A firm operating in the aviation sector could be flying to improved trade thanks to a Chamber networking event held last week.
Brian Sneyd’s 247GT organisation had a stand at the ‘Chamber to Chamber’ function, organised by the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with its’ East Lancashire counterparts.
The 247GT company manufactures goods for the airport industry, supplying the likes of ground support equipment and aircraft under-wing parts.
Their mission is to deliver value for money to their clients with their range of products also including: aircraft wheel chocks; airport ramp and baggage handling equipment; aircraft de-icing equipment; and ground crew communications systems.
“I thought it was a good opportunity to display our wares and, since then, a couple of people have contacted me in terms of getting to know about us,” said Brian, the firm’s CEO (pictured, left, with North & Western Lancashire Chamber President, Norman Tenray).
“Business is quite good at the moment; this week we’ve had a terrific number of enquiries and we’ve done some sales which is a good start to the month – about £3,000 worth!
“As an example, in December 2013 we didn’t do £3,000 in the month so business has changed dramatically.
“We’re still trying to find more cash as we sometimes have to buy things in bulk and it takes time for us to recover the money we lay out but, having said that, we’re certainly beginning to get more frequent orders.”
Brian began 247GT in September 2013 after a working career which had gravitated towards working with the aviation industry.
Based at Hesketh Bank, Preston, the company’s impact saw it win an International Trade last year, claiming the best newcomer award.
“It was a bit quiet at first but, gradually, you get a bit more recognition for what you do and the service you provide,” he said.
“Now, we’re trying to export and we’re doing some internet stuff as well which is going OK as we’ve had lots of enquiries.
“In addition to the existing staff, I’ll bring in others for example, if we’re manufacturing stuff or perhaps sub-contract out some of the work.
“However, there are a few things we could do in-house like the bookkeeping – which I could see us doing eventually – as well as other bits and bobs.
“In a small company, each individual overall is a big link in the chain.”
