Success stories
David Swift and Dan Hardy
This was our chance to build something for our future instead of relying on others.
Swiftlease, based at the Lomeshaye Industrial Estate, had satisfied customers coming back for more after just a few months in business.
David Swift and Dan Hardy started the business with 25 years of experience in the car business.
A period of trial trading and research led David and Dan to No Limits, which was able to provide advice and support, as well as a grant to help with a range of start up costs.
Why did you want to start your own business?
We both worked in a BMW dealership. We saw more people going towards leasing. David did finance, Dan did sales, so we were a good fit. And we wanted to be our own bosses.
What was the deciding factor for you?
This was our chance to try to build something for our future instead of relying on others.
How did you get the business off the ground?
David did some months of trial trading and lots of research- looking at the whole market. Dan joined in July, with the business starting in August. Everything went according to plan, though you obviously have to adapt to things along the way.
Best bits about working for yourself?
The best thing is watching the business grow and grow. We’re building something for the future. And the feedback we’re getting is that the service we offer is a lot better than what people are used to. Some companies have already come back to us to arrange more cars.
What have been the biggest challenges so far?
A lot of what we do is dealing with third parties – it’s that type of industry. So we had to build up the relationships with the manufacturers and with the finance people. We’ve now got good relationships with ten major suppliers who offer us preferential packages.
What would you have done differently if you could go back?
Nothing. The plan was set out. We’ve followed the plan. It’s a competitive market, so we’ve got to use our heads. But we’ve had all the support so we’ve been guided in the right direction.
How does it feel to be your own boss?
Apart from the sleepless nights?! It’s a good feeling. We’ve got the experience – we can apply what we’ve learned over the years. We’re still on the learning curve, but we’ve got 25 years experience to draw on.
Finally, a piece of advice for those thinking about starting up?
Do your research – do a lot of it before you commit. Your cash flow forecast has to be spot on. Make sure cash flow is addressed regularly.
