TRICKY BUSINESS 2

PROGRAMME 1: CYCLEPODS

PROGRAMME OUTLINE

00:00 – 04:46

Introduces designer James Steward, his business partner Natalie Connell and mentor John Boyle. Describes the Cyclepod and the cash flow crisis facing the business.

04:47 – 07:51

John visits Cyclepods. He endorses the product and confirms that James has a sound business idea. He tells James to update the business plan, sell himself and concentrate on getting investment to pay for the entire Cyclepod production that will boost profits.

07:52 – 13:04

James fails to attract investors. John advises him to be proactive and keep trying. The cash flow crisis worsens. Natalie gets a secretarial job to pay the bills.

13:05 – 15:09

James agrees to sell 26% of the company to an investment team for £150,000.

15:10 – 19:28

John advises James to use the investment money to increase profits. The investors raise their offer to £230,000. Natalie returns and decides to move Cyclepod production from India to China. The profit margin rises to 76%.

19:29 – 21:34

After three months, the business is on a sound financial footing. James and Natalie win the Shell LiveWire Young Entrepreneur of the Year award.

21:35 – 24:05

Progress review. The cash flow crisis is over and the company can supply Cyclepods on demand.