A men’s equestrian clothing brand has secured £20,000 in funding to expand its operations. The brand was launched in 2022 by a competitive eventer and show jumper.
The founder’s initiative was driven by the lack of affordable and contemporary men’s horse riding attire in the market. This funding will facilitate the brand’s growth and diversification.
Funding Secured for Expansion
A men’s equestrian clothing brand based in Stroud has successfully obtained £20,000 in funding to expand its operations. Launched in 2022 by competitive eventer and show jumper, the founder identified a gap in the market for affordable men’s horse riding attire.
The founder’s concern arose from the market’s focus on traditional styles and the lack of investment in men’s products compared to the female sector. The pandemic period catalysed the founder’s decision to address this gap by creating a brand tailored to modern equestrian needs.
Origins and Vision
The equestrian brand was born from the founder’s longstanding passion for the sport, dating back to childhood, and the desire to enhance product diversity. The brand aims to merge designer fashion with functional equestrian wear, suitable for contemporary demands.
‘This brand represents a 15-year dream to serve the men’s equestrian clothing market,’ the founder stated. ‘I wanted to combine designer elements with equestrian functionality.’
Utilisation of Funding
The £20,000 Start Up Loan from the British Business Bank, accessed through X-Forces Enterprise, has been pivotal. The funds were channelled into manufacturing stock, establishing a storeroom, and commissioning professional photography.
Additionally, the funding covered the design of signature shipping boxes, enhancing the brand’s presentation and customer experience. The business mentor provided through the loan programme offered invaluable guidance and support throughout the initial stages.
Continuing Operations and Future Plans
The founder operates the brand alongside his project management job, with assistance from family members. Sales are primarily conducted at events and competitions across the UK, which the founder actively attends.
In the immediate future, the focus is on promoting new summer products and expanding event attendance. Long-term ambitions include acquiring a horse box to facilitate trading at more events and further supporting the British economy by manufacturing products domestically.
Market Challenges and Growth
Despite the brand’s growth, challenges remain, particularly in increasing product visibility at events predominantly featuring women’s equestrian products. Addressing this issue through unique marketing strategies is a priority.
‘The men’s sector had not seen the same level of investment as the female sector,’ the founder observed, stressing the importance of innovation in product display and marketing.
With continued dedication to filling the market gap, the founder remains focused on blending style with practicality, ensuring the brand meets modern equestrian needs.
Community and Support
Support from the equestrian community and military connections has been substantial. The founder’s background facilitated additional support and network building crucial for the brand’s initial success.
Future plans also involve deeper community engagement, enhancing customer loyalty through exceptional service and product offerings. The founder aims to build lasting relationships within the equestrian community and beyond.
Looking Ahead
The brand’s trajectory appears promising with upcoming product launches and increased event participation. Maintaining a balance between innovative design and traditional functionality remains central to the brand’s ethos.
The securing of the £20,000 funding marks a significant milestone for the brand. It enables further expansion and solidifies its presence in the market.
The brand continues to strive towards innovation in the men’s equestrian clothing sector, embodying the founder’s vision for the future of equestrian fashion.
