Cambridge Cluster

Image via WikipediaOut of Eden, Lyon Outdoor and the largest of them all Lakeland are all passive equity companies with the latter in the second generation family control.

The Internet has made it possible to build these companies far from big centres.  However if you start-up in a beautiful small village like Dent, there will come a time when you will have to move to Tebay to cope with the large artics which Lyon Outdoor has had to do.  Also all three companies are re-sellers of other peoples ideas and products.

I met Ian Hartley of Out of Eden high up on the Langdales where he was seeking inspiration for the next stageof the companies growth.  And where I sprained my ankle slipping on a wet stone.  Each company now has experienced management some of whom may go and join another company in the area or even start on their own.  With passive equity companies, how can the companies offer a stake in the growth of the business without opening up the share register?  It is easier with the Cambridge Cluster and active equity companies where everyone is a winner in the business plan!