Full Steam Ahead For New Ironing Service

31st October 2005

A new Caithness business aims to offer a very welcome alternative for those tired of hours spent at the ironing board. Janet Crossley and Lorna Gunn from Watten have started ‘Press On’, which will offer a complete ironing service, including collection and delivery, throughout Caithness.

Before taking the plunge into starting their own business, Janet and Lorna did a lot of research into different ideas, and, as they both work full-time they were looking for something which they could do on a part-time basis, from home and with relatively low start up costs.

Having struck on the idea of an ironing service they tested the market by circulating a leaflet to homes to gauge what demand there might be. Encouraged by the positive response they received they decided to contact Caithness and Sutherland Enterprise (CASE) for advice and assistance on starting their business.

According to Lorna: “Ian Thomson at CASE has given us great advice and kept us informed every step of the way and made the process very easy to understand. His general business knowledge has helped us greatly and we hope this will be the start of a long and successful business.”

Caithness and Sutherland Enterprise (CASE) assisted Janet and Lorna to set up ‘Press On’ with a business start-up grant of £1,800, which is paid in 12 monthly instalments. Business start-up grants provide new businesses, full or part-time, with support and financial assistance by providing a regular income over the first 12 months of trading - traditionally the hardest time for a fledgling company.

According to Ian Thomson, development manager at CASE: "Janet and Lorna have done their homework before starting the business and I’m sure, given the hectic pace of modern living, this will prove to be a very popular service."

For more information on the services provided by ‘Press On’ contact Lorna & Janet on 01955 621 261 or email presson@btinternet.com