Year 13 Nelson College students Logan Schokking, Harry Fleming, Mason Lund and Tom Thornalley are the regional champs for The Lion Foundation Young Enterprise Scheme. Absent: Finn Restieaux. Photo: Kate Russell.

No limits for college business group

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A business idea prompted by a failed driving test has seen a group of Nelson College students win a regional enterprise competition, as well as secure a contract with one of the country’s biggest roading maintenance contractors.

‘LimitLess’ were crowned the Top of the South champs in The Lion Foundation Young Enterprise Scheme last week for their world-first temporary road sign cover.

Member Logan Schokking says the idea for the ‘nanosign’ was born after a friend failed his driving test because he didn’t see a speed sign.

“We brainstormed ideas around that and figured out there aren’t many solutions to temporary signage. We looked at a few materials that we could use and ended up finding nano technology.”

The nanosign is a durable, NZTA-approved sign cover that can stick to a range of surfaces without coming off. This means road maintenance contractors can manage speeds through road work sites and improve safety when temporary speed limits are required.

“We ordered a small bit of it and it worked out great, so we started expanding on that,” Logan says.

The cost-effective product has worked so well that the team have signed off on a contract with Fulton Hogan.

“Last week they sent us a formal letter saying they agree to partner with us,” says member Tom Thornalley.

“They manufacture, distribute and procure the product so all we do is sales and invoicing and processing. We estimate we are going to sell thousands in the coming months.”

Their product has also reached Australia, where it is currently being tested.

“I don’t think any of us really expected it to get this far, we are really proud of it,” says Logan.

The team will now head to Wellington on 4 December to compete in the dragon’s den-style national final against 21 regional champions from across the country.