case studies
Each month we present a case study of businesses that have benefited from the support, advice and guidance of Ten Sixty Six Enterprise:
The Company: Natural Flow
The Problem: Three years ago, David Ball and Trisha Walmsley dreamed of opening a shop to sell their fair trade instruments and clothing.
The Solution: But a meeting with Sean Dennis from 1066 Enterprise opened their minds to bigger and better things, leading to the launch of www.naturalflowdirect.com on the world wide web where the company is now distributing their range of Djembe drums, percussion instruments, and clothing throughout the world.
David and Trish’s relationship with 1066 Enterprise started with a free three-day ‘Business Start Up’ workshop. It was here where they learned the importance of having a proper business plan, and, as David puts it, the benefit of proper ‘fiscal planning’. They found their accountant. And the business began to prosper.
Outcome: Today, the company are currently trading with a large ‘shop’ on eBay, their own site and through the fair trade portal www.getethical.com. They also visit musical festivals and outdoor events, and travel throughout Asia and Africa sourcing new products directly from the producers. The fundamental principle of the company is to source from fair trade partners whenever possible, is a member of BAFTS, the British Association of Fair Trade Shops and is an ESCC Trading Standards ‘Buy with Confidence’ Approved Trader. This year, turnover has increased by over 40% and now David and Trish’s only concern is keeping up with demand.
Summary: David maintains constant contact with 1066 Enterprise and appreciates Sean being available for help and support and likes the benefits of having a “sounding board” close at hand. He plans to stay with 1066 Enterprise “as long as they will have us”.
For Natural Flow, the future looks good, but David and Trish aren’t intending on taking it easy. “Operating through the web isn’t necessarily the easy option. You have to market just as hard as if you are on the high street.” he said. “As part of their help, 1066 Enterprise led us to first class advice regarding the website and search engine optimisation. All in all, it has been an invaluable service".
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