Lyfe VR
Pioneering Virtual Reality Experiences across Essex County, with the support from Backing Essex Business!
Based in Southend-On-Sea, Lyfe VR is a trailblazing business. Set up by Simeon Brookstone and his Business partner back in January 2023, Lyfe VR focuses on providing virtual reality experiences. Combining cutting-edge technology with both fitness and entertainment, Lyfe VR is dedicated to delivering unique and immersive virtual reality experiences for all. Utilising state-of-the-art VR treadmills, high-tech VR headsets, and advanced gaming PCs, they are able to transport users into new realms of adventure and excitement, tailoring each experience, whether for private parties or corporate events.
Offering a range of services, including VR treadmill rentals, gaming PC rentals, VR headset rentals, and even a comprehensive event planning services to relive stress from their clients, their mission is to revolutionise the virtual reality landscape.
In the short time that the business has been running, a highlight already for Simeon has been running successful events, which have allowed him to get an idea and understanding of the reactions from people using the equipment.
Starting Lyfe VR was not without hurdles. Founder Simeon initially managed the business alone, with support from his wife, after his co-founder stepped away. Alongside working full-time at a different job, Simeon was now tasked with the intricacies of running the business alone. However, thanks to his love of playing video games, and the underlying feeling that this idea could blossom into something ahead of its time, he recognised the need for expert guidance and soon turned to Backing Essex Business for support!
“I loved to game as a child and still do as an adult. I also love new experiences – that feeling when you pick something up and you feel like a child. The first time I tried VR; it blew my mind! For me, it’s giving people a new experience that they’ve never done before or for them to go through an experience which captivates them.”
In the past, when working for a charity in East London which provided business advice to entrepreneurs, Simeon saw first-hand the people who’d come through the doors and the passion that radiated from doing what they loved but not knowing where to go next. Now, on the other side of the table, he was able to share his plans and aspirations for his business with John Sargant, Business Manager at Backing Essex Business, who acted as a sounding board, allowing his ideas to be refined and better aligned with market opportunities, as well as gaining confidence with his ideas and discussing what the next steps should be to scale his business. John was able to support Simeon with advice for funding options, as well as helping him with securing a premise in Southend, where one day Lyfe VR can call home.
Through Let’s Do Business Group, businesses in Southend-on-Sea can access a range of one-to-one support with an expert Business Advisor, covering areas such as finance, marketing, recruitment and strategic planning. Hosting fully funded workshops to learn new skills and providing access to free resources to help you stay on track with your goals, we can find a solution for your business no matter the challenges.
“Visiting Lyfe VR was an inspiring experience. I was genuinely impressed by the innovative concept and the quality of the virtual reality setup. Using the equipment was not only exciting and immersive, but it was clear how powerful it could be in helping people relax, unwind, and stay active - all in a fun, engaging way. With such a strong vision and clear benefits, there’s real potential for Lyfe VR to succeed and grow into something truly special.”
Following on from the support received through Backing Essex Business, Lyfe VR is now looking to spend the coming year increasing awareness of the technology and doing market research to boost their visibility.
A unique selling point which they will be looking to introduce once opening up a location is a monthly membership – similar to going to the gym – where people would be able to come in and use different pieces of equipment depending on their membership levels. Whether they are focused on rehabilitation, core muscle building, or are new the world of VR, the vision is to create a space which is accessible to all.
With a renewed sense of determination to realise Lyfe VR’s full potential, Simeon’s hopes for the future are to establish the first location for the business within the city centre before looking to expand county-wide, develop ideas and integrate the technology in new sectors, such as real estate, by offering virtual property tours using their equipment, and continue watching people be amazed by the technology’s capabilities!
At Backing Essex Business, we’re here to help your business every step of the way. We are here to support your business through impartial advice, business funding services, skills assessments and more. To find out how we can help your unique journey, get in touch!