Imran Savas

From Free School Meals to National Recognition: The Extraordinary Journey of a Modern British Entrepreneur

The Making of a Visionary 

Imran Savas was born into circumstances that would have deterred many from dreaming beyond their immediate reality. Raised by a single mother with no siblings, growing up in an ethnic working-class household, receiving free school dinners, and surrounded by an environment where successful role models who reflected his background were virtually non-existent, Imran's early years were marked by the financial challenges that countless working-class families navigate daily.

In this isolation, unable to resonate with traditional leadership figures and having no one to look up to who shared his experiences, Imran was forced to create his own type of leadership. This unique circumstance, rather than limiting him, became the catalyst for developing an authentic leadership style rooted in genuine understanding of struggle, resilience, and the power of self-determination.

Yet where others might have seen limitations, Imran saw possibility. Where society presented barriers, he envisioned bridges. His childhood, rather than becoming a source of limitation, would transform into the very foundation of his life's mission: proving that success isn't a privilege reserved for the few, but an achievable reality for anyone with courage to dream and persistence to persevere.

Founding Tape UK

In 2019, Imran made a decision that would define not only his future but the futures of countless entrepreneurs across the United Kingdom. Leaving behind the security of his stable job in Finance, he embarked on what many would consider an impossible mission: creating Tape UK completely from scratch—with no clients, no team, no outside investment, and no support network.

The inspiration for Tape UK emerged from a critical observation that would reshape how professional services are delivered to entrepreneurs. Imran identified that small business owners were drowning in administrative tasks, spending precious time on paperwork and processes rather than focusing on their core business passions and growth strategies. His solution was as elegant as it was revolutionary: a comprehensive professional services company that would handle everything entrepreneurs didn't have time for. Tape UK represents a fundamental reimagining of how professional services are delivered to entrepreneurs since 2019.

Identifying the Core Challenge

Imran recognised a critical pain point plaguing small business owners across the UK: entrepreneurs were drowning in administrative tasks that pulled them away from their core business activities. From tax returns and financial management to website creation and social media maintenance, these essential but time-consuming tasks were preventing business owners from focusing on what they do best—serving customers and driving growth.

The traditional solution—hiring in-house expert staff for specialised roles like accountants, designers, and web developers—presented its own challenge: costs running into thousands of pounds monthly in salaries and overheads, often beyond the reach of small businesses and startups.

The Tape UK Solution: An Integrated Approach

Imran's solution was simple yet powerfully effective: create an integrated, behind-the-scenes team that operates with three core principles—no freelancers, no guesswork, just reliable, high-quality support that adapts as businesses grow.

Unlike freelance platforms where quality varies wildly and consistency is a gamble, Tape UK employs a full-time team of experienced professionals working together in-house. This ensures unwavering quality standards across all projects, with every team member aligned to the same vision and excellence benchmarks. The company handles everything from logo design and website development to expert financial management and digital marketing—essentially providing entrepreneurs with a complete business support ecosystem.

The Economic Revolution

Perhaps most remarkably, Tape UK delivers this comprehensive support at a fraction of the cost of hiring full-time staff. By partnering with Tape UK, businesses gain access to an entire team of experts for less than the salary of a single in-house employee—a value proposition that has transformed how small businesses approach professional services.

Tape UK has seen remarkable growth year upon year, achieving this expansion with no outside investment and no partners—just Imran's vision, determination, and unwavering commitment to serving entrepreneurs. This organic growth demonstrates not only the strength of the business model but also Imran's ability to scale a company while maintaining complete control over its values and direction.

Beyond Service Provision: Strategic Partnership

Tape UK transcends the traditional service provider model by offering continuous expert guidance throughout each client's entire business journey. Rather than simply completing tasks, they serve as trusted advisors, focusing on long-term partnerships that evolve with their clients' needs. This relationship-centered approach ensures that as businesses grow and face new challenges, their support system grows with them.

This comprehensive system has liberated small business owners from essential but time-consuming functions, allowing them to focus on growth, innovation, and their unique value propositions. The model's effectiveness is evident in Tape UK's nationwide reach, exceptional client retention rates, and multiple industry accolades—proving that when you solve a fundamental problem with genuine innovation, success follows naturally.

