The owner of Recognition Express Bristol urges anyone thinking of going self employed to take the risk and follow their heart.

After 20 years in various sales roles, Matt Richardson woke up two weeks before his 37th birthday with an epiphany.

Matt said: “I thought to myself, is there something out there different for me? I enjoyed my job and loved sales but realised that I wanted to be in control of my own destiny. Two weeks later I bought the Recognition Express franchise for Bristol North.”

Recognition Express is the UK’s leading supplier of corporate gifts, promotional products, badges and branded clothing.

“As part of a franchise I can combine all of the benefits of being my own boss with the advantages of having ongoing support and business advice from Recognition Express head office.

“I am passionate and committed to this business,” said Matt, 37, of Hanham. “There’s so many products, it’s amazing what I can sell.

“One of the attractions with Recognition Express is that the items we sell are in everyday use. People get really excited about freebies and giveaways and love to pick up and handle promotional products.

“I will be manufacturing some of the items myself and it’ll be very satisfying to be involved at every stage from order to delivery.”

Matt’s first order has come from an independent financial adviser who is sponsoring a pub quiz. He will be making branded key rings that incorporate bottle openers for all participants.

One of the benefits of being his own boss is being able to fit in other interests around his busy new venture. In his spare time, Matt runs a Slimming World class in Warmley and is one of the few men in the UK to have this role. He is also a keen photographer and plays bass guitar in a local band.

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