Mark Smithson of Marks Electrical

In the Company of Mavericks

This episode is made possible by Progressive Equity Research, providing freely available engaging research & opportunities to hear from a wide range of small & mid-cap UK-listed companies.

I am joined by private investor Mark Atkinson, host of the Desert Island Investor Podcast, for a conversation with Mark Smithson, the founder and CEO of Marks Electrical.

Marks Electrical is an AIM-listed online retailer of household electrical products providing nationwide next-day delivery of a wide range of household appliances.

Mark’s straightforward approach to his business is based on an enduring work ethic, deep domain knowledge and a commitment to business efficiency based on common sense and the application of technology.

In today’s episode, we follow the story of an entrepreneur who started selling reconditioned second-hand gas cookers in the 1980s to become CEO of a listed business with a shareholding worth over £60m.

Mark talks openly about the challenges he’s faced and the mistakes he has made.

However, armed with a “never give up” attitude, he sees his business as well positioned to grow market share in the competitive space for household appliances. Mark epitomises raw entrepreneurial spirit, and his story has lessons for us all.