Business award in the offing for print boss's struggle against illness

A Shetland entrepreneur who set up a printing firm while battling a debilitating illness has been nominated for a UK business award.

North Isles Industries (NII) founder Ian Richardson is one of 10 candidates for the £5,000 Barclays Trading Places Award, which recognises people who have battled against the odds to set up a business.

Richardson purchased and moved existing print firm Nelson Smith from Brae to his home of Unst.

Meanwhile, he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, but managed to overcome both personal and logistical difficulties and establish the company.

The renamed North Isle Industries, which employs six people, includes leaflets, flyers and books in its output.

Richardson told printweek.com: "In our first 17 months, our experience and ability has greatly improved and we've managed to attract new clients to add to those we already had.

"We do a lot of work for BP, Shetland Islands Council and people all over Shetland. The business just seems to be getting better and better," he added.

Richardson wants to add to the firm's equipment range starting from the next financial year.

"Ideally, we want to get a two-colour printer within the next two to two-and-a-half years, but that could change if I win the prize money."

Richardson is one of 10 candidates in the running for the cash prize, which will be awarded at a ceremony in London on 2 October.

"My wife saw that people were being put forward for these awards. We sent down a portfolio and I forgot about it," he said.

"It was just a surprise, but it is brilliant and it has been a big morale booster. We worked quite hard and when somebody comes up and says 'We think you work hard, too', it's a big boost for the whole company."
Source: printweek