Courier Business talks to Steven Billen, founder and managing director of Kettins-based Art On Future Designs, about his mission to inject a little colour into the business world.
Q What did you do before you set up Art On Future Designs?
A I spent 25 years in the Royal Navy (the Submarine Service), from 1974 to 2000. From 2000 onwards I was employed in various sales-related jobs.
Q What was the inspiration behind your business set-up?
A I have been a keen photographer for 20-plus years, and by nature I have a very inventive character. I have more than 25 inventions waiting to be patented at the earliest opportunity as soon as finances allow.
I love colour, and my designs reflect that passion in all of my work.
Q Who has helped you?
A I purposely have set out to fund myself without any loans from the banks to prove to others that you can be successful without being tied down to loans.
Q What would you do in order to help small businesses if you were in power?
A I would make available all of the excess empty commercial buildings to new start-up companies and radically change the rateable value on these premises to give a fair chance to new start-up companies.
Q What would you say are the main difficulties of running your own business?
A The number one difficulty is finding the right team members to join your business. It has to be the team that grows the company, and not just one individual.
Q And what would you say are the biggest joys of running your own business?
A The freedom to employ the best staff and reward them accordingly to their dedication and efforts.
Q Has the process been one you expected?
A Yes, the process of running your own business and leading the growth of the business by professionalism and innovation is extremely rewarding.
Q What is your vision for the future?
A My immediate aim is to seek business angel investment for our wallpaper, tiles, textiles and fashion wear products, and look at export markets. I also want to set up a digital printing factory in Dundee in the next 12 months.
Q A message to others hoping to found their own business?
A Dream the biggest dreams you can and “Never Give Up, Nothing is Impossible, 4You, 4Me, 4Life”.