Few entrepreneurs can say they’ve changed the landscape of an entire industry, but that’s exactly what Gary Beckwith accomplished over his 50-year career on the River Thames. In How to Make a Million in Business, Beckwith shares his extraordinary journey—from a dyslexic East London school dropout to the founder of the UK’s largest tour boat company, City Cruises. More than just a business memoir, this book is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of family in building a lasting legacy.
From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leader
Gary Beckwith’s story is as compelling as it is inspiring. Born in a working-class neighborhood in East London, Beckwith grew up without academic qualifications but quickly discovered he had a natural talent for business. His early years were spent hustling in markets and working as a croupier before a seemingly unremarkable opportunity—a rundown fuelling barge on the Thames—set him on a path that would redefine London’s tourism industry.
What follows is a story of grit and determination as Beckwith chips away at an outdated and fragmented industry, eventually transforming a struggling sector into a streamlined, world-class business. His ability to spot opportunities where others saw obstacles is one of the book’s central themes, including a using a simple offer of bacon rolls and coffee to out maneuver competitors for the Millennium Dome transport contract.
Business Lessons from a River Entrepreneur
Though How to Make a Million in Business is a fascinating personal journey, it’s also packed with practical advice for entrepreneurs, particularly those navigating family businesses. Beckwith shares candid insights on scaling a company, managing sudden demand, and hiring people who complement your weaknesses. He speaks openly about the struggles of mixing business with family life, offering a rare glimpse into the sacrifices, tensions, and triumphs that come with working alongside loved ones.
One of the book’s most striking takeaways is Beckwith’s belief in reinvestment. Unlike many entrepreneurs who prioritize personal wealth, he and his wife, Rita, lived modestly, pouring every pound back into the business. This disciplined approach to growth underscores one of the book’s key lessons: true success isn’t about quick wins, but about long-term vision and smart financial planning..
Triumphs, Tragedies, and a Love for the Thames
The book doesn’t shy away from the darker moments of Beckwith’s journey. The tragic Marchioness disaster, which saw 51 people lose their lives in a collision on the Thames, was a pivotal moment for the industry and for Beckwith personally. He writes about this with sensitivity and reflection, highlighting how the tragedy spurred regulatory changes that made the river safer for future generations.
Yet, the book is also filled with joyful and unexpected moments—like the time the Queen lit the Millennium beacons from one of his boats or when he brought ‘The King’ (an Elvis tribute act) onto the Thames, an unconventional decision that turned into a commercial success. These anecdotes add warmth and personality to the narrative, making it an engaging read even for those with no prior interest in business.
A Legacy Beyond Business
What sets How to Make a Million in Business apart from other entrepreneurial memoirs is its deep sense of purpose. This isn’t just a book about making money—it’s about building something that lasts. Beckwith’s reflections on selling his company after five decades offer valuable insights into the emotional challenges of stepping away from a business you’ve built from scratch.
At its core, this is a book about legacy. Beckwith doesn’t just leave readers with a blueprint for business success—he leaves them with a greater appreciation for perseverance, adaptability, and the impact one person can have on an entire industry.
Final Verdict
How to Make a Million in Business is an absorbing, insightful read that will resonate with entrepreneurs, business leaders, and anyone fascinated by the power of ambition. Beckwith’s storytelling makes complex business lessons feel accessible, while his personal anecdotes keep the narrative engaging. Whether you’re a startup founder, a family business owner, or simply someone who loves a great success story, this book delivers a powerful message: with the right mindset and relentless determination, anything is possible.
