What Makes SplashMaps Tick
Why was I picked for the Hampshire Life Men in Business article in their glossy May 2021 magazine? Seems it’s because they’d seen some of the press around our e-Textile work with Southampton University and quizzed me on what makes SplashMaps tick.
A few hundred kilometres of maps
Here’s what they put to print together with a photo of me with a few hundred kilometres of maps around my neck and fingers and the wooly hat my Mum knitted for that chilly New Years Day walk.
David Overton is MD of Eastleigh based SplashMaps, a husband and father of two. A Chemical Engineer attracted to Hampshire by Ordnance Survey, he now has a map innovation business of his own.
Tell us about your company…
SplashMaps Ltd. is all about hassle-free discovery for walkers, runners, cyclists and those who enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of the outdoors. For many, unfurling an award-winning fabric map tickles their curiosity and triggers a pang to explore. No more paper map tangles or gadget anxiety, customers personalise their maps for their favourite people and places in a style that best suits them.
Weatherproof SplashMaps are perfect for weekend and worldwide explorers. Armchair adventurers, wild swimmers, and campers love to plan and re-live those discoveries on tablecloths, quick-dry towels and even shower curtains!
How has your business changed over the last 12 months?
2020’s uncertainties tainted the rush for maps and littered Hampshire’s countryside with disposable masks. We reacted swiftly with multi-layered fabric masks. Now, personalised map masks bring identity and fun to local businesses and clubs.
Why choose Hampshire to base your business?
Now we are developing e-textile products there is no better place in the world to be! Southampton University, our partner in the SmartT project, and Ordnance Survey are close by and we regularly test new prototypes in our two national parks.