Paul Simpson

Coniston Couriers is a story of one man and his van; offering fast, friendly and professional delivery and collection services in the Redcar and Cleveland area. With a little help from his beloved wife, Paul Simpson is beginning to build a business that anyone can rely and benefit from.

This is Paul Simpson’s story…

1. Why did you want to start your own business?

   I had a vision that I knew I could fulfil, providing a service people could rely on. Having my own business was always something that I wanted to do.

2. What was the deciding factor for you?

   I had an idea that I wanted to start up a delivery service and I analysed whether it was feasible to do. I then applied for some funding through the enterprise team and that helped me to set up the business.

3. How did you get the business off the ground?

   I used a number of ways to promote my business and generate interest. I distributed leaflets, advertised, created a website and just generally spread the word. Some of the enterprise team funding went towards the promotional material, which helped me a lot.

4. Best bits about working for yourself?

   I love being in charge of my own destiny; knowing that I source the jobs and do the work that is a great luxury. I can work the hours that I want to work.

5. What have been the biggest challenges so far?

   Finding the work and giving a professional service at a competitive price. There are other collection and delivery services around the area but I know that I can provide a better service at a competitive price; it’s just getting people to know my business which is why I try hard to promote.

6. What would you have done differently if you could go back?

   I would not have joined a web-based service, which is apparently the No.1 trade website for the courier and express freight industry. The membership fee is quite expensive and they source work that is not practical for the business, such as travelling down to London for £50. I get the impression that they’re not interested once they have your membership fee.

7. How does it feel to be your own boss?

   The independence feels great, though I wish I had done it years ago. It’s taken me a while to pluck up the courage and start my business and now that I have it’s been a great experience. I just hope the business brings better opportunities for me.

8. A piece of advice for those thinking about starting up?

   Speak to the Enterprise Team because they’ve been fantastic. There have been times when I have struggled and my adviser has picked me up and pointed me in the right direction. The business would not be where it is today if it wasn’t for them, so I need to say a big thank you..

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