West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper Sam Johnstone has invested in Lancashire-based tech start-up Kiistone.
Preston-born Johnstone was one of the early adopters of the Kiistone app, which enables tradespeople and customers to agree on job specifications and budgets before starting work.
The payment is then accepted and held independently of the largest escrow provider in Europe. The funds are then gradually transferred to the craftsman based on the successful completion of the work specified in consultation with the client.
Johnstone was asked to test the app during the complete renovation and expansion of his family home in Altrincham.
He was so impressed with the experience he now has as a shareholder in the company that wants to change the relationships between craft and customers.
Johnstone said, “When we were planning a major renovation of our single family home, including a full extension, all new bathrooms and a driveway, the project manager gave me the opportunity to test the app on the road.
“It seemed like a really good idea, so I was happy to give it a try. I have no idea about construction work, but breaking the project down into stages helped me keep track of progress and my budget.
“It was a great experience and I am confident that she can help others too. That is why I am very pleased to have joined the company as a shareholder.
“Not only do I think it’s a great app, but I believe it will really help change the way things are done for the better, for both the craft and the general public, who needs their services. “
In addition to the escrow solution, the app offers other functions that help craftsmen manage their projects, diary, cash flow, administration and communication.
It is also linked to the Kiistone Community website and provides industry news, guidance, and support for retailers and homeowners.
Kiistone Founder and CEO Tim Mullock said, “In my experience over the past twenty years being a UK trader myself, I’ve seen all the good things and bad things the industry has to offer and the biggest problem The biggest thing we still have today is a lack of trust between customers and retailers.
“High net worth individuals, in particular, are often confronted with the worst part of trading, where the assumption is that ‘money doesn’t matter’ and project budgets seem to get out of hand.
“The bad news for honest craftsmen is that these horror stories penetrate the public psyche, which leads to uncertainty in the working relationship between craftsmen and customers.
“Customers who have seen shows like Rogue Traders have begun to treat traders with a certain amount of suspicion. While there are undeniably some cowboys out there, professional craftsmen are often faced with the same brush, which doesn’t make for good customer relationships.
“On the other hand, even the best craftsmen can experience incomprehension or unrealistic expectations on the part of customers, especially if the specification sheet has been completed halfway through the work, which can lead to disputes about the final invoice.
“The Kiistone app was developed to provide a professional, both-party solution that provides customers with absolute clarity in all phases of the project and ensures fair payment for the work delivered.”