Marketing with Purpose: Campaigns that Create Change

Tape UK's success extends beyond traditional business services through Imran's pioneering approach to purpose-driven campaigns that reflect his core values of community support, social justice, and inclusive representation. Since 2019, these campaigns have consistently demonstrated how businesses can use their creative capabilities to drive meaningful social change while supporting clients and highlighting important causes.

The company's inaugural #Individuality campaign in 2019 set the tone for everything that would follow, celebrating the rich tapestry of diversity that defines communities across the United Kingdom and amplifying voices often unheard. 

This was followed by the heartwarming #Family campaign during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, which told the story of an aspiring boxer persevering through crisis while supporting his family. 

The 2021 #Love campaign promoted the story a dynamic Liverpool couple whose passion for travel and adventure epitomised love without boundaries. 

The 2022 #Superheroes campaign reimagined business owners and entrepreneurs as society's true heroes, recognising that leadership requires the same courage and resilience as any comic book character. 

The 2024 #BeyondLabels campaign, showcased Stuart Fenney's journey from working in various kitchens to founding Nice Bites LTD, with Imran noting that "Stuart's journey exemplifies the power of determination and self-belief," drawing parallels to their shared working-class backgrounds. 

Most recently, the 2025 #breadtogether campaign celebrated Tape UK's sixth anniversary by highlighting Bread Together, a social enterprise, with the message that "when a loaf of bread breaks, it's meant to be shared," perfectly encapsulating Imran's philosophy that success is about lifting others.

These campaigns, along with community events demonstrate how Imran has consistently leveraged Tape UK's platform to challenge perceptions, celebrate diversity, support communities, and inspire others to pursue their dreams—proving that effective marketing doesn't just sell services, it can create authentic social impact.

Media and Social Impact

Imran's influence extends far beyond the boardrooms and balance sheets of business. His powerful presence as a public speaker has established him as one of Britain's most compelling voices for social change and entrepreneurial empowerment.

The TED Talk That Changed Everything: "Leaders of Tomorrow"

Imran was organically invited onto TEDx just 11 months into business with his powerful talk "Leaders of Tomorrow," which was propelled onto TED.com alongside luminaries like Mel Robbins, Bill Gates and Simon Sinek. This represents a watershed moment in his journey from entrepreneur to social advocate. The talk, focusing on developing future leaders, the importance of diversity, and the untapped potential that exists within every individual, resonated so powerfully that it earned placement on the global TED platform—a recognition reserved for ideas truly worth spreading.

The "Leaders of Tomorrow" talk encapsulates Imran's fundamental belief that leadership isn't about titles or positions, but about unlocking the potential within oneself and others. He emphasises that every human has an opportunity to lead and make a difference by taking the necessary steps forward, using their past experiences as valuable lessons rather than limitations, and becoming confident in their own skin regardless of their background.

Digital Influence and Social Advocacy

Through his Instagram platform @byimransavas, Imran has cultivated a substantial social media following that serves as more than just a business networking tool. His digital presence has become a powerful platform for social and political advocacy, where he shares insights, wisdom, and his unwavering commitment to making success accessible to all.

Imran's social media influence extends beyond inspiration to action. He consistently uses his platform to raise awareness about critical global issues, including humanitarian crises and social justice causes. His approach to digital advocacy demonstrates how business leaders can leverage their influence for positive social change.

Political Voice and Global Awareness

Beyond his business achievements, Imran has emerged as a respected political commentator, unafraid to tackle complex global issues and domestic political developments. His commitment to social justice was never more evident than during his acceptance speech for Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 at the MBCC Awards. In a moment that could have been solely about personal achievement, he chose to use his prominent platform to raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Palestine, demonstrating his commitment to using his influence to speak out on global issues that matter in a room notably full of celebrities, The Football Association, Amazon and other leading industry members.

His appearances on platforms like the Side by Side Podcast in 2025 reveal a leader unafraid to tackle complex political topics. During his 90-minute interview with host Kazi Shafiqur Rahman, Imran offered nuanced perspectives on the Middle East conflict, analysed UK political developments including The Reform Party and the concerning rise of far-right movements, and articulated practical approaches to fostering unity in an increasingly divided world. As a political commentator, he consistently advocates for policies and approaches that serve humanity and create opportunities for underrepresented communities.

