Member Article

F1 store ?steers? its way to new location

Motor fans in the region are in for a treat as the North East’s only dedicated Formula 1 store has re-opened at the Royal Quays Outlet Centre.

Northumberland born, Neil Edwards established ‘F1 Racing Gear’ 13 years ago. As an ex-professional golfer and motor fan, Neil’s passion and connections with the sport ‘drove’ his desire to set up one of three stores dedicated to Formula 1 merchandise in the UK.

Neil originally launched the store in the Metrocentre where he was joined by Karen Eley, a huge sporting fan who also had experience working in the retail sector. Last year, Lee Walker joined the duo as Company Director.

Neil said: “I have a strong sporting background and from the age of 17 played professional golf for three years.

“However, through my sporting connections and love for Formula 1, I wanted to use my business background to set up a store. There are at present only three in the country, one here in Tyneside, Sheffield and London.

“It is a massive sport which plays host to a global audience and has enabled me to take the merchandise worldwide. It is for this reason we chose to locate to Royal Quays, the access to the port and ferry for trading was a massive pull factor.

“Going forward, myself, Karen and Lee want to franchise the business throughout the country. To be able to combine business with pleasure is something we want to offer others the chance of doing.”

Royal Quays Centre Manager, Judith Ramshaw, said: “We are delighted to welcome F1 Racing Gear to Royal Quays, this is a fantastic addition to the scheme and adds a unique offering for motor fans.

“It is great news for us that the trio have chosen Royal Quays as a base for their business. The store is already proving popular with shoppers eager to catch a glimpse of some spectacular sporting memorabilia.”

Sport enthusiasts get the chance to see race suits worn by the racers, signedhelmets as well as t-shirts and posters that are available to buy in store.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Royal Quays Outlet Centre .