Chris Holland
Telegraph & Argus
1 March 2012

Support from a Bradford enterprise scheme for firms with high growth potential is keeping a young smoothie-making firm on track to double turnover this year and reach its target of £4 million in sales in the next four years.

Bosses at Ilkley-based FRUT have discussed growth plans and new product development with a business adviser from Rising Stars, the Council and Chamber of Commerce-backed enterprise programme.

Three months after initial meetings with Rising Stars adviser Peter Briggs, FRUT founder Michael Booth and director John Phillipson have identified potential export markets, received access to finance through the Bradford-based Business Enterprise Fund and reviewed FRUT’s online presence.

FRUT, based at Coutances Way, was launched in 2009 to supply innovative smoothie-dispensing machines for offices, motorway services, schools and colleges, and now also offers a range of fruit smoothie drinks to retail and catering customers.

Michael said: “John and I have considerable experience in the drinks industry and have grown our business to a size where we have excellent distribution and awareness in the independent retail outlets and delicatessens across the country.

“However, we’ve benefited from the expertise of the Rising Stars team who have opened new doors in terms of online support, financial assistance and advice around manufacturing, warehousing and logistics options – all of which is contributing to a more comprehensive and structured future for our development, and which will undoubtedly contribute to our projected increase in turnover.”

For further information about Rising Stars, visit rising-stars.biz.