An Iraq war veteran who lost his home and job before going on to launch a successful online merchandising business has opened up new offices across the world, including Ireland, the US and Canada.
Ex-Royal Navy serviceman Paul Rowlett, became destitute after his home in Leicester was repossessed in 2011, forcing him and his wife to live with friends on benefits of £75 a week.
Using a cheap laptop and a mobile he launched a company selling mugs, rosettes and key rings.
His break came when Leicester City Council asked him to supply mugs for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee visit in 2012.
Everything Branded has now growing into a multi-million pound business, employing 130 people and expanding to far flung corners of the world.
It operates under the parent company of Charles Alexander Distribution, and supplies promotional products to clients including Samsung, Tetley, Bisto, Asda, Greggs, Lufthansa, AA, ITV, the NHS, and several universities and councils.
Two years ago it took on 14,000 sq ft of space in Peat House, opposite Leicester Railway Station.
Mr Rowlett said orders were growing rapidly and he has appointed a new team to expand the company in the Republic of Ireland.
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The company will also be appointing a further 20 reps over the coming months to help meet a revenue target of £29.8 million this year, following a target of £17 million in 2018.
Mr Rowlett said: “Our ultimate goal is to be a Top 40 distributor by the end of 2019.
“That sounds like explosive growth, but we should be able to do it.
“We’ve got the numbers, the people and the management.
“It’s more passion than arrogance. Once we get there, people will see that we’re not going away. We’re here to stay.
“Our business is based around Google. We have very good SEO and a very, very strong online back office.
“It’s purely e-commerce. We advertise very heavily and we offer added value to our customers.
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“We know what works and we do it well and are now focussed on global expansion.
“Take a look at any branded merchandise which may be on your desk – chances are it’s an Everything Branded product.”
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As part of its US growth it initially established roots in Delaware, on the East Coast, then expanded to the West Coast, opening a sales centre and headquarters in Las Vegas in 2018.
He said EverythingBrandedUSA achieved £9.13 million in revenue in its first year, and sales were up substantially this year, with a new Canadian operation also launched.