Diana Sutherland moved from Sheffield to Wales to fulfil her dream of running a café near to the beach. A self-proclaimed holiday enthusiast, Diana’s coastal café bar allows her to be her own boss in a beautiful location.
Harbour Way is the perfect location for beachgoers, providing delicious locally sourced treats and chilled drinks just five minutes away. The premises was originally a café, but Diana has completely renovated and secured a full license for alcohol.
Initially planned to launch on Easter Saturday, the opening was delayed until July due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Back in Sheffield, I ran two brewery-owned pubs. This gave me great experience for the day-to-day running of my business, but I no longer have the support of a larger chain.
Harbour Way is completely self-funded and I’ve carried out all of the refurbishment myself. This means that it is vital that I keep business expenses as low as possible to boost profits.
I hadn’t given much thought to card payments before my original opening date and was going to launch as a cash-only business.
During the delay caused by the pandemic, I realised how important card payments would be. However, as a new business with no financial backing, I was wary of signing a long and expensive contract.
I spoke to lots of merchant services providers to see what my options were. I was also approached by my business bank account provider, but I made an instant decision after speaking to my Handepay advisor.
He had no hidden agenda and provided useful advice in a friendly and personal manner. Plus, Handepay provided one of the best propositions on the market, I was shocked by how expensive some of the other quotes were!
I completed the simple application process over the phone, and within five days I was set up ready to accept card payments with my new terminal.
My revised launch date was a success, and my customers were thrilled that they could pay using cards. Many businesses in the area only offer basic terminals, which don’t accept all cards.
The COVID-19 pandemic completely changed my plans for how to run my business. Here in Wales, we’re adhering to government guidelines, with social distancing in place. My Handepay card terminal allows me to accept contactless payments, improving safety for both me and my customers.
My customers can pay using whichever card they like, with AMEX cards being popular with holidaymakers. I haven’t had to turn anyone away, which makes my sales process really positive.
I’ve used card machines in my previous roles, but as a business owner there are new functions that I needed to use. I wasn’t sure how to complete my end of day settlement but gave my advisor a call and he was able to walk me through it.
The service I’ve received from Handepay and my advisor has been brilliant. Everything has been so simple, honest and transparent. If I ever need any advice, I know he is only a phone call away.
Handepay enabled me to start taking card payments at a great price, allowing me to launch my business safely during the pandemic!"
