Western Isles business Studio Vans is on the road to success

Studio Vans was founded in June by Rob Hall, with support and expert advice provided by Business Gateway. (Photo: Christina Riley)

Founded in June 2020 by chartered engineer Rob Hall, Studio Vans Ltd makes innovative, ready to go fit outs for campervan conversions.

Rob and his team first engaged with Business Gateway following a recommendation from another local business.

He was able to secure funding through the Outer Hebrides Young Entrepreneurs Start-up scheme and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Grants for Growth Scheme.

This enabled the business to buy key manufacturing products and contributed to the fitout costs required to help get the business launched at their location in Balivanich, which is a unit leased from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

Business Gateway facilitated a number of introductions and networking opportunities and Rob has continued to receive a variety of support including advice on premises, company regulations and marketing.

He has also been successful in securing funding through Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

Studio Vans has now introduced a waiting list to cope with demand from across the UK and has already confirmed partners to take operations overseas to Australia and New Zealand.

Ongoing collaborations include Glasgow-based designer Still Life Workshop remoulding far-flung ocean plastic collected from the Uist beaches into innovative products for van fitouts.

Rob said: “As we were relatively new to the island, engaging with Business Gateway was crucial in making new business connections.

“As a direct result of Business Gateway introducing us to others, we have benefited greatly from local knowledge and culture that has helped us shape the direction and philosophies of the business during these early stages.

“Additionally, the practical business support on funding, business plans and company regulations has been a huge help during the initial start-up period.”

Alastair Macleod, business adviser at Business Gateway, added: “The recent expansion plans and the increase in customer traffic is testament to the ongoing hard work and dedication from everyone at Studio Vans.

“The future is looking very bright for Rob and his team.”