Yesterday, Orangebox Training Solutions hosted an inspiring event, ‘From a £58 Computer to £1M+ Turnover’ at our Tranquility House offices, in Hartlepool.
Our CEO Simon Corbett shared his entrepreneurial journey, talking about the evolution of Orangebox from its humble beginnings to becoming a million-pound enterprise.
In his presentation, Simon recounted how he founded Orangebox in 2016 with just a £58 second-hand computer. Drawing from his background as a former police officer, he identified a need for quality training solutions and was determined to fill that gap. Starting as a solo venture, Simon’s commitment to excellence and innovation led to the company’s rapid growth. By 2021, Orangebox had doubled its staff to 22 employees and relocated to Tranquility House at Hartlepool Marina to accommodate its expansion.
Throughout the event, Simon discussed the challenges he faced, including the hurdles of self-employment and the critical decisions that shaped Orangebox. He emphasised the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the willingness to embrace change. A notable example was during the pandemic when Orangebox transitioned to online training platforms, ensuring continuity and even securing major contracts with companies like Amazon and Tesco.
Simon also highlighted the significance of building a dedicated team. By 2023, strategic appointments, such as the addition of a Director of Continuous Improvement and a Client Relationship and Implementation Manager, were instrumental in driving the company’s expansion into new places like Liverpool.
A key takeaway from Simon’s talk was the power of taking risks. He explained that investing in the right technology and marketing strategies played a crucial role in Orangebox’s growth. He shared insights into the company’s early financial struggles and how securing the first major client helped establish credibility in the training industry.
Simon also reflected on changing industry needs which allowed Orangebox to remain competitive. The company’s focus on bespoke training solutions tailored to different industries has been a defining factor in its success.
Another significant topic Simon addressed was the loneliness of entrepreneurship. He shared how, despite building a thriving company, the journey often felt isolating, especially in the early days. The weight of making every decision, handling financial pressures, and driving the business forward without a guaranteed safety net can be overwhelming. Many attendees related to this struggle, nodding in agreement as Simon described the long nights of doubt and the moments when he questioned if he was on the right path. However, he emphasised the importance of surrounding himself with a strong support network whether through mentors, peers, or a committed team to navigate the mental and emotional challenges of running a business.
The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where attendees engaged with Simon on topics ranging from leadership challenges to strategies for scaling a business. Participants expressed appreciation for the transparent insights and practical advice shared. Many left the event feeling inspired, with a renewed motivation to pursue their own entrepreneurial ambitions.
Simon’s journey and story of Orangebox stands as a reminder that with determination, the right mindset, and a willingness to adapt, anyone can turn a simple idea into a thriving business.
