Case studies - business support
Company: Kitestudio
Owner: Carl Robertshaw
Website: www.kitestudio.com
Producing custom-made kites and accessories for the kite industry, Carl produces products of high quality that are inspired by his experience as a world-class kite flyer. Half the business is making kites for the kite world and the other half involves designing and fabricating structures for architects, designers, and events and promotional companies.
Carl was introduced to GLE oneLondon when he was looking for help in January 2003. Carl had reached a point where he was not sure whether he should continue with his dream or give it all up. “Making kites encompasses everything I enjoyed - design, colour, structures, flying, making things, I couldn’t see myself doing anything else, but I needed to make sure I was going into it with my eyes wide open.”
Having been referred to GLE oneLondon, Carl discussed the various options and current problems facing the business with his business adviser, Liam Hickey. “We were able to run through all the scenarios and options that I had been considering to help me decide on whether running my own business was really what I wanted to do.”
Carl and Liam continue to have regular meetings and are now working towards Carl’s expansion goals, ensuring these are practical and affordable. “In the future I hope to expand my team so I can concentrate more on design and production. I already have a regular machinist and am looking for someone to concentrate on sales and the administration side of things.”
“It is invaluable to be able to talk through your ideas with a professional business adviser when thinking about starting up a business. I would also recommend you attend a basic business course, this will give you more confidence than you think. It’s also important to understand the line of business you are going into. If that line of business already exists - make sure you do it better than the competition. If you are starting a new type of business that doesn't already exist, stick with it. Support from friends and family will get you through the rough times. I would also place a huge emphasis on business cards. They are amazingly useful; I've had people call me because I gave them a business card years ago!”
Kitestudio have since gone from strength to strength. For the stage musical version of "The Lord of the Rings", Kitestudio have built Balrog – the monster that Gandalf kills to become the White Wizard, and are also producing another exciting large set piece for the show!
For more information visit www.kitestudio.com
For more information on GLE oneLondon business advice and business courses in Lambeth and Southwark click here