The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Making hobby pay perfect tactic
Newbusiness focus
When engineer Kurt Connell was in a serious motorbike accident, it gave him the push he needed to start his own business.
After he recovered, he decided to follow his dream and set up his own Airsoft company, thought to be the only one in the Highlands.
Airsoft is an activity in which participants use replica firearms to shoot non-metallic pellets in organised military scenarios.
Now after less than a year i n business, Mr Connell says he is attracting people from throughout Scotland to his site in Ross-shire.
Highland Tactical Airsoft is based at Balnagall on an old World War II airfield.
Airsoft had been a hobby of Mr Connell’s and his friends and, as they always had to travel to other areas in Scotland, he knew there was a gap in the market for a site near his home.
Mr Connell, 26, from Dornoch, said: “Having my own business was something I always wanted to do and, after being in the crash, I realised there was no time like the present. I knewlots about Airsoft and I knew that there was a demand for it in the area so I just went for it.
“I found a great location, one that really adds to the atmosphere of each game, and from our involvement in the sport previously, my friends and I were able to let regular players know about my new venture which was a great help in the first few months.
“Without the advice and support of Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust and Business Gateway, I don’t think I would have been able to get the business up and running.”
David Knight, regional development officer with Business Gateway, said: “We have supported his business since Kurt came to us and will continue to advise and supporthimas thecompany expands in the future.”