Member Article

Bradford entrepreneur opens Huddersfield salon with help from Enterprise Agency

Bradford-born entrepreneur Andrew Petty has launched his own hair salon in Huddersfield with the help of the West Yorkshire Enterprise agency.

Less than 8 months ago, Andie Petty began running his own business cutting clients’ hair in his own salon in Lindley.

After working at the same hairdressers for 20 years, Andie decided it was time for a change.

Originally from Bradford, 36-year old Andie has lived in Huddersfield for the past five years.

He decided the best way to move out on his own was to overcome health problems and get support on working out the way forward.

Andie was placed on the New Enterprise Allowance and started to work with the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency, was assigned a mentor who helped him with the business plan and, ultimately, he launched his own business, ‘&is Gents Hair Salon’.

Andie said: “It was a real low for me but I begin to set myself some goals, one of which was owning my own salaon and being my own boss.”

“I had done a fair bit of my own legwork on the business plan but the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency massively helped me to fill in the gaps.

“The support I received was really important – both from my mentor but also from my friends and family.

“Starting up in business is challenging and can be lonely, so you need people around you who can help.”

“It’s been well received locally, simply because there’s nothing like what I’m offering. I have already built up a loyal following of regulars, just through word-of-mouth advertising, and I am busy most days, which of course I’m delighted about.”

“I also have exciting plans for the future to introduce more services and grow the business, hopefully employing people so I can look after more clients.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Clare Burnett .