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.
