Free workshops help new Blackpool business focus on its future

A new Blackpool business that uses the latest technology to help other companies’ view their energy usage and consumption is set to take on staff in the near future, after the owner received free start up support through Boost Business Lancashire.

Paul Friday set up Future Focus Energy to provide real time Energy Monitoring and Management Solutions for companies that want to review the energy consumption that is being used across their business, so that they can make positive changes to reduce costs and their carbon footprint.

Future Focus design and install the monitoring systems bespoke to the needs of the business and results can be viewed on any Web enabled device such as PC, tablet or mobile phone.

Paul wanted to ensure Future Focus complied with all Human Resources legislation before the company employed staff, to ensure mistakes were not made throughout the recruitment and induction process.

He was able to access free start up support through the Lancashire LEAP programme, which is delivered for Boost by Regenerate Pennine Lancashire and Winning Pitch. He received free HR coaching and attended a seminar programme to ensure that he could find the right staff for his business.

Paul said: “This is a fantastic programme that provides so much support, when most needed. It has enabled us to set off our new company in the correct manner from the outset, assisting us every step of the way. I’m sure it has helped me avoid several of the pitfalls that are there for new businesses.”

Paul hopes to begin recruiting new staff to support the rapid growth of his company in both administrative and engineering positions in the near future.

Peter Legg, Head of Economic Development for Blackpool Council, referred Paul to Boost. He said: “From the early days we were able to point Future Focus Energy Ltd in the direction of relevant business support, particularly as it has such growth potential. I’m glad that some of the extra coaching and guidance has been well received at such an important time in the development of the business.” Lancashire LEAP can offer a new business a wide variety of free, specialised support to get it off the ground. Support includes coaching, international trade, HR, finance and mentoring support.