www.dmsol.co.uk
Today’s profiled client is Liam Butchers from Display Media Solutions Ltd.
Display Media Solutions are a print and display company which specialises in products for retail, trade and exhibitions.
We asked Liam some questions about his company and experiences of being a business owner, and here’s what he had to say.
You can find Display Media Solutions at www.dmsol.co.uk, or call them on 0845 116 2700.
What does your company do?
Large format print, exhibition materials, display equipment, conference set up, trade shows, supplier of pop-ups and banners.
What makes your business different?
Display Media Solutions was formed because the market has become saturated with foreign ‘knock-offs’. I realised that quality at a good price is what the market doesn’t currently have. In layman’s terms, we offer the very best quality products and prints at the most competitive price in market.
What inspired you to start this business?
It may sound a little cheesy but I genuinely love the industry. When I randomly come across my prints being used it’s a great feeling. I get an amazing buzz out of that.
"My most important bit of advice: know your market"
Have you previously run any other businesses?
I have worked in the industry a long while now, but this is my first ever business venture.
Do you have any staff or partners in your business?
I currently work with a couple of graphic designers and I also work closely with some of the world’s leading manufacturers in display and exhibition products. All my prints are produced using the very best materials available.
What characteristics do you have that will help you make your business a success?
I am a very focused and hardworking individual and have a lot of contacts and experience in my industry. I am under no illusions, I know that it will be tough, but I honestly believe that in life you get out what you put into it.
What are you most keen to learn that will help you grow your business?
I now need a couple of key accounts that I will look after very carefully and nurture and then really build upon that.
Are there any brands, companies or personalities that you most admire or aspire to?
If I am honest I really like Richard Branson and his Virgin brand. I also admire Apple – they have it all, really. Also Alan Sugar is an absolutely fantastic business role model, what he has achieved in his working life is simply incredible.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing your company?
Securing that elusive big contract, that’s it really. I feel that I have everything else in place now, and am ready to win that important client.
Display Media Solutions
Is being a business owner how you expected it to be, or have you had any surprises along the way?
If I am honest it is a lot tougher than I could have ever imagined, the accounting side of things is just mind boggling. I am learning quickly though, it’s interesting how running your own business makes you discover skills you never knew you had.
What is your main goal for your company?
To achieve a million pound turnover within 5 years.
Do you have any advice for people thinking of starting their own business?
Lots of advice and I am more than willing to discuss it with anyone who wants to listen. My most important bit of advice: know your market. That really is the key.
