Boost Q&A: Matthew Rose, TankSafe

Blackpool-based TankSafe provides a range of systems to truck and other vehicle manufacturers to stop fuel theft. The company, which currently employs 12 people, took part in Boost's Growth Mentoring programme last year, following a business support review with Alan Reid from Boost's Growth Support Service team. Director Matthew Rose, who has also taken part in the Peer Networks programme, shares his thoughts with Boost on leading a business in Lancashire and advice for new entrepreneurs.

What support did you receive from Boost and how has it helped you and your business?

I participated in the Peer Networks programme and also received 1:1 mentoring on marketing. Peer Networks was fantastic, it helped share best practice with other businesses in our industry and enabled TankSafe to work on solutions and new strategies which we hadn’t considered previously.

What piece of advice stood out the most during your Boost support?

Constantly review all of your processes and strategies. The smallest tweak may create opportunities you never envisaged previously.

Who has been your biggest business inspiration and why?

I like those businesspeople who are constantly proving those that say ‘it can’t be done’ wrong. Secondly, I admire those visionaries who see opportunities and new products or services no-one else has thought of, or if they have, don’t believe it is possible. Branson ticks the first category and Steve Jobs comes to mind for the second.

What motivates you in business and why?

My belief that the products offered by TankSafe offer real, tangible value to customers and wider society. As our products are security and safety devices, I know that I am helping protect truck operators’ biggest operational cost (fuel) and helping reduce diesel spills, which have huge environmental and health and safety repercussions for the general public.

How do you like to start your working day?

Firstly, I hit the snooze button a few times. I’m one of those strange individuals (we do exist!) that doesn’t consume caffeine, therefore, my routine is pretty simple. I shower, get dressed, and if I am driving into the office I listen to some podcasts or some mid-90s indie/Britpop Spotify playlist on the journey. If I’m working from home, I shower, put on some shorts and a t-shirt, jump onto the laptop and just crack on with whatever is in the to-do list I created the night before.

Why is Lancashire a great location for a business?

• Fantastic transport links
• A number of large towns and cities with a varied range of career opportunities
• Long established prominent industries
• Fantastic universities and further education providers which means there is a good resource for talent and additional academic support, and most importantly a consistent characteristic amongst all Lancastrian people is this very strong ‘can do’ attitude that prevails in almost everyone.

What would you say to someone who is considering using Boost?

Why not? What have you got to lose?

What is your advice for anyone looking to grow a business?

Get your digital platform sorted. If you have an online presence, you are opening yourself up to opportunities from every part of the world. Secondly, network with anyone and everyone. Whether it’s a prominent businessperson you admire or someone standing next to you in a pub, tell them what you and your company do and offer. You’ll often be amazed at how a single conversation can subsequently develop into a huge opportunity.

Would you like to see your business grow? So would we. To speak to someone from the Growth Hub about business support, contact Boost online or call 0800 488 0057.