David Shannon

Name:

David Shannon

Business:

Gorilla Graphics

Web site:

Years in business:

1

Number of businesses:

I grew up in North Shields and went to John Spence Community High School. I suppose the early signs of the entrepreneurial spirit were there, all the other kids at school idolised Alan Shearer, my hero was Alan Sugar. I found school really difficult and had some bad experiences with teachers.

After leaving school with one GCSE, I was here there and everywhere with the number of jobs I had. I worked for the Inland Revenue, Galaxy Radio, as a bar supervisor and assistant bar manager all by the age of 17.

I decided I needed some stable income so I applied for an apprenticeship as an electrician. Knowing that this wasn’t what I wanted to do I slogged it out anyway as I needed the money.

Eventually my contract was terminated, as they found out I was running an internet trading business importing musical instruments and horse saddles.

Then after running another internet business which failed after I was let down by suppliers in China, I packed my bags said goodbye to my girlfriend and headed for London. I worked for a contact I had gained until I had enough money to sort myself out.

After realising that there was a huge gap in the market I saw an opportunity to turn a passion in to a business. I started Gorilla Graphics, a large format digital printing business that provides tailored signs for shops, restaurant, billboard signs and even vehicle wraps.

After selling my beloved Mercedes I invested in a highly expensive printer and promptly set out to gain as much business as I could, attending numerous workshops and setting up meetings with various different companies in the area.

I wake up everyday and feel more and more content. Starting this business is something I have always gunned for, supplying a good reliable service and having a pile of happy customers, and reaping the benefits financially.

I wouldn't say I was a success yet, but the wheels are in motion. I recently secured a £10,000 contract with a local leisure centre which I hope is a sign of things to come.

For me the secret to success is strong moral beliefs, with my business the customer comes first every time and keeping them happy is the most important thing.

I’ve been knocked down time and time again with money troubles, lack of confidence and lots of really hard times, but I never gave up. Now I’m looking to the future, my main aspirations for Gorilla Graphics at this early stage is growth, I eventually want a team to pass my skills on to and to expand the company’s grasp.

I’ve gained so much support from my girlfriend Louisa and my parents. They have helped pull me through the hard times and been a constant source of support and encouragement.

If I were to give advice to someone wanting to start their own business I’d say don’t sit around and wait for something to come along…it wont! Get out there and grab it.

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