John Drage

Company Owner @ Journey Instruments UK Ltd

About

I started my career the traditional way — as an apprentice-trained toolmaker, learning precision, problem-solving and how things really get made on the shop floor. That foundation took me into cutting tools and machine tools sales, where I spent years working with manufacturers, engineers and production teams across the UK, helping them improve accuracy, productivity and reliability. Along the way I learned something just as important as engineering: how businesses actually grow, how customers think, and how relationships really work. But outside of work there was always another constant — music and guitars. After years of building other people’s businesses, I finally found the courage to build my own. I now run Journey Instruments UK, bringing innovative travel guitars and musical gear to players who want freedom, mobility and inspiration wherever life or work takes them. My background in engineering means I care deeply about design, materials, reliability and real-world usability — not just looks. My background in sales means I care just as much about people, service and long-term trust. Today I sit right where those worlds meet: precision engineering + music + entrepreneurship. Whether it’s helping a travelling professional keep their music with them, or building a brand that puts customers first, my goal is simple — create things that genuinely improve how people live, work and create. 🎸 Founder — Journey Instruments UK ⚙️ Sales & Product Specialist 🌍 Supporting musicians on the move,

Country

United Kingdom

City

Steeple Bumpstead

Industry

Mechanical Or Industrial Engineering

Skill

Manufacturing, HVAC, Solidworks, AutoCAD, Mechanical Engineering, Product Development, Automation, Project Engineering, Lean Manufacturing, Sales Management, Pumps, CAD, Sales Engineering, New Business Development, 5S, Automotive, CNC manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, Energy, Engineering

Experience

Company Owner

Journey Instruments UK Ltd

2024-2 - Present · 2 yrs 8 mos

Rayne, England, United Kingdom

As the owner of Journey Instruments UK Ltd, I manage all aspects of the business, representing the UK arm of Journey Instruments and bringing innovative travel guitars and musical accessories to musicians across the country. My responsibilities include: Business Operations: Overseeing daily operations, supply chain management, inventory, logistics, and customer service to ensure smooth and reliable delivery. Sales & Growth: Driving sales through e-commerce, direct customer engagement, and strategic partnerships. Managing product listings, pricing, promotions, and marketplace presence. Marketing & Branding: Developing and executing marketing strategies across social media, Google campaigns, email, and content creation. Building brand awareness and promoting the unique benefits of Journey Instruments products. Product Expertise: Providing knowledgeable support and guidance to customers, from beginners to professional musicians. Demonstrating products, creating demos, and gathering feedback for continuous improvement. Business Development: Identifying opportunities for expansion, building relationships with retailers, musicians, and creators, and introducing new product lines to the UK market. Financial Oversight: Managing budgeting, purchasing, forecasting, and overall financial health of the company. Passionate about music, quality craftsmanship, and helping players find the right tools for their journey, I’ve grown Journey Instruments UK into a trusted supplier for musicians seeking portable, high-performance instruments.