Cumulus reigns in Dorset’s outdoor adventure sector

Russell Thomoson - founder of Cumulus

Dorset is rich in start-ups, but very few are grounded in the depth of experience possessed by Russell Thompson, founder of Cumulus Outdoors.

Even the condensed version of Russell's CV is ruggedly impressive. Former Royal Marine, creator of team building training in some of the UK’s leading schools, trainer of mountain rescue teams and Team GB Olympic coaches, who helped Sir Ranulph Fiennes test cold weather gear in temperatures down to minus 53 degrees Celsius.

A long-term Dorset resident, Russell spotted that his skills, combined with some of the most exciting coastline in the world, could provide the basis for a successful outdoor adventure business.

He set up Cumulus in 2004 with the vision of creating an environment allowing anyone to learn about themselves, and their team, through a variety of physical and intellectual challenges. But rather than be a gruelling battle for survival, the experiences were to be enjoyed and achievements celebrated.

Climbing to a high standard from the outset

Excellence, in preparation and execution, was central to Russell’s plans. In an industry where risk is part of the product, it was important that, from the very start, only the best qualified and most experienced instructors were brought into the Cumulus team.

The result of that commitment to quality is a business that, nine years later, has trained teams from some of the UK’s leading organisations. Cumulus also works with schools, colleges, families and private groups including stag and hen parties.

The initial focus was coasteering, which is about scrambling along the base of cliffs, jumping and diving where necessary to complete a journey. The business now encompasses a much wider range of physical activities and, where appropriate, combines these with workshops and coaching.

Success demands conquering varied terrain

Coasteering

As with every business, Cumulus faces its challenges. While outdoor events take place all year round, demand is always highest in the warmer months. The company is continually broadening its range of activities to smooth its turnover across the seasons. In addition to coasteering its offering now includes bushcraft, team fun days, mountain biking, kayaking and even an old-fashioned school sports day experience.

Another hurdle to overcome is marketing. It’s not easy for a small business in Dorset to reach out to the corporate clients who, once they discover it, derive real benefit from the Cumulus experience. The firm has invested in its website and is looking to broaden its reach into social media.

Advice from Cumulus to anyone considering setting up a similar business is to plan for the costs associated with operating at a high standard of quality. The welfare and safety of everyone involved is of paramount importance. It’s only by taking these considerations very seriously from the start, along with the extremely clear vision and hard work by Russell Thompson and his team, that Cumulus has achieved its position as one of the leading outdoor events companies in Dorset.

To help build up from this firm foundation, Cumulus has recently taken on Peter Boyce as MD. His experience of setting up successful businesses will secure the company's position on the ascent from local to national achievement.

Find out more about Cumulus Outdoors from their website, and you can follow them on Twitter.