Sweet Taste of Success

A Kenilworth man is enjoying the sweet taste of success after experiencing the highs and lows of the redundancy rollercoaster.

Mark Radburn, a former Drayton Manor Theme Park events manager, has opened the town’s first confectionery store after being made redundant by his previous employer.

The 55-year-old has launched The Kenilworth Sweet Shop on Warwick Road and he is now looking forward to an exciting future, both for him and the town, after his shop became one of four independent stores to open in the area recently.

Mark Radburn, owner of The Kenilworth Sweet Shop, with Jo Leppard, a consultant at HB&O.

After speaking to his wife and friends about investing in the shop, Mark Radburn enlisted the help of Leamington-based financial experts Harrison Beale and Owen (HB&O).

He said: “I have lived in Kenilworth all my life and after discussions with my wife, Sandra, we felt what the town needed was an old fashioned sweet shop that sold sweets in jars.

“It has been very well received by the residents so far and everybody seems very supportive.

“We approached HB&O on the advice of friends who are also clients.

“They have been great in terms of providing advice to help us set-up as well as assistance with our accounts and tax information.”

The shop has taken delivery of its Christmas themed products as it prepares for the busy festive period.

Jo Leppard, a consultant at HB&O, said: “Mark’s story should act as an inspiration to anyone who has suffered redundancy as a result of the harsh economic climate.

“He has demonstrated that it is possible to bounce back and that it can open the door to other possibilities.

“We are delighted to be involved with his new venture and we are confident it will continue to go from strength to strength.”