Nigel steers to success with new business venture

26 Sep 2008

Anderson Vehicle Movements (AVMUK) specialises in the transportation of any vehicle up to 3.5 tonnes, collecting and delivering vehicles to and from all parts of the UK and Ireland.

Nigel Anderson, managing director of AVMUK, began the business in April last year and has already secured contracts with a number of major players in the car dealership and car hire industries including Hertz, Evans Halshaw, Inchcape and VMax.

“At first I found the transition from employee to employer difficult, and as a start-up business money was obviously a big issue,” says Nigel. “The effects of the growing tensions over the credit crunch meant that loan opportunities were scarce, while rising fuel costs were another key factor.

“Taking all this into account then, the enterprise team was an absolute life-line for me because their mentoring, advice and support proved invaluable. Their belief in my ability to make the business work was also a real morale boost at a time when I felt quite isolated and was working alone for the first time. I love being my own boss now though!”

AVMUK currently has two full time and 12 part-time staff - impressive for a business set up just over 12 months ago – and Nigel has further ambitions to extend the services offered by the company in the near future.

“Firstly, I’d like to acquire a larger compound and grow the existing fleet of vehicles, and secondly I’d like to expand the number of office based staff in order to ensure we’re suitably equipped to cope with demand,” adds Nigel. “Another key focus over the course of the next year must also be an investment into staff training, ensuring we provide our customers with the best quality service and customer care possible.”

Rose Bailey, a coach on the enterprise team, provided mentoring and support during the set-up process of AVM. She says: “Nigel is an ambitious character, who is not only hugely experienced in this sector but who also remains enthusiastic about the vehicle transport business. Our role has been to provide him with the business know-how, funding and advice needed to take it forward.”

Cllr Mark Hannon, Cabinet Member for Economic Development on Redcar & Cleveland Council, says “AVMUK is a prime example of how entrepreneurship can be an option for anyone, regardless of their previous experience or personal circumstances. Nigel clearly identified a gap in the market, and so I’ve no doubt the business will continue to thrive and benefit the wider community.”