A lot has happened since Sanjeev Patel, managing director of marketing company CNG Business Services, became a finalist in the Young Entrepreneur Of The Year category of the Press Business Awards in 2004.
So much so that now Sanjeev is pitching for the Small Business Of The Year and Growth Business Of The Year titles.
He and his six employees at George Cayley Drive, Clifton Moor, York, have built up a huge database of like-minded corner stores, which they use as a tool to negotiate hefty discounts from suppliers.
The business expanded from marketing electricity and mobile phone e-top up services by joining forces with suppliers for cash dispensing machines, photocopiers and an array of products aimed at small, often retailing businesses.
The firm launched a new website, obtained its 250th customer, with 150 more in the pipeline. It has also recruited a business manager and independent sales agent. Commission-only turnover is forecast to be £45,000 next year.
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