Recognition 

Imran's journey has been marked by an extraordinary collection of accolades that reflect both his business excellence and social impact:

2025

• 'Entrepreneur of Excellence' - The National Diversity Awards 2025
• 'Most Inspirational Entrepreneur of the Year' - Multicultural Inspire Awards 2025

2024

• 'Entrepreneur of the Year' - MBCC Awards 2024 (defeating notable finalists including Gymshark founder Ben Francis MBE)
• 'Most Inspirational Person of the Year' - MBCC Awards 2024
• 'Entrepreneur of Excellence' - The National Diversity Awards 2024
• 'Positive Role Model of the Year for Race, Religion and Faith' - The National Diversity Awards 2024

2023

• Immortalised in Lego at the New Chester Market Display 2023 (a unique tribute reflecting his significant influence on his birth city)
• 'Entrepreneur of Excellence' - The National Diversity Awards 2023
• 'Positive Role Model of the Year for Race, Religion and Faith' - The National Diversity Awards 2023

2022

• The LDC Top 50 Most Ambitious Business Leaders 2022 (In Partnership with The Sunday Times)
• Great British Entrepreneur Awards 2022 (In Partnership with Starling Bank)
• 'Leader in Diversity, Inclusion and Fairness' - Inclusive Awards 2022
• 'Entrepreneur of the Year' - The MBCC Awards 2022
• 'Entrepreneur of Excellence' - The National Diversity Awards 2022
• 'Positive Role Model of the Year for Race, Religion and Faith' - The National Diversity Awards 2022

2021

• 'Most Influential Businessperson of the Year' - The MBCC Awards 2021

2020

• 'Positive Role Model of the Year for Race, Religion and Faith' - The National Diversity Awards 2020 (alongside Manchester United's Marcus Rashford during his influential free school dinner campaign during COVID-19)

Media Recognition

Imran's story has captivated media outlets and publications across the United Kingdom:

• UK News Group: Featured alongside celebrated entrepreneur Levi Roots as an inspiring UK entrepreneur
• Chester Standard: Coverage of his dual nominations for National Diversity Awards
• All About Cheshire Magazine (2023): In-depth interview discussing his journey to founding Tape UK
• The Cheshire Magazine (2022): Featured in the publication's historic 100th edition
• Cheshire Live (2022): Profiled as "Cheshire's Most Influential Businessman Championing Diversity" by reporter Daisy Herman
• Islam Channel's The Today Show (2022): Interviewed by Basit Khan about his inspirational journey

The See Me, Be Me Campaign

Imran's commitment to inspiring the next generation led to his participation in the Anthony Walker Foundation's "See Me, Be Me" campaign, created in partnership with Marks & Spencer. As one of nine leading figures from diverse professional backgrounds, Imran contributed to educational resources distributed to high schools across the country.

The campaign included a comprehensive booklet, accompanying videos, and dedicated training resources. Imran's contribution involved presenting guidance to students through his personal and professional journey, offering practical advice on overcoming obstacles and challenges in their chosen careers. This initiative allowed young people to explore difference and consider their role in fulfilling their ambitions while contributing to a world where everyone feels accepted and valued.

Speaking Engagements Across the Nation

Whether addressing corporate leaders in prestigious boardrooms or inspiring young minds in local schools and universities, Imran's speaking engagements carry an authenticity that resonates deeply with diverse audiences. His message consistently challenges preconceptions about success in modern Britain, demonstrating that excellence and achievement know no boundaries of background or circumstance.

His panel discussions and motivational talks focus on unlocking hidden potential and fostering inclusivity in business environments. These initiatives contribute to creating more diverse and welcoming corporate cultures while inspiring individuals to achieve their full potential.

Immortalised in Lego: A Chester Tribute

In 2023, Imran who was born in the Countess of Chester Hospital, honoured its native son in a uniquely modern way by immortalising Imran in Lego at the New Chester Market display. This distinctive tribute reflects not only his significant influence and connection to the community but also represents how contemporary success stories are being celebrated in innovative ways that resonate with all generations.

