I never get the accountants in before I start up a business. It's done on gut feeling, especially if I can see that they are taking the mickey out of the consumer.

The quote "I never get the accountants in before I start up a business. It's done on gut feeling, especially if I can see that they are taking the mickey out of the consumer." by Richard Branson highlights the importance of intuition and customer focus in entrepreneurship. Branson suggests that launching a business often begins with a strong sense of gut feeling rather than purely relying on numbers or financial analysis. This approach emphasizes trusting one’s instincts, especially when identifying opportunities where consumers are being unfairly treated or overlooked.

Richard Branson, the founder of the Virgin Group, is well-known for his adventurous and unconventional approach to business. This quote reflects his belief that successful ventures come from spotting gaps in the market and creating better alternatives for customers. Branson’s comment about avoiding accountants early on underscores his view that creativity and customer empathy should lead the way before getting bogged down in detailed financial planning.

The phrase “taking the mickey out of the consumer” refers to businesses exploiting or deceiving customers. Branson’s statement shows his commitment to building companies that respect and value consumers rather than taking advantage of them. This customer-centric mindset is a cornerstone of Virgin’s brand identity, which often challenges established industries by offering better service and value.

In summary, Richard Branson’s quote reveals his entrepreneurial philosophy of trusting intuition and focusing on consumer fairness when starting a business. It encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to prioritize understanding and serving customers first, believing that financial success will follow when businesses act with integrity and insight.