Former sales manager at Greentrees Caravanstore launches his own business

James Brown, who was the sales manager for the caravan business in Dereham, has opened the Caravan Hub across the road. 

As a first-time business owner, he described launching the start-up on Hurn Road as “quite stressful”. 

Caravan Hub stocks and sells caravans (Image: James Brown) He said: “It went from zero to 100 really quickly because I’ve had to learn the admin side of running a business in addition to selling caravans.”

Although its first week was challenging, he sold two caravans in that time and has had help balancing the books from his wife, Rebecca.

“She’s learning to manage the accounts and has been doing really great. 

“I think we’re handling it well. Rather than settle down to watch Netflix in the evenings, we’re learning to crunch numbers instead.” 

Mr and Mrs Brown are both learning to manage the admin and accounts of the business (Image: James Brown) The thirty-four-year-old has 14 years of experience in the industry, after starting behind the till at Greentrees Caravanstore. 

He then worked his way up in the business and became sales manager before his bosses, Neil and Justyn Greentree, decided to retire and closed down the store. 

Mr Brown said: “Neil and Justyn have been very supportive and a great source of advice when I’ve needed it.” 

Owners of Greentrees Caravanstore announced it will be closing at the end of October (Image: Greentrees Caravanstore) Now his own boss, Mr Brown has found the milestone as a first-time business owner both exciting and daunting. 

He said: “It definitely has its rewarding moments but it’s also worrying because I’ve got two young kids to look after.

“But I believe when you’re given a good opportunity in life, you’ve got to take it.” 

The business has been commended on its stock of caravans (Image: James Brown) Customers have praised Mr Brown’s efforts and commended him on his stock of caravans.

He said: “Some of their comments have been brilliant. They’ve said we’ve got nice stock and we’re well prepared so that’s really encouraging.” 

Mr Brown will continue to maintain the business’ standard and keep the prices of his caravans competitive.