December Talk with Kyle Raffo

IT’S December and 2021 is drawing to a close. What have been your highlights in business this year? What milestones have come and gone? What’s your vision for 2022? Today we're talking to Kyle Raffo who is the managing director of Embello, the UK’s No1 printing, promotional merchandise & branded workwear specialists. The company is based in Tamworth and works with companies and organisations across the UK.

It’s December – is this a busy time for your business? 
It’s a super busy time! We’ve been known to print over 1 million Christmas cards in December alone. Our team and machines are working to the max.

Christmas is coming – what does Christmas mean for you? 
The most important part of Christmas, for me, is to spend time with family and friends.

What’s on Santa’s List for your business in 2022? 
We’re moving into our purpose-built offices and production facility in January which is really exciting for me and my team and we have plans for further growth.

And what’s on your list personally? 
Plenty of much-needed supplies ready for my exhibition to Everest!

What has been your greatest business lesson this year? 
Change can often be scary. However, the biggest lesson has been that it doesn't need to be something we’re frightened of. 

Over the past year I’ve learnt that it’s an opportunity to build on your skills and take on an exciting challenge.

What have been your business highlights in 2021? 
There are so many!

• Growing #TeamEmbello by doubling the number of colleagues within the business.
• Taking on the challenge of finding a location for our purpose-built offices and production facility.
• Working with some of the world's leading brands; from Amazon to Spotify.
• Starting my own journey as an inspirational speaker.
• Continue giving back as a brand, and as an individual.
• Looking for interesting businesses - and people - to invest in and support as they start out in business.

What have been your personal highlights in 2021? 

• Ticking off a bucket-list activity each month!
• Proudly supporting the NHS in its fight against COVID19, as my work as a paramedic.

Is ‘giving back’ important to you, your business or organisation? Why? 
Giving back has always been a hugely important part of my life, and a key value of our business. Our simple aim is to create a ripple of positive impact which inspires others to do the same.

If you are planning to recruit in 2022 – share a little of your hopes around the growth of your team. We have ambitious plans at Embello! In fact, we’re aiming to double our team and invest in several new apprentices.

What would be your best piece of advice for anyone in business for 2022? 
Fail fast and often. Remember to approach every failure as a valuable lesson in business.

And finally:
Happy Christmas everyone and wishing us all a prosperous, healthy and caring new year! 

For more information visit www.embello.co.uk