Tony Stockman’s entrepreneurial journey began in modest surroundings, unemployed but resourceful, he established Minima Models in an outbuilding behind Potters Garage (now home to Framlingham’s solar car park). What started as a model-making venture quickly evolved into industrial prototyping, culminating in the formation of Minima Design at the Black Granary in Station Yard, growing the business to a turnover of £1 million.

From this foundation, Tony co-founded Miniflex with Peter Jenkins, a specialist fibre optic firm whose pioneering innovations yielded over 50 patents. The business flourished, ultimately becoming part of PPC Broadband and operating from Parham Airfield, now a fast-growing international business with significant turnover.

The need for dedicated workspace and a commitment to supporting regional enterprises led to the creation of Framlingham Technology Centre (FTC), which opened its doors in 2001. Under Tony’s guidance, FTC has become a hub for innovation and collaboration across the region.

Following the sale of Miniflex, Tony spent the next 15 years developing fibre-optic manufacturing businesses across Europe, Africa, the United States, Japan and India. His international experience is matched by a deep-rooted commitment to his community, he co-founded FramBroadband, leveraging FTC’s infrastructure to offer reliable local connectivity, and served Framlingham as a retained firefighter for 23 years and a First Responder for 15.

Tony has also held directorships with East of England International, Business Link Suffolk, and the Suffolk Development Agency, reflecting his dedication to regional growth and economic development.

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