Should a proudly Scottish company open up its business model to broader horizons? That’s the question that was put to two of Scotland’s top entrepreneurs by Karl Russell, co-founder of ParkWise Solutions.
Prestwick-based ParkWise has developed a patent-pending technology that protects parking spaces, particularly those for disabled drivers, and links them with local businesses. The technology allows disabled drivers to seamlessly park, check for available spaces and receive discounts at participating retailers.
Discussing his company’s mission on the Go Radio Business Show’s ‘The Board You Can’t Afford’ feature, Mr Russell asked: “Are we inhibiting the chances of our initial success by attempting to keep as much Scottish identity as possible?”
Lord Willie Haughey responded: “Don’t have this barrier. You only want to look for Scottish investors? You may be lucky with someone in Scotland but, if you broaden that horizon, there’s more chance of you being successful.
“So for me, 100%, I would be opening up the business.”
Sir Tom Hunter agreed, adding: “Scotland’s your home, the world is your market.”
He pointed out being from Scotland was a huge advantage all over the world when seeking new opportunities.
“Scotland is a great differentiator. We have tried to help businesses like yourself with Scottish Edge. You can use the Scottishness but market your business as wide as you like.
“I think coming from Scotland is a big business advantage so make the most of it.”
Lord Haughey noted: “There’s huge scope for you. You’re right to try to grow your business in Scotland and prove it is successful. You’ve a model and a patent pending. If that’s successful and it works, use Scotland as your pilot. When that works, it’s portable – it could be in England next week, it could be across Europe or wherever it may be.
“Some of the big brands we talk about are not just Scottish businesses – such as the Bank of Scotland and the Royal Bank of Scotland – they’re UK-wide and Europe-wide.
“So I would certainly open up. I wouldn’t like to close the parameters so that it was all Scottish to deal with. You’re not shortbread!”
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