Story is the best way to show people your journey, whilst detailing your why…

Our story started 20 years ago when we opened a retail store selling printer cartridge refills. Yes even 20 years ago we were promoting sustainability and being environmentally friendly.

Loads has happened since then:

✔  We opened a network of cartridge refilling stores across East Lancashire

❌ Our retail business declined due to online and supermarket competition

❌ The master franchisor would not change the UK business model

❌ We nearly lost our house

❌ The mounting pressure caused a life changing illness

✔ We sought help – and employed a business coach

✔ Our plan was to fix unscrupulous supplier practises in the office technology industry

✔ Launched print & scan solutions on 30-day rolling agreements with a fixed price guarantee

✔ We use ‘fit for purpose’ refurbished equipment and install it for free. No upfront cost.

✔ Developed supply chains for over 30,000 office supply and stationery products

✔ Negotiated a financial settlement with the master franchisor to leave

✔ Closed all the retail stores and relocated to a simple operations centre

✔ Built an initiative-taking customer service driven team

✔ Completed our transformation into an ethical office technology and supplies company

✔ Looked to get involved with sustainable and environmentally aware industries

❌ Spotted a problem how EV chargers are installed – no specialist companies

✔ Created a specialist EV charger installation business with directly employed installers

✔ Building an initiative-taking customer service driven team

The story is set to continue….

Yes, it’s been a hell of a ride, full of peaks and troughs – the latest being Covid – as has been the case for countless organisations. It’s been a tough couple of years but having a great team helps.

The first lockdown gave us time to reflect on the journey so far and created a burning desire to write about our story – so hopefully – others can learn and be inspired to overcome obstacles.

It’s only part of the journey, and we have another two books lodged in the back of the brain. The first a pre-sequel (How Not to Run a Franchise) and the other the sequel (The Journeys Been Electric).

The first book, written as a fable (making it more fun to read) but based on true events and characters. It’s published on Amazon as a paperback or to listen on audible.

But money is not the driving factor, it’s so others can hopefully learn from our journey.

…so, you can download it for free here.