Shipmore

Shipmore is a new transport accessories business based in Hemel Hempstead. We develop low-cost solutions for transport businesses that reduce operating costs and deliver carbon-emission savings. We plan to grow by innovating in the market, bringing in new product solutions that enhance our customers’ operations. Our first new product, STAKA launched at MultiModal 2012 – and we plan to introduce more new ideas later in the year.

What brought you to this industry?

A very persuasive Italian lady who was fed up living out of a suitcase while running the UK office of her Italian transport company and wanted someone she could trust to run it for her.

What’s the most exciting thing about your job?

The reaction I get to introducing a new product in to the industry. Transport is not an industry that sees many innovations – so it’s very exciting when you introduce a new product that will change the shape of the industry.

Who inspired you most in your career?

An American lady I worked with years ago who used to say “You should never regret what you do – that can always be undone. You should only regret what you did not do – the chance doesn’t usually come again.”

If you were an item in a warehouse, what would you be?

A tape measure, because all our tape measures end up in some distant place where no one can find them. I’m sure it’s a great place because they all go there.

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do different?

I would not waste time presenting our idea on Dragons’ Den.

What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you at work?

Winning a David Bowie look-a-like competition when working behind the bar in a nightclub when I was 19. I didn’t even enter!!

Who or what makes you laugh?

Micky Flanagan.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I can milk cows – once worked on a kibbutz in the dairy. And I am a qualified scuba diver.

Who would be your favourite party guest?

Ben Elton.

What is the greatest luxury in your life?

Freedom – you don’t have to look very far to see what a precious commodity it is.

What is your favourite guilty pleasure?

Drinking red wine and watching repeats of Sex and the City on TV.

Do you have any secret ambitions?

To write a novel

What’s your dream holiday destination?

Anywhere in England. I hate flying and we have some of the most beautiful and interesting places in the world in this country.

What are your three favourite movies of all time?

Apollo 13, Pelican Brief and Sex and the City (1).

What is your favourite book of all time?

Anything by John Grisham

What’s your favourite pastime?

I should say Zumba – which I do, but it’s hardly a favourite pastime. Being a couch potato is far nicer.

If you won the Lottery, what would you do?

Pay off all my debts, put some in trust for the children, give to charity – then find half a dozen small businesses who are finding it really hard in this climate – and make it a bit easier for them.

What would be your advice to someone thinking about coming into the industry (apart from “don’t do it”)?

Dare to be different.! Try and do something that no-one else is doing. It’s the revolutionaries that change the world to a better place. So – don’t follow the pack, stand out from the crowd.

If you would like TO?take part in this feature call 01923  272960 we have spaces available, to get involved call today!

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