Industry Insights: The outdoor activity industry

This month we caught up with Jim, founder of Channel Group in Minehead, to hear his advice on how to run a thriving outdoor activities company.

Learn more about Jim’s outdoor activity company in this short video.

While teaching science and outdoor education in schools, Jim realised that there were things he wanted to do that were best achieved outside of the classroom. So, in 2012, Jim and his long-time friend Darren followed their hearts and started Channel Group, an adventurous outdoor activities business based in Minehead. “It’s the California of West Somerset.” says Jim.

Today, the passionate team use only the highest quality equipment and carefully planned programmes to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. From stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, to target sports and power kiting, Jim and his team are specialists in their field.

Watch our short video to find out more about the outdoor activity industry:

When it comes to delivering high-quality outdoor lessons, this is what Jim thinks are the key considerations:

1. Deliver great training. The most important thing is to focus all of your attention and energy on the people you’re training – they’re the reason why you do what you do.
2. Focus on what you’re good at. Instead of trying to do everything yourself, stick to where your talents are and outsource help for the rest. You don’t want to start waking up and groaning about what you need to do – it should never be like that.
3. It’s all about the customer experience. Don’t bring the troubles from your day to work. No matter what it takes, always remember that you’re doing this for your customers, so their experience should be your main priority.

In case you missed it, last month we heard John Henry’s insights into growing a consulting business. Hear what he has to say in this short video.

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