Space-Plug has gone from a former fitter’s brainchild to sales in excess of 3.5 million units. That former fitter, entrepreneur and MD of Space-Plug, Cliff Petit says: “I’m over the moon! In all honesty, the concept had been in my head for such a long time, it’s actually been 25 years in the making, but it’s now well and truly made!”
Space-Plug’s approach might be unusual in the modern world but it seems the old-school business plan of not spending it until you have made it is paying off for the company. Cliff’s brother and business partner, Nige, recounts: “It seems like yesterday we were thrilled taking half a dozen packs to the post office … last year I had the logistical nightmare of creating 24 pallets of retail stock in the lounge of my two-bed flat!”
But this year the company is set to break out of the cottage industry-style of business, and it is looking to gear up in earnest with plans for major investment directly from company funds.
Cliff reports: “Taking a bit of time to build a business has proven to be the right move. There is such a trend to look for the instant gratification of major investment but avoiding that means we are now able to invest in major growth without any leverage against future profits safe in the knowledge that Space-Plug is hugely popular with an ever-growing list of delighted users.
“Space-Plug hits five-star reviews across the board and the ‘orange doofer’ fan club just keeps growing. As someone who’s done the job, I know, if you’re not into Space-Plug you’re just missing out!”
It would appear that these determined brothers are definitely doing things their own way, in their own light-hearted manner. “The company was started with just £3000 borrowed from the bank of dad!” says a smiling Cliff.
“This year Space-Plug is growing fast and our joint investment plan with our fantastic new manufacturer based in Sussex – Masona Plastics – is looking to top £200,000!”
These extensive plans, as well as the new manufacturing partnership, include new commercial management input, new tooling for the Mark II plug, new automated packing machinery, new patent applications, new products, new SKUs, new territories, new markets, new distribution, new media, a new website and of course many new customers.
This really is a genuine, old school, British success story and we’re wishing Space-Plug, Cliff and Nige the best of luck that it continues.
