Hi Steve, thank you for taking the time to talk to us today. Can you tell us first and foremost what inspired you and Sue to establish The Petit Horse Box Co?
I've worked in contractual catering for over 20 years. I did the Youth Training Scheme at Anfield and I've been there ever since, only now I work in the executive boxes. Similarly, Sue has a lot of front of house management experience and was a steward in the RAF. We decided we wanted to take our experience and do something that was for us and that was fun.

I know you're passionate about supporting local businesses. Can you tell us more about that?
Yes, we're based in the North West and we're very passionate about supporting other local businesses in the area. We only use products from local breweries and distilleries. 

That's great - for local business and the environment! What were the biggest obstacles you faced when setting up the business?
It's been a learning curve and it's meant roping in a lot of favours from friends and family. I think the thing we've realised more than anything is that it takes time to naturally build up a bit of momentum and get yourself noticed by events and organisers. We've been up and running for six months now and we're getting the gist of it, we've done a gin festival and a couple of repeat events and we're doing an event with Dior makeup in December. 

What would be your advice to potential caterers who are considering setting up an independent catering business?
I would say go for it but be aware that you will only get out what you put in. We work really hard and between our other jobs and our family, it's difficult but worth it. This isn't something you can really do as a hobby.

Would you ever consider expanding your offering in to food?
Yes definitely. This is our plan for 2020 as it increases our appeal to potential customers. In fact we've already bought all the equipment so watch this space!

It's great that you thinking about you can diversify your offering to attract more customers. How have you got the most out of your membership with NCASS this year?
Our due diligence folder has more than just helped us to tick boxes, but it's also instilled so much confidence in us that we're doing things right. NCASS has been a one stop shop for us and has given us peace of mind.
 

Finally, do you have any sustainability practices? And if so, what are they?
We're very conscious of being sustainable within the business. We don't use plastic at all! We use a local supplier for biodegradable packaging and we use glass whenever we work at private events to minimise our impact on the environment.