A 16-year-old entrepreneur has been praised for his ingenuity in starting up his own gardening business and building a trailer out of an old shopping trolley so he could expand his enterprise in Rushcliffe.
Leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council Cllr Simon Robinson said Mack Thomas from West Bridgford is an inspiration to businesses across the Borough as many reopen tomorrow (June 15) for the way he has adapted his business to widen his customer base.
Since starting his business, Mack has adapted a recycled former crutch pole to help him attach a trailer to his bike and increase the range of tools he can transport to each job.
In recognition of the current COVID-19 pandemic, he has even adapted to ensure customers can choose contactless payment options where preferred and is continuing to practice social distancing as necessary.
• West Bridgford boy builds own trailer and launches gardening business
Cllr Robinson said: “Mack should be congratulated for what he has achieved from scratch with his business. He is a great example of so many local business owners across Rushcliffe who are innovating so effectively in light of COVID and tackling what we face head on.
“It’s a hugely challenging time for businesses currently and we are committed to helping all wherever we can, be it through central government grants, signposts to advice and guidance on how to reopen securely or just how business owners can expand their network of contacts.
“I wish Mack all the very best for the future and have no doubt we will be hearing more about his success in the years to come.”
The young business owner is also currently widening his skills two days a week by undertaking training and gaining additional experience to prepare his business for the future.
Mack said: “I’m really pleased to still be working and expanding my business during a time that has been so difficult for so many businesses.
“I’m really pleased with the progress I’ve been able to make with the support of customers across Rushcliffe and I’d encourage everyone to keep following the COVID guidelines.”
Any business owners seeking advice or in need of support as they look to reopen are encouraged to visit the Borough Council’s website at www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/businesscoronavirus to explore the range of resources and information available.
It includes signage from the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, practical guidance for employers from the Health and Safety Executive, an online grant finder to help Rushcliffe businesses seek and secure funding and further updates on the guidance from the Government.
Residents returning to the high streets in the coming weeks are reminded to play their part by wearing a face mask when visiting business premises and practicing social distancing.
