We did it...so can you!

Client: Kate Austen

Business: Podplus

Description: Sports Footwear, Gym, Sports Clothing, Podiatry, Chiropody, Sports Massage

Telephone:

Website:

Kate and her brother Tom I started Podplus Shop and Clinic in May of 2005 at The Julie Rose Stadium in Ashford. Tom is an experienced Podiatrist and Kate was newly out of university after studying business.

Both Kate and Tom have an active interest in sport. Tom felt there was an opportunity in Kent to prevent many foot and lower limb problems he encountered in his clinic, by advising people on what footwear would suit an individuals foot types and the activity they did.

Kate was in a position to research the business and after planning they felt it was viable so went ahead to look for finance. When the Kent Foundation offered them support this showed them that other people had confidence in the business plan and so they began building the business, Podplus.

The company is continuing to grow, with 3 part time members of staff, 2 clinic practitioners, with Kate working full time managing day to day operations. The clinic has expanded to not only offer Podiatry and Chiropody but also Sports Massage. Very soon they will be offering Physiotherapy and Reflexology. The shop continues to fit many running shoes but also other sports footwear including tennis, football and walking shoes.

What was the money used for?

The money from the Kent Foundation was awarded on condition of Kate and Tom signing the property lease for the Shop and Clinic. The money helped them to fit out the shop and clinic ready for opening.