Today Purves Ali, a specialist in retail, engineering, manufacturing and product development, talks about his role in supporting Lancashire businesses.
I have always had an interest in business from a young age, developing a business plan for my first business and winning an award from Shell live wire was the key and inspiration for me to help other companies to develop and grow.
I initially volunteered my time working in schools re Enterprise projects with Hyndburn Enterprise Trust, later employed as a business adviser working with startup companies in the East Lancashire area.
My biggest influence was my father. He opened the first supermarket in Accrington aimed at the Asian community in the early 60s. He went on to open a number of shops included one in Manchester.
I was one of five brothers and we all helped in the businesses growing up.
Lancashire has a great heritage, excellent schools and colleges and several high-profile universities. It is also a popular tourist destination offering fantastic countryside and coastal resorts.
Business support is easily accessible across all areas of the county and often it is fully funded. Lancashire is also home to the large established businesses including BAE Systems, Wham and Senator. With excellent access to the M6 motorway north and south, commercial property is always available for growing businesses.
I always start my day with an early morning prayer, I then check my emails to make my “to do” list for the rest of the day. Fully prepared for a busy day I then set off to meet with my Boost clients.
Rising costs are a challenge for all businesses in the current economic climate. There is also a lack of funding and grant support available for businesses, compared to previous times. Cashflow is the lifeline of a business and often without healthy cashflow a business may not be able to apply for the funding they need.
1. Market research – this is really important when starting a business as it helps you identify opportunities and threats to your business.
2. Write a business plan – this helps you get a better picture of the business as a whole, allowing you to set priorities, manage change and set future goals.
3. Access free business support – contact Boost and speak to an adviser. We are here to help you with your business ideas.
About the author
Purves is an experienced and accredited business adviser with over 20 years’ experience delivering enterprise projects. He can offer expert advice and support to both startups and existing businesses as well as on available funding and grants.
Purves has extensive experience as a business development consultant helping businesses at all stages of growth with planning, project management, marketing and team development.
If you’re looking to grow, scale or start your business, use Boost; Lancashire’s Business Growth Hub. We offer a range of funded business support services. Call our Business Support Helpdesk on 0800 488 0057 to find out more or complete our enquiry form.
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