A father-of-three who had been out of work for 18 months has successfully launched a vacuum repairs and sales business thanks to support from Bradford Council.
Simon Owen, from Fagley, is now so busy he is hoping to take on a second member of staff to work at Vacs4Spares.
The 48-year-old operates from the GRID enterprise centre in Low Moor, Bradford, having received support from Bradford Council's Kickstart service which helps people become self-employed. He was assisted by enterprise coaches Mike Whitehouse and Shelley Tasker. The GRID in Low Moor is run by Incommunities.
Having previously repaired vacuum cleaners for an electrical contractor and worked as a supermarket night manager, he decided to become self-employed after struggling to find a new job after 18 months.
Simon said: "As a supermarket manager you've got 100 people to look after but that is totally different to running your own business because you face everything yourself head on.
"That's why Kickstart was so useful – it gave me the support and knowledge I was missing. The enterprise coaches helped me find suitable and affordable premises, supported me with marketing and finding investment.
"Everything has built from there but the coaches stay in touch to check on my progress and I know they are always available as a sounding board.”
Simon is now the only approved service agent for Bissell in Bradford or Leeds and an approved dealer for Numatic International, makers of the Henry vacuums.
He added: "Business keeps growing so I will definitely look to take on either an apprentice or a full-time member of staff after Christmas.”
Coun David Green, Bradford Council's Executive Member for Regeneration and Economy, said: "Simon is a great example of how Kickstart can provide the building blocks for people who want to go into business on their own.
"His success creates a virtuous circle because he is now looking to take on another member of staff as his business grows which provides a further fillip for the local economy.”
In the past five years, Bradford Council's enterprise programme has supported more than 1,500 new businesses and helped to create more than 5,000 jobs. It is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund.
Anyone who wants further information about how Kickstart can call 0800 953 9503 or email info@bradfordkickstart.com.
