Former journalist David Parkin launches events start-up

A TRAVEL and entertainment business, COPA, has been launched by former journalist David Parkin.

Mr Parkin, founder of TheBusinessDesk.com, has created the firm to provide travel and event services to the professional and corporate sectors across the North of England and London.

Corporate financier Steve Roberts, co-founder of McInnes Corporate Finance and chairman of AIM listed group Northern Bear, has invested in COPA and joined the board in a semi-executive capacity.

Andrew Dick, co-founder of professional services firm Begbies Traynor has invested in the business alongside Dan Summerfield, former director of challenger bank Aldermore.

The investment will be managed by Panacea, an entrepreneurial investment company founded by Mr Roberts and Mr Summerfield which specialises in providing capital and strategic solutions to support and grow SME businesses.

Mr Parkin was business editor of the Yorkshire Post before launching TheBusinessDesk.com, the UK’s first regional business news website, in 2007.

He said: “With the economy continuing to improve, more and more firms want to spend time with key clients and targets. The big question is what will attract the right people and deliver value?

“Launching and growing a business is all about getting the right advice and support by working with talented people, it’s great to have that in Steve, Dan and Andrew. “

Mr Dick said: “David has unrivalled contacts and knowledge of the business community across the North of England and COPA has some innovative ideas on how to deliver great value from events and travel experiences. It has an exciting future and I’m pleased to be investing in it.”