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For almost 25 years, the initials SCP (Sheridan Coakley Products) have served as an anonymous cloak for a man who has done so much to champion the cause of British furniture design. SCP is the name of Sheridan's two vibrant stores, in London EC2 and W2, which not only offer a fascinating showcase for modern furniture, furnishings and accessories but also host exhibitions and events along the way. In the beginning, Sheridan honed his eye selling vintage Modernist pieces, before opening his shop in 1985. Almost immediately, he spotted the furniture of Philippe Starck at the Cafe Costes in Paris and was the first to introduce his designs to the UK. Unusually for an independent retailer, Sheridan put his own range into production and distribution, beginning with modern tubular steel furniture. Soon, there followed the work of young British designers for whom an appearance at SCP played a pivotal role in their early careers. Among the nascent stars he nurtured were Matthew Hilton, Jasper Morrison and Terence Woodgate, whose SCP productions have won many awards, as well as becoming best-sellers. In 1986, Sheridan was among a handful of pioneering British design entrepreneurs to show at the Milan Furniture Fair, taking with him Hilton and Morrison's first-ever manufactured pieces. Still showing them in his stores today, he also promotes the work of newer designers on the scene such as Donna Wilson, Russell Pinch, Sarah Kay and Andrea Stemmer.

Unstintingly generous with his time, he also sits on many judging panels and consultancy groups, such as the recently established Design Guild Mark for furniture. This has often been with minimal personal gain but always with the effect of championing young British designers who have gone on to become world superstars.