Thorpe Electrical
Ashfield Accelerator is a brand-new business support project designed to help established businesses based in the District of Ashfield find practical solutions to improve commercial operations leading to sustainable growth. This is being funded by Ashfield District Council’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and delivered by East Midlands Chamber.
About Thorpe Electrical
After many years as a successful sole trader, Robert Thorpe incorporated his business, Thorpe Electrical Solutions in 2020. The business specialises in residential and commercial electrical services covering the East Midlands, particularly Mansfield and Ashfield.
Now as a team of 8, Thorpe Electrical Solutions has vast experience in testing a wide variety of installations from domestic housing to commercial offices. The business is fully NAPIT-approved which means the team works safely and to legally required standards.
Challenges faced
The business has faced many challenges in recent years from rising costs to tackling Covid lockdowns. There was also the transition from a sole trader electrician to growing a business, recruiting and managing staff.
A lot of time has been spent developing services and launching another company in the energy sector, as well as on diversification. Growth is the ambition but at the same time managing costs and keeping up-to-date with changing environmental requirements.
The solution and impact
Robert has been supported through the Accelerator programme by Chamber Business Adviser, David Smith, particularly around the financial aspects of the business. The use of subcontractors has recently been reduced to increase efficiency and save on labour costs. The business is also combating rising costs and tracking each job to see where further efficiencies can be made.
David’s insight has also helped in a further two areas.
Firstly, by supporting Robert to benefit from Help to Grow: Management, a 12-week executive development leadership and management programme. A Chamber subsidy meant that 100% of enrolment costs have been met. The programme is helping Robert build his strategic knowledge and skills. It has focused his thinking on what his business offers and the jobs it takes on, as well as tracking profitability and marketing for higher-value work.
The course has already had an impact on staff with better engagement than ever before, helping them develop and grow as the business expands. Robert says he is learning a lot and looking forward to scaling up with a new business plan.
Secondly, a Growth Voucher from the Chamber has enabled the business to commission an external consultant, Sophie from Be Your Best Version, to provide support and a greater understanding of reducing their carbon footprint. New processes are now in place, helping them be more environmentally friendly now and in the future.
A word from the business ...
“David and his team have been a huge help to our organisation – from our 1-to-1 meetings, helping us with the numbers, informing us about the Help to Grow programme and accessing the Growth Voucher. David helped me years ago before I started the business. He’s been a great help, just as he was back then! I couldn’t recommend anyone more highly!”
Robert Thorpe, Founder and Director