passionate serial entrepreneur, probably best known as the previous Chairman, Founder and CEO of Dreams Plc. www.dreams.co.uk which he founded in 1987 growing it to over 200 superstores before successfully selling out in March 2008 (timing is everything!)..
Mike is also an investor in many other businesses (as a local ‘Dragon) plus offers short-term business loans through STABLE Ventures Ltd specialising in smaller (or start-up) businesses in the property and retail sectors. He currently runs Clarenco LLP which owns several unusual properties including Solent Forts www.solentforts.com, three Amazing Island Hotels (Napoleonic Sea Forts) just off Portsmouth.
Bijou Living Ltd www.bijouliving.uk is his property company which develops and converts disused commercial properties into Smart Micro Apartments in cities/town centres.
Mike supports many philanthropic organisations including Outward Bound, The Princes Trust, Child Bereavement UK, Heart of Bucks, The Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers and several others.
Mike married Julie in June 2021, he has 4 children (now all grown up) and still lives in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire where he was born and bred. He is heavily involved in the county helping and mentoring local businesses and entrepreneurs and is often heard on the speaker circuit, lecturing and advising students and businessmen alike. Mike is an Ambassador and Deputy-Lieutenant for Buckinghamshire, a Freeman of the City of London, as well as a winner of numerous entrepreneurial awards. In 2009 Mike was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by Bucks New University in recognition of his outstanding achievements in the field of commerce and entrepreneurship.
Mike can be contacted through Clarenco LLP on 01494 682000 or his own website www.mikeclare.co.uk
