Thompson Cares for Turf with the Help of Financial Boost
- Marta Macialek
- Aug 26
- 2 min read
Former football Head Groundsman, Andy Thompson, starts his own gardening maintenance business as Thompson Turfcare, offering sustainable, professional services.
Funded by Start Up Loans
£15,000 boost towards:
Van purchase
Additional equipment
Launching a new website
Region: South-Yorkshire
What does your business do and how is it different from other gardening services?
We offer a range of garden maintenance services such as:
Pressure washing
Residential cleaning
Tree pruning
Hedge trimming
Lawn installations
Grass cutting
The majority of the professional equipment I used is battery-powered, which is specific to the region. The equipment offers zero emissions, reduced noise levels, and decreased operational expenses.
What inspired you to start your business?
I was confident that I could make a valuable contribution of turf care, given my 24 years of extensive experience in professional sports turf management.
In 2021, I transitioned from the football sector to open a hair salon with my husband, which provided me with valuable business experience. However, I found myself longing for the turn maintenance industry, prompting my desire to return to a field in which I possess considerable knowledge.
Tell us a bit more about your background relating to the business
I acquired the knowledge and expertise necessary to manage such a business by working in the football sector between 1998 to 2021 as a Head Groundsman, Grounds Manager, and Operations Manager. Along with my spouse, I launched a hair salon in 2021, which has allowed me to learn more about business.
What challenges have you faced when starting this business?
Obtaining the initial funding to buy the necessary equipment was one of the main difficulties. Without the financing, I would not have been able to buy a van and equipment to provide the services that I do with Thompson Turfcare.
Comments from our Advisor and the Founder
“My interaction with First Enterprise was straightforward, and the templates offered were extremely useful, allowing me to refine the business proposal into a concise and understandable document. My advisor, James Minott, was helpful, knowledgeable, and always available whenever I needed support.”
Comments Andrew Thompson, Founder of Thompson Turfcare
“Andrew's expertise and passion for the turf maintenance industry was evident during his application process. It was very pleasant working with him throughout the process and I wish him continued success with his business.”
Comments James Minott, Business Advisor at First Enterprise
First Enterprise is a responsible finance provider offering unsecured loans ranging from £500 to £250,000 to support both start-ups and established businesses across the UK. Since 2011, First Enterprise has lent over £77 million to 7,305 businesses.
Learn more about how we can support your business.
