FT Start-Up Stories

Matt Johnson, an American entrepreneur based in London, co-founded Bare Conductive, known for developing conductable paint. He shares his journey from an innovative academic project to a versatile product line. The discussion reveals the challenges they faced with counterfeiters trying to clone their revolutionary Touchboard. Matt delves into the balance of open-source technology and brand integrity, highlighting community support and legal strategies as crucial in their battle against counterfeiting. His story illustrates resilience and creativity in transforming challenges into business opportunities.

In this conversation with Tristram Mayhew, co-founder of Go Ape, he shares his inspiring journey from corporate life to creating an exhilarating tree-top adventure business. Tristram discusses the risks of leaving the city behind, the challenges they faced launching their venture, and the importance of location and partnerships. He also highlights the unique benefits of entrepreneurship outside urban areas and the role of optimism and luck in their success. Tune in for insights that blend adventure with business wisdom!

Discover inspiring stories from global entrepreneurs as they share their journeys of success and failure. Explore the highs and lows of building businesses, including the thrill of a treetop adventure startup. Delve into the intersections of entertainment and risk management, featuring companies like Mattel and OnlyFans. Get insights into the latest trends and the importance of resilience in the entrepreneurial world.

Paul Collins, CEO of M&A advisor Equiteq, shares valuable insights on exiting a business. He discusses the complexities and challenges founders face when considering a sale, including the emotional journey and support issues with advisors. Personal anecdotes illustrate the negotiation hurdles and restrictive deal clauses encountered. Collins also emphasizes the need for long-term planning, recognizing personal capabilities, and preparing successors, while reflecting on life after a successful exit and exploring new ventures post-retirement.

In this engaging discussion, Andrew Mullinger, Co-founder of Funding Circle, shares insights from his startup journey in corporate debt. He highlights the thrill and challenges of rapid growth while balancing short-term gains with long-term vision. Andrew emphasizes the importance of strong communication with investors and adapting employee roles as the company expands. He also discusses how collaboration with other businesses can ignite success and nurture a shared purpose, underscoring the need for adaptability in a constantly evolving market.

Branding goes beyond logos; it's about a clear business purpose known by everyone involved. Discover how collaborations can enhance brand identity and foster community among creative agencies. Learn strategies for protecting your brand in retail through transparency and resonant communication. Explore cost-effective ways to promote your brand using media engagement and customer feedback. Finally, understand the importance of clarity in articulating your brand's values to ensure cohesive teamwork and strategic success.

A new mother's unexpected labor during a funding round illustrates the chaos of juggling family and business. The discussion highlights key strategies for merging parenthood with entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of support systems. A couple shares their experience of balancing marriage and a startup, showcasing the need for open communication. Challenges of family business partnerships are explored, with a focus on transparency and professionalism to maintain harmony. Practical advice offers insights into navigating these complex dynamics.

Alex Cheatle shares the harrowing near-death experience of his business amid the dotcom bubble burst. He discusses the emotional turmoil of layoffs and the resilience shown by his team. The conversation highlights maintaining core values during crises and how failure can be a springboard for innovation. Lessons on embracing setbacks as opportunities for growth and the necessity of transparency in learning from mistakes are emphasized. The episode showcases the critical journey from struggle to success in entrepreneurship.

Lorne Vary, finance director at Brompton, shares insights on the company's bold pricing strategy, which has seen a 65% price increase without affecting sales. He discusses how market conditions shape these decisions while maintaining quality and brand integrity. Gerard Burke, a marketing expert, emphasizes the importance of pricing as a strategic tool that influences customer perceptions and competitive positioning. Together, they navigate the complexities of pricing in the cycling industry, revealing practical advice for businesses to thrive even in challenging economic climates.

James Watt, Co-founder of BrewDog, shares insights on cultivating a passionate community around craft beer. He discusses how engaging customers as investors creates memorable experiences and influences product development. Watt highlights the importance of listening to customer feedback for choosing business locations, stressing that strong customer relationships are vital for sustainability. Additionally, he emphasizes transparency and aligning with consumer values to foster loyalty and drive marketing efforts, showcasing the modern shift in customer-business dynamics.