We want to highlight the fantastic array of small businesses we have on our doorsteps. In this feature we ask an FSB member some key questions about their business journey and involvement with FSB. This week, Aberdeen-based Anne Esson, Managing Director of Protect-Net UK Ltd, tells her story.
If you have a story to share, please get in touch with us at [email protected]
Tell us about your business.
Protect-Net UK Ltd is the only official UK and Ireland distributor of all Poly-Net® Protective and Packaging Products. The unique mesh sleeves are highly versatile and are used within various industry sectors to protect valuable products and goods which are prone to damage, scratching or breakage during the manufacture, storage or transportation process.
Typical products are precision engineered components, cnc machined parts, gas cylinders, fire extinguishers, glassware, ceramics and spirits, wine and beer bottles. These nets and grids protect the sensitive surfaces and edges of high-quality goods during production, cleaning of parts, storage, dispatch and shipping.
My journey with Protect-Net UK started in 2019 after my previous employers were acquired by an Italian company, and after 22 years with NSW Technology Ltd redundancy loomed. At this time, the new owners decided they didn’t wish to continue with one of NSW’s product ranges as it did not fit with their portfolio. This left NSW with the dilemma of having no outlet in the UK for their Poly-Net® Protective and Packaging range of products. Knowing I was on the lookout for a job, they approached me to see if I would care to take on the challenge. The rest they say is history and I’m now the Managing Director of Protect-Net UK Ltd and running my own company.
What’s the best things about working for yourself?
I had to make many decisions in quite a short period of time and it’s taken much courage and determination to take the plunge, but after years of working for someone else, it has to be being my own boss and being able to plan my life/work balance to a much better ratio.
What piece of advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own business?
Be brave and have faith in yourself. Take advice and listen carefully to friends and family.
Have you used any of your FSB benefits?
I have used the legal and premises insurance benefits and the virtual networking has been very supportive through lockdown.
Check out the following channels for more on Protect Net UK:
Website - Twitter - Facebook - LinkedIn