Support Received: Workspace

Location: Previous tenant at Beacon Innovation Centre, Norfolk

Website: www.dapuk.co.uk

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When Clive Julian left school at 16 and joined a local freight forwarding company as a trainee, he was determined to make a career out of the opportunity he was given.

Clive is now the owner and CEO of dap UK, a worldwide freight forwarding and freight management company that employs 28 members of staff. Established in 2002, dap UK is one of the leading independent providers of global freight forwarding services. Whether shipment is by air, sea or overland, they provide tailored supply chain efficiencies for almost every industry imaginable, to every corner of the world.

After being based at Nwes’ Beacon Innovation Centre (BIC) for five years, dap UK is continuing to go from strength to strength, with sustained growth seeing the international company take on their own premise in Norfolk in March 2018. This is an addition to dap UK’s premises at Candlet House, Felixstowe and Hawkesyard Hall, Rugeley, Staffordshire. Despite relocating their Norfolk headquarters, Clive is grateful for the support BIC provided for his business while it grew, commenting that:

“Nwes’ stable office accommodation costs during the lease period at Beacon Innovation Centre, and having a prestigious premise to invite customers and suppliers to that never failed to impress, had a considered impact on the company’s growth.”

Like many entrepreneurs, Clive was driven to start dap UK through a desire to be his own boss, stating that one of highlights of founding the company was:

“To develop something of my own, and not being reliant on an employer for my career path.”

Despite Clive’s determination and willingness, he too has faced tough tests in building his local company with a global presence, experience that has given him a wealth of invaluable advice for fellow entrepreneurs. Clive notes:

“I have encountered many challenges and setbacks over the years, working through the problems in a methodical and organised way will get you through these difficult times.”

“Not being afraid to ask for advice, and never brush the problem under the carpet, it will not solve itself.”

If you would like to follow in Clive’s entrepreneurial footsteps of building an international company, his guidance is:

“Plan your business venture carefully, and don’t be afraid of the road ahead. Be confident in your own ability and determination to succeed but be prepared for setbacks, they will make you and your business stronger.”

Explore dap UK further by visiting their website.

Whether you’re ready to move on from your home study, a start-up looking to join the co-working community or a business in search of office space, at Nwes we have the workspace solution to meet your needs. Explore our centres here.

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