THE SUCCESS THE FAILURES
THE SUCCESS THE FAILURES
Hi, I’m John Thomson, and I’m excited to share my journey with you. I grew up in a small, rented one-bedroom flat. Leaving left school early without any formal qualifications—but here’s the truth: success isn’t determined by what’s on paper. Whether you have a long list of qualifications or none at all, your ability to succeed in business comes down to mindset, adaptability, and the drive to keep pushing forward. Fast forward over 40 years, and I’ve built a thriving career as an entrepreneur and business owner, navigating the ever-changing tides of the business world. Along the way, I’ve faced obstacles, embraced change, and hit milestones . Now, I’m excited to take you on a journey toward financial freedom and success in the digital age. The lessons I’ve learned, the strategies I’ve mastered, and the insights I’ve gained are all here to help you carve your own path to success—no matter where you start. Making it happen—together.
We’re Here to Help
We’re Here to Help
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of diving into a wide variety of industries, each one offering its own unique challenges and rewards. My entrepreneurial journey has spanned everything from manufacturing and retail to logistics, real estate, franchising, and more. Along the way, I’ve experienced the highs of success, the setbacks that build resilience, and the invaluable lessons that come with both.
I’ve owned and operated an incredible range of businesses—filling stations, hotels, convenience stores, pubs, restaurants, fast food outlets, carpet stores, parking lots, taxi fleets, car sales—you name it, I’ve probably been there! Every venture has broadened my expertise, and now I’m excited to share that with you as we navigate your path to success together.
Commercial Property
Commercial Property
I invested in commercial property and leased it back to my other businesses to create long-term stability and control over my business locations.
By owning the property, I can benefit from potential appreciation in value, while leasing it back provides a steady cash flow and tax advantages. This strategy also helps consolidate my business assets and ensures that my companies operate in secure, well-maintained spaces without the uncertainties of renting from third-party landlords."
Residential Property
Residential Property
Again having owned several properties in this ever changing market, these are long-term investments are just another way of spreading my risk. Here's a brief overview:
Pros:
1. High Demand: There's strong demand driven by lower interest rates and urbanisation trends.
2. Appreciation: Property values are generally increasing, offering potential returns on investment.
3. Diverse Options: From urban apartments to suburban homes, there's a range of choices to suit different needs.
Cons:
1. High Prices: Escalating property values can make it harder for first-time buyers to enter the market.
2. Interest Rates: While currently low, potential future increases could affect affordability.
3. Market Volatility: Economic changes or policy shifts can impact property values unpredictably.
Filling station and Services
Filling station and Services
This was a major venture, with the cost of purchasing and refurbishing the old filling station exceeding $1 million in the 1980s. The site featured a small 10-bedroom hotel, a pioneering Spar shop—the first of its kind to sell alcohol seven days a week on a filling station due to its hotel license. Additionally, it included a restaurant, a café, and a large bungalow where my former business partner and his wife still reside to this day.
This was a lesson on takeovers as it had an owner operator running several businesses from the site for over 30 years. This was funded by advanced rebates from oil companies and RBS funding.
This also gave me an insight into partnerships rebuilds and contracts.
Marketing Experience
Marketing Experience
Millions Of My Own Money Spent On Different Advertising
Mailshot.
Billboards.
Newspapers national and local.
Radio using known Celebrities.
Sponsorship.
Email Marketing.
Social media marketing.
Google marketing.
Businesses Passed And Present
Businesses Passed And Present
Taxi hire Vehicles
Taxi hire Vehicles
Navigating the fast-paced world of transportation. It’s taught me how to run a tight, efficient operation, handle logistics, and manage customer service on the go. This experience sharpened my skills in fleet management, problem-solving, and optimising resources—all key lessons that translate into success in any business.
manufacturing
manufacturing
Manufacturing our own products gave us a thrilling edge! It allowed us to create unique, standout brands while having complete control over our supply chain. No more waiting on others—we called the shots, ensured top quality, and brought our vision to life exactly how we wanted. It’s the kind of power and creativity that truly sets a business apart and drives success!
Million's sold online
Million's sold online
Crushing it online with stunning art and sculptures, we’re taking things to the next level. Together, we're have been conquering the digital realm since 2009 with incredible online products! Here’s the exciting part you can benefit for this knowledge
Collaborations
Collaborations
Franchising
Franchising
After having several franchises this gave me a good insight into how this business model works.
A franchise enables you, the investor franchisee, to operate a business. You pay a franchise fee and you get a format or system developed by the company . your return is around 20% of your investment
Licensing
Licensing
Again this business model was interesting.
Licensing generally involves allowing another company to use patents, trademarks, copyrights, designs, and other intellectual in exchange for a percentage of revenue or a fee. It's a fast way to generate income and grow a business.
Other Companies
Other Companies
Carpet's
Carpet's
We launched a new venture while still managing our second company: carpet stores located in the city centre and within several Texas HomeCare stores. Our marketing breakthrough,
"THE STORE THAT COMES TO YOUR DOOR," was a phenomenal success, surpassing in-store sales. The rapid demand taught us a valuable lesson about managing success and scaling operations effectively.
Galleries
Galleries
Recognising the growing demand for affordable art and sculptures, we set out to revolutionise the market. We aimed to create something distinct from the high-priced galleries, and we nailed it. Our venture resulted in one of the country's largest displays of art and sculptures, making quality art accessible to a broader audience. We transformed the landscape, proving once again that we could innovate and excel .
This leap not only expanded our presence to 12 mall locations with a team of 32 staff
Restaurant's
Restaurant's
In the early 1980s, we launched an exciting venture into the culinary world, creating and managing our own restaurants, fast food spots, and catering services. Our passion for great food and exceptional service propelled us to remarkable success, earning a loyal following and setting new trends in the industry. For example we had a fast food delivery service which we advertised on radio and local news papers