Student and graduate enterprise
Turning new ideas into market ready products
Company
Root4
Loughborough graduate
Rob Littlewood
Automotive Engineering 2007
A dynamic young company which began life as an engineering consultancy now helps to turn new ideas into market-ready products.
“We now have a great mix of creative product development, technical engineering know-how and numerous trusted contacts to assist with things like product manufacture and component sourcing in the Far East,’’ said Root4’s founder, Rob Littlewood.
The company still works on a consultancy basis for both large companies and individuals - finding solutions to technical, mechanical and electrical problems. But around half of the company’s work is now involved in the development of consumer products, taking ideas from concept to full-scale production.
Some of this development work is provided free in exchange for shares in the product. Rob explained: “We think this is a great way for people with good ideas but a lack of funding to get a product to market.’’
Rob has found that recommendation from previous clients has proved a strong source of new business. “The first two years have been spent building up the reputation of the business and, so far, all our customers have given great feedback and recommendations,’’ he said.
Rob enjoys the varied and challenging nature of Root4’s projects: “If it is not a challenge then it’s not really interesting and that is what I love about this work.’’
At present, the company employs consultants on a project-by-project basis but the beginning of economy recovery is seeing more work coming into the company and Rob hopes to start employing staff on a full-time basis.
Rob’s advice
“Focus on how you will survive the first year initially and don’t rush into things - which is difficult for me to say because I am rather spontaneous. However, once you have done all your planning, follow through. Although running your own business is very time-consuming, it is very satisfying.’’