- How did you get started in the industry?
On returning to the UK after living in Europe, I started to source and grow vegetables and seasonal produce unavailable in UK shops. I began to share this passion with others which led to the establishment of Original Touch World Garden Seeds.
- What advice would you give to others starting out?
Find something within the industry based on your beliefs or interests, so that your work is enjoyable and you can be motivated, even on busy, difficult or "bad weather" days.
- What does your typical day involve?
Week days involve work in the office such as accounts, marketing or progressing sales orders. Many evenings are spent sharing my passion with clubs and societies. Weekends will usually find me tending the garden.
- What takes up most of your time?
Office administration, but I also make an effort each day to communicate with our customer community, either on the telephone, by email or on Facebook and Twitter.
- What is the best aspect of your job?
Learning something new every day. I love speaking with customers individually and sharing stories and tips.
I don't think that any one person will ever know all there is to know about gardening and the environment.
- And the worst?
Nothing but the lack of time.
What is your greatest achievement?
Our reputation for customer service and community support. We have organised schools' growing competitions and helped community gardens.
- What does the future hold for the company?
As suppliers of high-quality niche seeds from around the world, it is an excellent time to be responding to public concerns about finances, health and the environment.
