A YOUNG employee-owned business that creates bespoke Volkswagen campervans has seen a surge of 11% in productivity in its first few months and revenue on track to rise by 23% this year to £2.7 million.

Jerba Campervans, which is based in North Berwick, was founded by husband-and-wife team and directors Simon Poole and Cath Brookes in 2005.

It only became fully-owned by its 15-strong workforce in January this year.

From its humble beginnings, the company hopes to complete 55 vehicles this year.

Jerba, which is recognised by Volkswagen as a registered vehicle body builder, specialises in luxury conversions of the VW Transporter T6, and sources its clients from the German giant.

It then transforms the vans into discreet and stylish homes on wheels.

Poole, who previously had roles with Cancer Research UK and card game manufacturer John Waddingtons, believes the Jerba business model has far-reaching benefits.

“This is a rural firm and we employ people who love what they do,” he said.

“As a result, we’ve benefited from amazing loyalty from those who have been instrumental in building the business.

“Becoming employee-owned was simply the right thing to do both morally and practically.

“It is safe to say that it has truly energised the place. Everyone is acutely aware of the importance of minimising waste and tackling projects thoughtfully and creatively – as it impacts the profit-sharing bonus scheme. As you may imagine, that is having a real impact on the business too – and our productivity and growth figures for the year demonstrate what can be achieved with employee ownership.”

Before creating the firm the couple had spent a decade owning and hiring campervans in countries all around the world.

During that time they believed they could improve or adapt the designs to become more user-friendly, creating a significantly better lifestyle experience.

To become employee-owned, Poole and Brookes transferred all shares into the Jerba Campervans Trust.

The trust board comprises one employee appointed by them, one elected employee and a person independent to the business, which, in Jerba’s case, is an external accountant.

Jerba’s co-directors report to the board, which ensures that the business is being run for the benefit of the employees.

The couple’s shares will be paid back in a share of company profits over the coming years.

Jerba said it prides itself on its unique brand and its position in the market, delivering a premium product with top-notch customer service, while remaining attainable for its passionate client base.

The company produces six models, including short and long wheelbase versions of the Volkswagen T6.

It also regularly consults with its clients to customise around their individual requirements.

Jerba’s high-quality craftsmanship has also led to various innovations, including its patented pop-top roof which features a canvas interior.

Considerable thought is also given to safety, with all vehicles adhering to current European safety standards.

Some customised vehicles only have the European standard Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) – which takes around two hours and does not include physical testing.

However, Jerba Campervans are all put through the most rigorous tests available to achieve the enhanced next level – Whole Vehicle Type Approval.

All Jerba vehicles carry National Caravan Council approval, which also covers the accommodation aspects of campervan safety.

Poole added: “Being employee-owned is benefitting every aspect of the business.

“Our staff are just that bit more invested in what we do – and the newfound wind in their sails doesn’t seem to be letting up.

“We’ve got a solid team who understand that the quality and safety of our products is what helps Jerba stand apart from a number of other companies out there.

“We don’t cut corners when it comes to ensuring our designs are safe for their users.”