Eat Local
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Luke Stronach |
Luke Stronach had completed a double degree (Finance and Economics) at Newcastle University and was working in banking in Melbourne. He soon learned that he did not want to be just a number in a large organization, he wanted to own one. Luke started searching for a unique business idea that would grow into a large company and get him to the point where he was financially flexible. |
A food lover, Luke stumbled across the idea whilst working late one evening. "I was very hungry and craved something healthy that I could order now and pick up on my way home from work. To my surprise there was no online service that provided every restaurant's up-to-date menus and details." Thus www.eatlocal.com.au was conceived and Luke returned home to Newcastle to turn his new idea into reality.
The Hunter Business Centre also saw the potential of his idea, and Luke was accepted onto their NEIS program, completing the course by correspondence. Luke credits the training received through NEIS for helping his business idea to grow.
"Although I knew that I had a unique idea," said Luke, "NEIS forced me to put all of my ideas and figures into a business plan, which helped the business to develop even further. NEIS taught me things my degrees didn't, it got me focused on the basic business structures - it was the perfect way to get my business started."
At the completion of his training, Luke was confident in his product and his ability to run his company. He commenced NEIS and found that the next stage of the program - the NEIS allowance was of great assistance.
"Financially, NEIS allowed me to dedicate 100% of my time to the business. Without the program this wouldn't have been possible, especially considering that it took six months from inception to generate any income," said Luke.
He also found the mentoring component of NEIS to be valuable during this time. "The mentoring program was fantastic!" he added.
"The mentors were very friendly and always willing to help in any way. Each face-to-face meeting allowed me to reassess the progression of the business and to get help in any aspects that were struggling. For example, during the launch of our Newcastle portal, the mentors helped me to determine the best and most cost-effective ways to advertise."
Officially launched in September 2005, Eat Local offers a comprehensive, online restaurant database and dining guide including menus, maps, photographs and detailed restaurant information.
In addition to this, you can print free vouchers to your favourite restaurants, local secrets (deals and cheap nights), read Meet the Chef interviews and browse industry classifieds such as Restaurants for Sale, Employment Notices and Equipment for Sale.
Now at the completion of his time on NEIS, Eat Local has achieved a wide market recognition and based on Hunter Business Centre Research is the "first recall" for consumers when seeking restaurant information. Initially covering the Newcastle and Hunter Region, he has expanded to include the Central Coast and has capital cities around Australia squarely in his sights. His website allows customers to view over 1000 menus, to find information on chefs, a daily "food for thought" column and much more.
The idea has evolved substantially since conception and will continue to grow, following the path of Eat Local's initial goal to be the most comprehensive, informative restaurant information source available. So if you are looking for somewhere to dine, take a look at www.eatlocal.com.au. Menus for your area may be there...or if not, appearing soon thanks to an entrepreneur called Luke Stronach and NEIS!