A Lanarkshire-based tourism company, Aspen Outdoors, has significantly expanded its services and increased its customer base by 40% after receiving expert support and funding from Business Gateway. Founded by Alastair Ewen in 2016, Aspen Outdoors offers a range of outdoor activities, including hillwalking, hiking, bushcraft, and navigation courses. The company has also started offering guided walking holidays, combining accommodation, transport, and guiding. With the help of Business Gateway, Aspen Outdoors has been able to grow its operations and reach a wider audience.
Strategic Growth and Expansion
Aspen Outdoors, under the leadership of Alastair Ewen, has seen remarkable growth since its inception. The company, which started with a focus on local tourism, has now expanded its reach to international markets. This growth was made possible through strategic planning and support from Business Gateway. The expert advice and funding provided by Business Gateway allowed Aspen Outdoors to invest in new equipment and marketing strategies, which have been crucial in attracting a larger customer base.
The company’s expansion included the purchase of eight canoes and a canoe trailer, enabling them to offer water-based expeditions. This new offering has been particularly popular among young people undertaking their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Additionally, Aspen Outdoors has been able to attend international conferences, such as the Educational Travel Consortium Conference in America, to further develop their knowledge of the global travel market.
The support from Business Gateway has not only provided financial assistance but also valuable guidance on hiring and training staff. Aspen Outdoors now boasts a core team of nine employees, all dedicated to providing exceptional outdoor experiences to their clients.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Opportunities
Running a small business comes with its own set of challenges, and Aspen Outdoors is no exception. The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant hurdles, but the company managed to restart its activities and continue its growth trajectory. Alastair Ewen credits the support from Business Gateway for helping them navigate these difficult times. The one-to-one support from a dedicated business adviser and the expert marketing consultant played a crucial role in developing effective strategies for business growth.
The funding received from the North Lanarkshire Council Business Growth Grant was a game-changer for Aspen Outdoors. It allowed the company to expand its offerings and reach a wider audience. The grant also covered the costs of attending international conferences, which provided valuable insights into the American travel market. This knowledge has been instrumental in attracting clients from the USA, Canada, and Australia.
Aspen Outdoors has also embraced digital marketing strategies to enhance its visibility and reach. The company’s presence on social media platforms has helped in building a strong brand image and connecting with potential customers. The strategic use of public relations has further boosted their marketing efforts, making Aspen Outdoors a well-known name in the tourism industry.
Future Prospects and Continued Growth
Looking ahead, Aspen Outdoors is poised for continued growth and success. The company plans to further expand its range of activities and explore new markets. The support from Business Gateway has laid a strong foundation for future growth, and Alastair Ewen is optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead.
The company is gearing up to attend more international conferences and develop partnerships with travel agencies worldwide. This will not only enhance their knowledge of global tourism trends but also open up new avenues for business expansion. Aspen Outdoors is committed to providing unique and memorable outdoor experiences to its clients, and the future looks promising with the continued support from Business Gateway.
Aspen Outdoors’ journey is a testament to the impact of strategic support and funding on small businesses. With a clear vision and dedicated team, the company is well on its way to becoming a leading name in the tourism industry.
