Australian entrepreneur Robbie Allison has swapped Sydney for The EpiCentre in Haverhill for six months as he takes a step back from the day-to-day running of his successful vending business, QualityVend to explore new technology and rethink how he can grow the company.
Robbie, who has run his vending business for 14 years and now employs 30 full-time staff across Australia, is using his time in the UK to research the latest developments in vending and retail – particularly artificial intelligence and the emerging “smart fridge” market.
With his English wife originally from Haverhill, Robbie and his two children, aged nine and six, are spending time with family while he works remotely and explores opportunities to connect with vending operators and businesses in the Cambridge area.
A particular focus is the UK’s strength in retail innovation. Robbie admits he has developed an “undying love” for Tesco and Sainsbury’s, regularly visiting stores to see the latest grab-and-go concepts and technologies.
He has taken space at The EpiCentre, that gives him 24-hour access to his colleagues in Australia, an essential benefit given the time difference.
Helen Earl, Centre Manager at The EpiCentre, said: “Robbie’s story demonstrates that The EpiCentre now has a truly international reach. For businesses considering a short-term project in the UK, exploring the market or thinking about establishing a UK presence, flexible office arrangements provide an ideal opportunity to test the waters, build connections and understand the market before making longer-term commitments.”
Away from his business, Robbie is also involved with Australian charity Black Roo, which works on practical programmes around employment, education and community support. Among its initiatives is Second Chance for Change, supporting Indigenous people leaving incarceration into employment, alongside youth development and community projects.
For Robbie, stepping away is part of a deliberate growth strategy. “I don’t think you own a business until it can thrive and grow without you,” he said. “Sometimes you’ve got to slow down to go faster.”
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