Richard Evans has grown Burslem-based Mincrete into a business with a £15 million annual turnover.

He has succeeded in business against the backdrop of personal struggles. 25 years ago he was in the grip of acute alcoholism but turned his life around after spending time in rehab. He has now been sober for 16 years and has even bought a financial stake in the clinic where he received his treatment.

Richard has been nominated as Entrepreneur of the Year in University of Staffordshire Business Awards by his proud daughter, Elizabeth Evans, who is University of Staffordshire Business Management alumna and now works at Mincrete.

Mincrete, which specialises in ready mixed concrete, has also been nominated as Business of the Year.

Elizabeth said: “The specific set of intellectual skills that he possesses, combined with personality traits of compassion, passion, premeditation and stoicism is the fundamental key to Mincrete’s success and ability to weather uncertain and often cruel times.

“His rise from the ashes is an astonishing story that not only resonates with so many people but provides something that every person needs, hope.”

Richard’s catchphrase in ‘you’ve got to give it away to keep it’, which has seen him buying trolley loads of Christmas presents for families in need and giving up his free time to support people struggling with alcoholism or gambling.

Under Richard’s leadership the Mincrete turnover has grown exponentially. It has also recently gained British Standards Institution accreditation.

Richard’s business philosophy centres around sustainable and incremental growth, social responsibility and corporate social responsibility. This includes creating a low-carbon alternative concrete range called APOGEE to allow for lower carbon footprints across the supply chain.

Richard recently bought Nettlebank Memorials and is planning to expand further into the funerals and graveyard sector.

Elizabeth added: “Richard’s story is one of extraordinary transformation of a man who rebuilt his life from nothing, who went on to build a thriving business that contributes to the local economy and provides valuable services.

“He has achieved remarkable financial growth for Mincrete, attained industry recognition with BSI accreditation and expanded his vision to include other ventures that serve the community. He has done all of this while remaining grounded, compassionate and committed to giving back.

“I know he’s my dad but he really is an exceptional person. He just fills you with a lot of hope.”