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Brewing up a business success with Let’s Do Mentoring

The couple behind Best of British Beer have seen continual growth since they set up the internet based retail business in 2011.

But the move from senior roles in large companies to setting up a new business is always challenging and they have called in support from mentor David Milburn to act as a sounding board and wise counsel.

“I have always enjoyed beer,” said Will. “But we see ourselves as business owners first and the passion for beer is a bonus.

“Both Gill and I were looking to do something different with our careers and we researched several business ideas before settling on a concept for Best of British Beer.”

Gill added: “We realised that there was a buzz around beer. People were becoming more aware of the wide choice available, yet there were very few outlets serving the growing beer at home market.

“We were members of a wine club and wanted to provide a similar service to people who, like us, are also particular about the beer they drink.”

A reputation for great service and the ability to enhance the customer experience by offering a variety of beer packages has seen strong growth for Best of British Beer.

“We started off as a home business using our dining room as a packing area and have gone through five moves and the recruitment of five additional members of staff.

“David was introduced to us by Let’s Do Mentoring and offers us support in many ways.

“It is valuable to have someone outside the business looking in who can help us to refine our sales processes, costs and take a general overview of how we work.”

David is an experienced mentor and can draw on experience gained at senior management level in corporate finance.

“David said: “It can be hard to look at the bigger picture when you are busy working in the business. Best of British Beer is a quality business and my experience helps Will and Gill to continue to plan for further growth.

“They have asked me to look at costs and how to improve profitability. The business has several sales peaks throughout the year and is already looking at Christmas 2014.”

Will added: David comes along with a fresh pair of eyes which is a huge help. Over and above that we get on well – the relationship works.”

Turnover doubled last year and the company recorded 99 per cent customer satisfaction rates in independent surveys – please raise a glass to toast Best of British Beer, a Staffordshire business success story.

Positive outcomes

Business Practice:
Mentor and client work together to improve profitability and cut costs.

Prospects:
Plans for new jobs and growth.