A young Ednam entrepreneur has praised the Prince’s Trust and Business Gateway for their assistance in helping him establish his own company.
Sean Robson set up SR Mobile Tyre Fitting six weeks ago, having worked in the industry for almost seven years, starting when he was just 16.
Sean said: “I used to be a tyre fitter, but I wanted to start up on my own, so I left to distance myself from it for a while before setting up my own business.” After a short time away, Sean sought advice from Youth Business Scotland (part of the Prince’s Trust) and Business Gateway.
“I always wanted to be my own boss and get out there and try new things, and I knew there was a market for this.
“You can get your shopping delivered to your house, or your car sprayed at home, so why not get your tyres fitted at home or at your work,” he added.
“I heard about the Prince’s Trust from various people, so I contacted Tara Bolland (regional manager) and she asked me to go in and discuss my ideas, and then they wanted me to go before a panel to see if I was able to get funding.”
He added: “Scott McLean has been a great help, he’s my advisor and he knows exactly what I’m about. Everything he has said I have taken on board.
“I also got help from Business Gateway, going on a book-keeping course through them.
“It is great to have that help available and I would recommend anyone looking to set up on their own to get in touch with them,” Sean said.
As well as working on cars, he is aiming to service the tyre needs of the local farming community. “Farmers need their machinery going 24/7, so they need someone available to go and do the work any time.”
Sean has also invested in a mobile card payment terminal, to make things even easier for customers.
Mr McLean, who was on the panel which agreed a loan for Sean before becoming his volunteer advisor, said: “Sean made a great case and it is clear he knows what hard work is needed, and we were very pleased to support him.”