BUDDING ALL BLACK ENTREPRENEURS

8th March 2010

BUDDING ALL BLACK ENTREPRENEURS

Two young Neath rugby supporters are demonstrating just the kind of enterprise that is normally associated with the Welsh Premiership leaders.

14 year old Jack Tomlinson and 13 year old Gregory Hawkes have been Neath supporters since their infancy. Like most rugby supporters they like to have something to eat and warm them up on a cold day watching Neath at the Gnoll.

But, although the club operates outside "wet trade" outlets at the ground, the enterprising pair of youngsters found that they couldn't obtain chocolates, sweets, soups and ice-cream - the goods that appeal to the palates of younger supporters.

Having spotted a gap in the market, they determined to do something about it and, with a little help from those in command at The Gnoll, Gregory and Jack have started their own little business.

Out of their own money, they liaised with builders and an electrician and have built a small hut at the ground to base their operation. They have also negotiated with suppliers to bring in new lines such as Joe's Ice Cream and they have implemented their own stock control system.

In lieu of rent, in keeping with business expectations, they are making a contribution of their sales from both the football and rugby games to Neath Rugby.

Deenna Barton, Neath's Commercial Development manager, said, "When the boys came to us with their idea, we thought they showed fantastic enterprise - the kind of thing society, not only rugby, needs to encourage.

"They work very hard at it, earn themselves some extra pocket-money and learn the realities and responsibilities of the commercial world at the same time.

"It will hold them in good stead in later life and we are so proud of them that we are thinking of nominating them for a young entrepreneur's award."

"Youngsters love coming to The Gnoll with its special atmosphere and we encourage them to take a full part. One of our match day programme-sellers Mason Hawkes is only 11 and he is a very persuasive salesman."

They have even come up with a name for their enterprise - in deference to Neath's mascot "Brian the Bull", they have christened their outlet "Calves' Corner".

So next time, you're at The Gnoll (next home game Tuesday 9th March 7.15pm kick off), call in at "Calves' Corner" and see Neath's budding Alan Sugars in action.