An inventor on the up and up

Remember Rob Law? He was that clever chap who invented Trunki, the suitcase for kids that doubled up as a nifty piece of transport. Well, with the Orange sponsored National Business Awards coming up at the beginning of next month, and since Rob was a winner last year, we thought we'd have a catch up...

How did you get the idea for Trunki?
It happened in 1997 at university, while searching for a creative solution to a design brief. Uninspired by the luggage department in a Newcastle shop, I found myself in the toy section looking at ride-on toys. It was the Eureka moment.

You took a serious drubbing in the Dragon’s Den. We're guessing no regrets now?!
No regrets at all. It was enlightening and certainly a great publicity vehicle, but not without its risks. Audiences saw Dragon Richard Farleigh being towed successfully on Trunki, before Theo Paphitis forcibly wrenched a clasp from poor Trixie, as he looked to the camera in mock horror!

Trixie Trunki with her blue friend, Terence

What was it like to win an award at the Orange sponsored NBAs last year?
I was named Credit Suisse Entrepreneur of the Year for the South West. It was a great experience and it’s a very positive business stamp of approval to be proud of! As the main sponsor, Orange had made me aware of the awards when I took part in the ‘I am’ adverts.

And what was it like starring in the ads? Did you enjoy it?
It was an amazing experience. My family, friends and business associates were involved in filming, which was fantastic to see when the show reel went online.

Fame at last: Rob's very swish show reel

Did featuring in the I Am adverts help raise the profile of Trunki?
It was incredible! The Trunki profile was seen, heard and watched, all in one campaign. It had a massive impact creating awareness of the brand and the story so far. It was a privilege to be involved.

Who or what is it that inspires you to keep on inventing?
My business icon is Steve Jobs and Thomas Heatherwick is my creative hero; he just keeps creating awe inspiring sculptures that function as architecture, products and art. Creating products that make traveling with children easy and enjoyable is really rewarding.

And what can we look forward to next from you?
BoostAPak! It’s a backpack that doubles up as a car booster seat, as well as being useful on buses, trains and the cinema for a better view. It’s scheduled to launch in spring 2010. Oh, and we’re growing fast, so in the new year we’re moving office and planning to take on 20 more staff during 2010.

Great stuff from Rob. We rather think he should start making Trunkis for grown ups ;)

(And we'll be keeping an eye on who wins this year at the Orange sponsored NBAs.)