A motorbike enthusiast who started his own business at the height of the recession is reaping the rewards thanks to a university-based business support initiative.
Jason Jenkins, from Ystrad Mynach, started ProMotos Ltd and within its first year has already turned over £400,000.
He was working as an account handler for a car manufacturer, but had become fearful of the threat of job losses and redundancy as a result of the major downturn in the industry.
A keen motorcyclist, Jason had always harboured a desire to run his own business and spotted a gap in the market for motorcycle-based first aid services at cycle races.
He said: “I had pitched the idea to a few sports promoters, who were delighted that I took their requirements seriously, so I was certain the potential for making money was there, but wary of the set-up costs and commitment involved in starting a business from scratch, especially in such uncertain times.”
A friend suggested that he should get in touch with the University of Glamorgan’s Graduate Teleworking initiative (GTi) for help.
Based at Navigation Park in Abercynon, GTi, is the University of Glamorgan’s business start-up support centre which offers a host of services to get new business up and running.
Jason said: “GTi really helped me to take the leap and get the business off the ground. Having a proper business address instead of my home address was vital to build a brand, and most importantly, it meant I didn’t have to take a risk on putting money into premises.
“GTi has also been extremely supportive in helping me learn about business generally.”
Starting out as MediBike, Jason’s business soon had contracts to supply motorbike medical services at cycle races across the UK, and is now the biggest motorcycle escort service in Britain, as well as holding contracts in the USA.
The business has also expanded into medical logistics, with ‘TrustMed’, a secure service moving blood samples, drugs, and medical records for local health authorities.
There is also a third arm to the ProMotos company – MediaMotos, which provides specially adapted motorcycles to carry cameramen and filming equipment for major televised races and events, like the London Marathon.
Jason added: “Without the help I’ve received from GTi, I don’t think the company could have grown in the way it has.”
Pam Voisey, GTi Project Manager, said: “Jason’s development of ProMotos in the last year is a fantastic example of how GTi can help people turn their dream of owning their own business into a reality; despite the difficulties in the economy.”
For more information about the GTi centre, Call 01443 482670 or email gti@glam.ac.uk