Dunfermline woman, Michaela Tabb is not only the world’s first female snooker referee but is a very talented businesswoman too. As the owner of family-run business, Blackball Tables, she is a major distributor of pool tables and accessories.
The company was established in July 2018 and has since expanded to serve multiple segments in the market both in the UK and abroad, including New Zealand. With an increased mixture of direct customers, corporate and trade clients, Michaela sought assistance from Business Gateway Fife to help formulate a growth strategy for the business.
Her adviser, Samir Rhazali, was able to give access to a wide range of advice and support from Expert Help for accounting, planning and budgeting along with Digital Boost to develop the website and social media platforms. Samir commented, “After three years of running the business alone, Michaela was struggling to meet demand after the country went into Lockdown as there was a big increase in the domestic market too. She now has a five-year growth strategy in place which will allow her to continue to develop and grow the business.”
Michaela said, “I am very grateful for the support of Business Gateway Fife and the valuable advice given to me by Samir. We have been very lucky that because of demand, the factory only stayed closed for three weeks in Lockdown and delivery drivers were able to continue to work. We are now expanding into the rental market which is proving popular with clubs and pubs using coin operated tables in their premises. It is so rewarding to be able to continue work in the industry sector that made my sports career.”
During her career in as a Scottish professional referee in the sports of snooker and pool, Michaela established significant milestones for female officials in professional cue sports beginning in pool, where she officiated at top tournaments. She qualified in 2001 to referee on the World Snooker Tour and went on to become the sport’s highest profile female referee, officiating on tour for 14 years. She is the only woman ever to referee the World Snooker Championship final, which she did in both 2009 and 2012.
Whether thinking of starting a business or looking to grow or sustain an existing business, contact Business Gateway Fife on 01592 858333 for a variety of advice and support or visit www.businessgatewayfife.com