Progress Story:
It’s been an exciting time for Cheshire based Built For Athletes following River Capital’s investment in the company in 2022 during which time the premium sports and fitness brand has increased revenue by 64%.
The seven-figure investment has also supported further significant product innovation and expansion into new markets, helping accelerate the company’s success and leaving it ideally placed for the future.
Key amongst these developments was the launch of the ‘Pro Series’ collection in July 2023, comprising backpacks and duffels designed specifically for dedicated fitness enthusiasts. With features like military-grade durable fabric, waterproofing, reinforced zips and buckles, anti-microbial lining, and shock-absorbing laptop compartments, the Pro Series set a new bar for performance gym bags and was named “Best Gym Backpack of 2023” by Men’s Fitness, validating the design and quality.
Now reaching over 180,000 athletes globally with its products, Built For Athletes has established itself as a leading athletic lifestyle brand. Strategic partnerships have also been central, such as becoming the official luggage supplier to the Oracle Red Bull Racing F1 team during their record-breaking 2023 season that saw Max Verstappen claim his third consecutive drivers’ championship and Red Bull go back-to-back in the constructor’s championship. The team travelled the globe using Built For Athletes backpacks, 90LT suitcases, 60LT suitcases and carry-on bags.
Additional high-profile partnerships were launched with leading German Bundesliga football powerhouse Borussia Dortmund and NCAA Division 1 Texas A&M whose American Football team is one of the most loyally supported in the USA, regularly filling its 102,000-capacity stadium.
With momentum accelerating, 2024 promises more exciting growth opportunities, including the upcoming launch of an expanded Oracle Red Bull Racing collection in February and continued presence at the worlds fastest growing fitness series, HYROX, setting the stage for Built For Athletes global expansion.
On its progress Built For Athletes founder Nick Costello said:
‘Choosing the right investment partner was always going to be a pivotal decision in Built For Athletes journey. From the moment we met Mark and his team we had no doubts that River Capital was the correct choice for us. Together with our Chairman Richard Styles, their guidance and support has enabled the management team to develop the business effectively and post strong growth figures. We have big plans for the future and a team in place to deliver’.