Leadership as Service to Others

What truly distinguishes Imran Savas in the landscape of modern entrepreneurship isn't merely his business acumen or the impressive array of accolades—it's his fundamental philosophy that genuine leadership and success are about serving others and unlocking the potential that exists within every individual. Imran is passionate about leadership development, believing that true leaders aren't born but created through the conscious decision to better themselves and serve their communities.

His approach to leadership centres on the belief that every human has immense potential and opportunity, but accessing it requires taking the necessary steps forward, no matter how challenging the circumstances. He consistently teaches that the key to transformation lies in appreciating what you have while working relentlessly to serve others, using your past experiences—including setbacks and failures—as valuable lessons rather than limitations.

Unlocking Human Potential

Central to Imran's philosophy is the unwavering belief that every person, regardless of their background, possesses untapped potential waiting to be unlocked. He advocates for the power of becoming confident in your own skin, embracing your unique story and circumstances as strengths rather than obstacles. This belief permeates his speaking engagements, mentoring relationships, and business practices, where he consistently demonstrates that success comes not from denying your past, but from transforming it into wisdom and strength.

Imran teaches that bettering yourself is not a destination but a continuous journey of growth, self-reflection, and service to others. He emphasises that true fulfillment comes from appreciating your current blessings while working tirelessly to create opportunities for those who come after you. This philosophy has guided every major decision in his career, from leaving financial security to start Tape UK to using award ceremonies as platforms for humanitarian advocacy.

Legacy Through Service

For Imran, success is measured not by personal achievements but by the positive impact on humanity. His vision of leaving a legacy of good drives his commitment to serving and helping others reach their full potential. Whether through Tape UK's innovative business model that liberates entrepreneurs, his speaking engagements that inspire young people from underrepresented backgrounds, or his political commentary that advocates for justice and equality, every action is guided by the question: "How can this serve humanity?"

This philosophy permeates every aspect of his work, from Tape UK's mission to liberate entrepreneurs from administrative burdens, to his speaking engagements that challenge young people from underrepresented backgrounds to transform tentative dreams into tangible goals. His multiple accolades for 'Role Model of the Year' and recognition as a 'Leader in Diversity, Inclusion and Fairness' reflect this deeper truth: Imran measures success not in personal achievements but in the doors he opens for others to follow.

A Service to Humanity 

Today, as Imran stands shoulder to shoulder with Britain's most recognised names, he represents a new breed of entrepreneur—one who combines business excellence with unwavering social purpose and a deep commitment to serving humanity. His presence in boardrooms and classrooms across the nation sends a powerful message about the changing face of British entrepreneurship and leadership.

His story transcends the typical narrative of individual achievement to become something far more meaningful: a blueprint for inclusive success and a testament to the transformative power of lifting others as you rise. Every speaking engagement, every award acceptance, every social media post contributes to a legacy of good that empowers future generations to dream bigger, reach higher, and believe in the possibility of their own success while serving others.

Imran's legacy is built on the fundamental principle that true success comes from helping humanity unlock its collective potential. He believes that by bettering ourselves and using our experiences—both triumphs and challenges—as tools for helping others, we create ripple effects that extend far beyond our individual lives. His work demonstrates that being confident in your own skin and appreciating what you have creates the foundation for serving others meaningfully and leaving the world better than you found it.

The Continuing Journey 

From his humble beginnings receiving free school dinners to becoming a nationally recognised entrepreneur and social advocate, Imran Savas embodies the fundamental truth that circumstances don't define potential—vision, persistence, and purpose do.

Through Tape UK's continued expansion and innovation, his powerful social media presence, impactful speaking engagements, and dedicated community work, Imran continues to challenge preconceptions while creating pathways for others. His journey from a working-class background to national prominence isn't just inspiring—it's a living example of how entrepreneurship, when guided by purpose and grounded in community, can become a force for societal transformation.

As he continues to share his insights, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to making success accessible to all through @byimransavas on Instagram and his various platforms, Imran Savas represents hope, possibility, and the limitless potential that exists when talent meets opportunity, supported by an unshakeable belief in the power of lifting others along the way.

His story continues to unfold, each chapter adding to a legacy that proves success is not a privilege of birth, but a possibility available to anyone with the courage to dream and the determination to act. In a world that often celebrates individual achievement, Imran Savas embodies something far more profound: the transformative power of shared success and the enduring impact of leading with purpose.