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Storage experts create space for growth with mentoring support

Storage experts create space for growth with mentoring support

Young entrepreneur Alastair Machin is growing his storage and shredding business with the help of guidance from an experienced mentor.

2014 has seen Chaffinch Document expand into a second Stoke-on-Trent warehouse and the launch of a subsidiary business aimed at the student market.

Economics graduate Alastair, boldly set up his own business while still in his early twenties.

Just three years later, Chaffinch has outgrown its Festival Park base and has expanded into a second unit on the North Staffordshire Business Park, in the Chatterley Valley.

2014 has also seen the launch of Chaffinch Student, a business supplying high specification kitchen and bedroom packs to students moving into new accommodation.

The company’s recent growth has been supported by the Let’s Do Mentoring service.

Alastair has been working with John Capper, an experienced mentor with vast experience in the accountancy sector.

“I contacted Let’s Do Mentoring in early 2014,” said Alastair. “I had been successful in growing Chaffinch but I believe that everyone in business has strengths and weaknesses and we should all look for support to assist development.

“I was looking for someone with solid financial management experience at a high level and I already knew John and wanted him on board.

“Let’s Do Mentoring made the process of getting support very easy.”

“John has a wealth of experience and provides a structured approach to business planning.

“Everyone needs a sounding board and John has been a source of great support.”

“I am 27-years-old and while I have drive, enthusiasm and, hopefully, ability, an experienced mentor is a great help.

“I had goals in mind when exploring the option of getting a mentor. These included expanding into a new unit and we have now achieved that.

“We are looking for further growth and to diversify. We don’t want to grow quickly, we want to grow sustainably.”

Mentor John Capper said: “Alastair is a young entrepreneur who is switched on to the things he should be doing to build his business.

“But it is always useful to seek another opinion. I have been able to offer support in areas including funding options for business growth and in the launch of Chaffinch Student.”

Positive outcomes

Business Practice: Funding for growth, goal setting.
Outcomes: Launch of a second storage site and a student supply business. Potential for further jobs and growth.