Case Study: Keyishoes
Client
Simon Richardson - Partner, Keyishoes
Programme
Cumbria Accelerator: Business Support Programme
Business Advisor
Gail Gravett
Cumbria Accelerator provided support to help turn ideas into action.
From working solo to building a growing business
Simon Richardson is a Partner at Keyishoes, a business with ambitions to grow beyond its existing way of operating. While Simon had clear ideas about expansion, he was largely working on his own and lacked a trusted sounding board to help him test ideas, reach decisions, and move forward with confidence.
He wanted to expand the business but found it difficult to take decisive action without experienced advice and reassurance.
Feeling stuck without support
Working alone left Simon feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, and indecisive. With no one to challenge or validate his thinking, making major business decisions, particularly around expansion, felt risky and isolating.
Although the ambition to grow was there, Simon needed support to help turn ideas into action.
Turning ideas into confident decisions
Simon worked closely with business advisor Gail Gravett, whose calm, friendly, and business-focused approach provided exactly the support he needed. Gail acted as a trusted listener and sounding board, helping Simon to explore ideas, think through options, and consider opportunities he may not have otherwise explored.
Support included brainstorming expansion ideas, assistance in identifying suitable fixed premises, and practical suggestions that helped Simon move forward with confidence.
A major step forward for the business
As a result of the support, Keyishoes successfully moved into fixed premises and expanded the team, employing two new members of staff. Since the move, the business has seen a significant shift towards regular commercial customers, leading to consistent year-on-year growth in turnover.
With a stronger team in place, Simon now has the time and capacity to spend several days each month on the road developing new commercial opportunities, while the business continues to run smoothly day to day.
The value of a trusted sounding board
“The most valuable part was being able to sound off ideas and receive honest feedback. Securing a fixed premises was a real highlight and a turning point for the business.”
Confidence, reassurance, and support
With the key challenges addressed, Simon now feels reassured and supported, knowing he is not on his own and has someone he can rely on for advice and guidance. This confidence continues to support ongoing growth and decision-making at Keyishoes.
Support when decisions matter most
Having the right advice at the right time can make all the difference when growing a business. With practical guidance, a trusted sounding board, and support through key decisions, business owners can move forward with confidence. Securing a fixed premises was a real highlight and a turning point for the business.
Take your business further
Whether you’re shaping a new idea or developing an existing one, Cumbria Accelerator helps local businesses turn potential into progress.
Contact us today via the contact form on our website for expert advice, one-to-one support and practical tools to help your business grow.