Fast Facts

• Brixham based leisure suppliers formed in 2010
• Started with diving equipment now moving into equestrian and other areas
• Phenomenal growth over the last 12 months
• Awarded £15,000 through Plymouth University and Western Morning News Growth Fund - PWGF (part of the GAIN network)
• Investment into new warehouse with retail outlet, IT and other equipment to improve efficiency and growth prospects

Background

Goldstar Leisure was initially created by Tony Rowe and Carolyn Caunter selling specialist diving equipment online. Carolyn then introduced a popular equestrian range and after taking a small industrial unit went full time into the business.

Over the last 12 months Goldstar Leisure has grown by almost 500 per cent with little investment and is an official stockist for some major brands. The company now needs to develop further to reach different leisure markets at different times of the year.

GAIN – the benefits

Goldstar Leisure found out about the PWGF fund from its local Federation of Small Business group. The fund presented an opportunity to provide set up costs for extra facilities and resources in order to generate sales.

“There were some basic but essential additions we needed in order to develop the business”, said Tony. “Including a computerised system to help track sales and reorder stock easily, a fully functioning e-commerce website plus a pallet-truck and extra shelving.”

The PWGF award made it easier for Goldstar to expand into a bigger space and subsidise extra staff to deal with the new stock ranges and increased sales and footfall.

“Goldstar is now in a position to develop and market its own range of products. We are currently working on a new equestrian yard/muck boot under our own brand, which will soon be available”, said Tony.

Results and the future

• Improved processes leading to greater efficiency
• Offering a larger range of products for new markets
• Creation of new jobs
• Further development of its brand and own product range

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