Being made redundant has turned into a blessing in disguise for businessman Steve Payne.

Losing his job set Steve on an entrepreneurial path which has seen him build a highly successful business in the hygiene supplies sector. And now Steve is celebrating 26 years of running a Chemex franchise supplying hundreds of businesses in North Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds.

Steve, a former RAF jet fighter technician, turned to Chemex after losing his job as a plant manager at a mineral water company and he’s never looked back.

“At the time it was disappointing, but it set me on a new path which has enabled me to create a successful business and a highly enjoyable lifestyle,” said Steve whose business is based in Minster Lovell. “I recognised there was a good opportunity with Chemex and I have really enjoyed growing the business and building relationships with so many wonderful customers.”

Starting from scratch Steve has built up a six figure annual turnover and the business continues to grow. He provides a consultancy and training service, backed by 600 specialist cleaning products, to a wide range of businesses including restaurants, hotels and residential care facilities.

Steve’s success has been praised by Chemex Managing Director Michael Graham who said: “Steve is a wonderful example of how to be successful in business. He has turned a bad situation to his advantage by having a positive can-do attitude. He provides exceptional customer service and helps hundreds of businesses across North Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds to maintain a first-class hygiene regime.”

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