Still a way to go for Latics Travel idea

A TALENTED student from Royton has set up a fledgling business designed to get more Latics fans to away games.

Athletic supporter Adam Chapman (20) has established Latics Travel under the aegis of Dragons’ Den star Peter Jones’s Enterprise Academy, within the Oldham College.

Every student on the one-year course has to set up and run a real business, and Adrian has turned his passion into what he hopes will become his livelihood.

“That’s a while away yet,” he concedes, but continued: “I really believe we have a good basis here.

“Latics took 935 fans to a game at Tranmere this season, but only 30 travelled on official transport from the club. If we can harness that support through a Latics business model, then the fans and the club can benefit. All profits will be channelled into the Youth Development Programme, which continues to be the lifeblood of the club, so every fan going to an away game via Latics Travel will be helping the club directly.”

Adam developed his business model with tutors and mentors on the pioneering course at TOC and then approached the football club. At a meeting with chief executive Alan Hardy and commercial manager Jenny Warburton he outlined his plans and received enthusiastic support.

He plans to set up booking hubs — pubs or social clubs — in every area of Oldham to make booking easy for fans. Adam continued: “The scheme is still in the early stages and I have many other ideas for next season. This season is all about getting the brand known and increasing the fanbase. For instance, I am looking for businesses to offer discounts to fans using our travel service.

“I want people to follow the service on social media — @laticstravel — so I can be in constant contact and make sure they know about any deals we have on offer.”