How did Tristram and Rebecca Mayhew build the Go Ape adventure business with minimal upfront investment?

Tristram and Rebecca Mayhew built Go Ape by strategically partnering with the UK Forestry Commission rather than purchasing land themselves. After seeing a similar concept in France during a vacation, they approached the Forestry Commission, which was interested in increasing visitor numbers to their sites. They proposed building five initial treetop adventure courses to prove their concept, requesting a 25-year exclusive deal for additional locations if successful. This innovative approach allowed them to borrow most of the assets they needed rather than purchasing them outright. The strategy proved incredibly successful, resulting in over 30 Go Ape adventure sites across the UK and expansion into the US market.