COMPLIANCE ADVISORS IN GROWTH MODE

A Stockport company that specialises in advising retailers of age-restricted products has expanded for the third time in two years due to increasing demand. 

Under Age Sales, a social enterprise, was launched in June 2012 with a one-person office in Broadstone Mill to offer support and guidance to mainly small independent retailers on avoiding sales of illegal goods to young people and children.

Following new contract wins with the tobacco, gambling and alcohol industries, the business now occupies 501 sq ft at the mill and employs a team of eight people. This expansion will help position the business as the UK’s leading source of authoritative support for all issues relating to sale of age-restricted products.

Tony Allen, Managing Director of Under Age Sales Ltd says:

“For a start-up like us, being in a vibrant and encouraging environment like Broadstone Mill is hugely beneficial and its supportive ethos is reflected in the flexible set-up. This has been our third move in two years and we’ve gone from one member of staff to eight. That the Centre enables businesses like us to grow in such a way, free from red tape is fantastic.

“High profile issues around selling age-restricted goods to children and young people mean our skills and services are in high demand by the main industries as well as individual businesses, so our expansion will see us increase our work throughout the UK and support a wider range of organisations.

“Services like ERDF support and the opportunity to network with like-minded businesses based here too are extra benefits that we would otherwise not have had access to,” added Tony.

John Booth, centre manager at the mill commented:

“The Centre is designed to offer start-ups and early-stage enterprises a supportive environment and facilities that grow in line with their business and ambitions. Under Age Sales Ltd is a great example of how businesses can make the most of this.” 

Councillor Patrick McAuley, Stockport Council’s Executive Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, said:

“Success stories like this are testament to the support, collaboration and flexibility available at Broadstone Mill and we’re thrilled to have been part of this business’s journey so far.”