Dave Cole: The Passion and Drive Behind Vale Irrigation

In this month’s spotlight, we’re revisiting Dave Cole, the entrepreneur behind Vale Irrigation, to delve deeper into the motivations and values that have shaped his journey. From humble beginnings to a thriving business at Blackminster Business Park, Dave’s story is one of determination, passion, and a steadfast commitment to his craft.

Dave left school at 16 and with the help of family connections, began working in the irrigation sector. Over the next decade, he immersed himself in every facet of the business, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the industry. Eager to grow, he sought new opportunities to broaden his expertise, building relationships with a diverse client base and honing his technical knowledge. These experiences paved the way for him to launch Vale Irrigation—a venture as ambitious and focused as the man himself.

Since its inception, Vale Irrigation has carved out a niche in the market, offering specialised products to the agricultural, horticultural, and plumbing sectors. Dave’s passion for the industry shines through in his work, and it’s this enthusiasm that sets him apart. His innovative solutions and honest advice have earned him the trust of his customers, many of whom return repeatedly, confident they’re in reliable hands.

But success hasn’t come without its challenges. The early days were tough, with unpredictable weather and significant investment in stock presenting hurdles. However, Dave’s determination and a hands-on approach to marketing helped him weather the storm. As he puts it, “When I have a passion, I want to make sure it works.”

One of the company’s proudest milestones came just six months after launching: moving from Dave's home, where stock was stored in a shed, to a dedicated office unit with storage at Blackminster Business Park. This move not only enhanced the business’s efficiency but also reinforced its reputation as a professional and trustworthy operation.

Vale Irrigation continues to grow, with the recent addition of Water Tanks Midlands —a business focused exclusively on selling water tanks and pumps to local clients. This offshoot has boosted awareness and contributed to the company’s rapid growth.

Dave’s motivation stems from setting and achieving goals, which he finds deeply rewarding. His long-term vision includes expanding the business further by building a strong in-house team and offering dedicated delivery services. Ultimately, his goal is to step back from day-to-day operations, allowing him to spend more time with his family, including his partner Tracey, who currently works two days a week in the business. Dave credits his family as his greatest source of inspiration and strength.

For those dreaming of starting their own business, Dave offers sage advice: “Don’t run before you can walk. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and it’s better to take your time, be patient, and achieve strong growth than to expand rapidly without a solid foundation.”

Dave’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and building trust with your community. As Vale Irrigation continues to flourish, one thing is clear: Dave’s dedication to his craft and his customers ensures the business is set for a bright future.

To find out more about Vale Irrigation and view their full range of products, visit the website at the link below.

Visit Vale Irrigation