Each week, we ask small businesses key questions.
Here we speak to Marsha Doran, the owner of ECO CUP ADS, which she runs from her home in Portlethen
How and why did you start in business?
The idea came while I was sat in a famous chain coffee shop looking at their cup and thinking: “Why do they still use plastic cups?”
It really annoyed me that for a corporation so big, there was no excuse for them not to use biodegradable products.
Also, I thought: “Why is there nothing to read on the cup?”
This gave me the idea to use branded coffee cups for advertising by giving the public something to read on a cup.
The cups would be 100% biodegradable to help reduce the use of plastic. Details on them would let people know about brands and services in a unique and innovative way.
How did you get to where you are today?
I have always loved learning but hadn’t studied since completing my master’s degree in investment and financial management in 1998.
In 2017 I decided to return to college to study for a Higher National Certificate in advertising and public relations.
The course was incredibly challenging, with all the exams and assignments, but even more so in that I had three children who still needed their mum.
After investing in website development and an initial batch of ECO CUP ADS-branded cups, these were then distributed around my network of catering vans and coffee shops to let people know of this new way to advertise.
Who helped you?
My husband, Charlie, is my biggest supporter and has been unbelievably encouraging. He continues to help me keep going when it’s tough and is the first to praise my successes.
I have also received help from Mentors, Aberdeen Business Network, Ideas in Partnership, Business Gateway and the Federation of Small Businesses.
They have all been instrumental in helping with connections and business development and giving me the confidence to push forward with my venture.
What has been your biggest mistake?
I am far too tough on myself, and need to allow myself time to grow and accept that I can’t do everything straight away. I want to get a better work-life balance, and put less pressure on myself.
What is your greatest achievement?
I have recently found out that I am a finalist in two awards, including the SME Scottish Business Awards in the category of new business of the year and the Elevator Awards (most promising new business).
I am excited and honoured that I have even been nominated.
If you were in power in government, what would you change?
I would invest more money into supplying schools with free juices and smoothies which would help create a positive mindset towards consuming fruit and vegetables, promoting a healthy lifestyle from a young age.
What do you still hope to achieve?
I would like ECO CUP ADS to be an established brand in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, and expand my business across Scotland and UK-wide.
The goal is to work with as many events companies as possible as there are so many opportunities where branded cups can be used to increase their exposure in a very different way.
What do you do to relax?
I used to be a tennis coach and try to stay involved. My chill zone is the tennis court. When the weather is not favourable for tennis, I relax by doing jigsaws or heading to the spa at my local gym.
What are you currently reading, listening to or glued to on the TV?
I am currently watching Game of Thrones and also love watching sports including tennis and darts, which drives my family insane.
What do you waste your money on?
I am not into make-up, but as soon as the latest nail varnish becomes available I have to buy it.
How would your friends describe you?
My WhatsApp research revealed that, apparently, I am attentive, motivated, determined, thoughtful, adventurous, honest and overly competitive.
What would your enemies say about you?
I don’t know if I have any, but I think they would say I need to stop talking.
What do you drive and dream of driving?
I drive a BMW 2 Series and my dream is a BMW i8 as it’s an environment-friendly sports car.