Barnsley College student Layton sets the tone for his new business

@BarnsleyCollege student Layton Yates has turned his passion for drawing, creating art and becoming a musician into a business venture, with the help provided by iTrust, the College’s business start-up programme exclusively for students.  

Layton’s business, Pitz Prints, was born when he realised he could promote his music by printing designs onto clothing and sending his customers a free CD full of his own music, with all orders over £25.  

Layton, who studies BA (Hons) Popular Music at Barnsley College Higher Education, said:

“My interest in the printing industry started about two years ago and I quickly decided I wanted to create my own business. I’ve been employed in different industries in the past, and I was familiar with some printing equipment and I enjoyed using it.  

“I was inspired by the idea of bringing something new and different to Barnsley and I have been seriously working on my business venture for about six months. I have recently injected more funding into my equipment and stock and I’m slowly building up a client base and focusing on promotion.” 

Layton received a grant from iTrust totalling £250 which allowed him to purchase an automated cutting machine ensuring the cutting and printing process reduced the lead time for his customers. 

Barnsley College’s Enterprise department is home to the iTrust initiative, a joint venture between the College, The Barnsley Chronicle and The Business Village, which supports students interested in starting up a business in Barnsley. Students who choose to receive support from iTrust, will have access to an array of information and guidance such as mentoring from industry specialists and local businesses and financial investments. 

Whilst studying Layton has had the opportunity to discuss artist merchandise in his lectures as part of his Popular Music qualification. Studying from home has also allowed him to work on his online marketing including building websites and social media and invest time into using graphic design software as well as research fabrics and clothing materials that he can use. 

Jess Widdowson, Enterprise Team Leader at Barnsley College, added:

“Layton has a clear interest and passion for music and print, which marry together to be a potentially large and successful business. Having already identified his target market, Layton is well on his way to gaining a substantial amount of clients. 

“The papercutting machine, which has been partially funded by the iTrust scheme, will make a real difference to the quality of his products, the speed of completion and his profits. I am looking forward to continuing to support Layton.”