e-Factor

Vanply Services

Robert first approached e-factor with the idea of using his experience in vehicle conversion to start his own business Vanply Services. Whilst Robert was sure he had the determination to make his business a success, he needed financial support to purchase the necessary materials and machinery.

Having met with an e-factor business adviser and expressed his passion to start his own business, Robert was successful in gaining a placement on the New Entrepreneur Scholarship Scheme. With the support of the e-factor, Robert completed an intensive Business Planning course consisting of in-class workshops and one-to-one sessions with a course tutor. Robert was able to gain essential information and build his business knowledge whilst preparing his business plan and financial projections.

Through hard work and determination, Robert successfully completed the scholarship scheme, proved the viability of his business idea and was able to move on to the e-factor Test Trading programme. Not only did this mean Robert was awarded the financial support but he would be able to trade for the first six months and still be in receipt of his benefit allowance. Whilst Robert was confident in his business, being on e-factor's Test Trading scheme gave him a safety net to test the waters whilst still receiving support, advice and regular progress reviews with his business adviser.

Robert has now completed the Test Trading period and applies kits to protect the inside of vans to stop internal dinting as well as installing internal racking systems,roof racks,security locks, towbars and window blanks to suit the needs of his clients. With the help of the e-factor, Robert was also able to purchase a work van, large industrial saw and plywood templates to work from. With the success of his new business and large customer base, Robert is looking forward to the future and hopes to purchase more machinery and employ more staff to meet the demand of his thriving business.

"E-factor where very helpful to myself and my business and I know they are still only a phone call to help me with any issues I may have in the future". Robert Dobbs - Vanply Services