Oliver’s graduation day was memorable for more than one reason. It was also the day the Independent Liverpool membership card was released, giving him a glimpse into the world of work and on the road to entrepreneurship.
Since that day, the Independent Liverpool platform has been growing, championing local businesses online and through events to the eventual opening of the Baltic Market, Liverpool’s first street food market.
He says of his time at University: “With your university studies you have to be very disciplined - it’s not like in school where you have teachers on your back and pushing you to get stuff done, you are left to your own devices. Working independently has definitely helped with owning my own companies as nobody is telling me what to do or directing me… it’s very tempting to press the snooze button and give myself the day off!”
During the pandemic Independent Liverpool had to become very inventive figuring out how they could help and support local businesses during the crisis. “The hospitality sector took a big hit so there was incredible ingenuity with the independent business community, whether that be launching home cooking kits, zooms tasting sessions and so on.” Independent Liverpool made sure they were shouting from the rooftops about the ventures using their social media channels and their website.
Oliver is focusing on another venture, this time with his brother by his side. They have just signed a lease for their first coffee shop in Lark Lane, an area familiar with students. Press Bros Coffee will be opening its doors in 2021 and we wish it every success