This is the latest in a regular series of Business Q&A features published weekly. This week, we heard from Fiona Martin MBE, owner of Best Kept Secret on Cheltenham Parade in Harrogate.

Tell us in fewer than 30 words what your firm does.

Best Kept Secret sells a range of stylish and affordable ladies' clothing from small brands across Europe and beyond. We've got something for every size, age and pocket.

I set the business up 10 years ago and spent eight years in Kirkby Overblow, and have been in Harrogate for the last two years.

What does it take to be successful in business?

You have to work hard constantly, through the good times and the bad times, and ride every crest of the wave.

What drives you to do what you do every day?

I have great customers, and it's a nice feeling when you deliver something and see the customer satisfaction. Happy customers definitely motivate me.

What’s been the toughest issue your business has had to deal with over the last 12 months?

The change in retail and overheads, and the fears that people have about the economy. Those are the things that make it tough when you're in retail.

But also the price of goods, especially since we get a lot from mainland Europe and have to pay duty. And there are so many other things you wouldn't think of, such as the cost of playing music in the shop, or of the fire extinguishers.

Which other local firms do you most admire and why?

Ake & Humphris is a good one, because I like how they've expanded their offer, so you can stay in and try the wine. They've developed the social aspect of what they do, so instead of just nipping in for a bottle, you can share one with a friend.

Who are the most inspiring local leaders?

Rachel Woolford of North Studio [the fitness studio on Cold Bath Road]. I like her motivational style, and the teamwork with her staff. They give really great personalised customer care.

What could be done locally to boost business?

Drop the parking meters and go back to disc parking, or at least offer certain times when parking is free.

The parking arrangements we have now absolutely cripple retail, and the constant roadworks in Harrogate are baffling and put people off coming in.

Best and worst things about running a business from Harrogate?

The best thing is that it's a beautiful, historic town that receives lots of lovely visitors.

The worst thing is the parking. Now that parking in the multi-storey car-parks is time-restricted, there are no good options left. People have to get back to their car before their ticket runs out, which stops them lingering in town. It's the most ridiculous backward thinking.

What are your business plans for the future?

I want to do more fashion shows and ladies' evenings. These are where groups of ladies can come in and have the shop to themselves, enjoy a glass of fizz, try a new look or a new style with the support of their friends, and get 10% off whatever they buy. 

It's a chance to have a girly catch-up and shop. I used to do them in Kirkby Overblow all the time, and they were really popular.

They're also good as PTA fundraisers, where the clothes aren't discounted, but 10% of all sales on the evening go to a designated charity.

What do you like to do in your time off?

I've just done a pilates class, and I love to keep fit. I like walking too – I did the Camino [de Santiago – the pilgrimage route across northern Spain] last year.

I also do a lot of fundraising for my charity, Friends of Alfie Martin – that takes up a lot of my spare time. That's why I'm not very good at keeping up with Netflix series!

Best places to eat and drink locally?

I like North Bar on Cheltenham Parade. It has a really relaxed vibe, I love the outdoor seating area, and you can get pizza from Pizza Social next door.

I like Elysian Bar, also on Cheltenham Parade. It does amazing cocktails and has a nice, age-appropriate vibe.

There's a great community spirit on Cheltenham Parade, which is why I've created a dedicated Facebook page to support local independents – because I know how hard they all work!