EACH week the Evening Times will turn the spotlight on one of the dozens of local businesses determined to succeed.

They are the future for Glasgow and the west of Scotland's economy and are working hard to achieve success in the face of continuing economic hardship. Many businesses are struggling to take off because of the economic downturn, and this column will offer advice for potential start-ups and small businesses.

Each company will answer the same questions about their business and their answers will appear in the Evening Times each Wednesday.

This week we highlight Christine McGrory of The Key

What does your business do?

The Key is a personal and organisational development business. It teaches people how to create a purposeful, healthy, happy and abundant life.

The company now has franchises in Glasgow, Edinburgh and my first Master Franchise London.

The Key Corporate is a creative visionary and leadership programme with clients such as Barclays Wealth, Scottish Water, etc.

Where are you based?

We are based in Glasgow city centre in the award- winning designer Society M business space.

HOW DID YOU START?

I started the company after recognising a need for small business owners to get clear about their personal and business vision, how to give it focus, energy and attention and most importantly remove any limiting beliefs that may stop them from achieving their ambitions.

WHAT IS YOUR

BACKGROUND?

I am a scientist. Having also successfully achieved an MSc in Leadership I love supporting people on personal and organisational leadership.

I had my first entrepreneurial business when I set up a network of childcare centres in and around Glasgow to support working parents.

This led me to understand the importance of systemising your business and hence the idea for creating a franchise network with the Key.

WHAT IS YOUR TOP TIP?

Vision and purpose. When things get tough you stay energised by focusing on your vision.

When you understand your purpose your work becomes meaningful and you are driven by making an important contribution to your clients, the community, the world.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN BUSINESS?

The Key was launched in March 2010.

DID YOU GET HELP SETTING UP?

East Renfrewshire Council believed in me and my vision and helped me access a West of Scotland start-up loan. Also I was very fortunate to attract the attention of Channel 4 Secret Millionnaire Dawn Gibbins, who loved my business vision and matched this loan.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST BUSINESS DEAL?

When I sold my first franchise to Lauren Taylor in Glasgow and also when I delivered my first Corporate Key event to Barclays Wealth.

WHO IS YOUR MENTOR INSPIRATION?

Anita Roddrick for her ethical approach to business with a heart and purpose

WHERE DO YOU PLAN YOUR BUSINESS IN FIVE YEARS TIME?

My daughter has just launched The Key New Generation in primary and secondary schools, and I am about to publish The Key Book called 'Grace.'

We are looking to attract amazing franchisees to work with us in London and then further expansion across the UK.

CONTACTS:

Christine McGrory

Tel: 0844 209 2333

Create@unlock-the-key.co.uk

www.unlockthekey.com

NEXT STEPS

We run free introductory events each month in Glasgow for people who are curious about The Key.

Next event is on Thursday March 13, at Novotel, Pitt Street, Glasgow, from 6.30pm-8.30pm