Policeman prints new chapter as business takes off

A policeman turned entrepreneur has switched careers after his printing business took off.

Alex Liggett, from Staffordshire, set up The Vinyl Guys after eight years working out of his spare bedroom.

A race car enthusiast, he started making stickers for his own cars in 2013 and over the years his one man operation grew, selling products on eBay and directly to customers.

After an 18-year career in the police, Liggett decided to leave his job in July 2019 and in September 2020 moved the business to new premises in Stafford.

Eighteen months later, he says he is in a strong position as the UK economy prepares to fully open back up.

He said: “The Vinyl Guys has been the best decision – business has boomed, which has given me so much confidence in what we are building.

“The start of the pandemic was terrifying, but a number of our customers are trades people who were busy, so it was a strong period of growth for us, which included moving into our new unit.”

Liggett has taken on a full time member of staff – Chris Butler as production manager.

The business has been supported by Virgin Money.

Craig Walker, small business relationship manager at Virgin Money, said: “The Vinyl Guys is a great example of an entrepreneur exploring his passion and turning it into a viable career. Alex has a refreshing approach to business and the relationships he’s established are helping his growth strategy.

“Taking a business from a hobby to that next level is not an easy task and there are a lot of different areas Alex needs to consider on a daily basis, including marketing, production and admin, so I’m pleased we have been able to support Alex on the financial side and explore the different options that are available to him as he continues to expand.”