Manchester entrepreneur packs a punch with boxing apparel startup

A digital startup selling apparel geared towards boxing fans has launched in Manchester.

North West entrepreneur Simon Walsh decided to found his new business venture, Eight Count Clothing, after identifying a market gap for clothing and merchandise inspired by some of boxing’s biggest rising stars.

Simon commented: “I would look around the crowds and there was very little in the way of fan-friendly clothing. Our definition of ‘fan-friendly’ means looking good at an affordable price.

“The only real options open were the same ring-walk shirts as the fighters. Which is fine for them all glittery and showing off their sponsors as they should do, but I know myself and others would want to show our support without being a walking billboard covered in sparkles.”

With experience in graphic design, ecommerce and merchandising, Simon made the decision to enter the business word with a clothing company of his own.

Now, the firm’s digital store at eightcount.co.uk features items inspired by boxers such as Frankie Gavin, Eddie Chambers and Spike O’Sullivan, as well as up-and-coming names like Manchester fighters Zelfa Barrett, Sam Hyde and Ryan Doyle.

Discussing the company’s launch, Simon commented: “I put some designs around on Twitter and Instagram to gauge reaction, and within minutes I was getting inundated with followers, likes, and even fighters themselves heaping praise on the designs.”

Looking ahead, Simon said he expects to add more names to the Eight Count Clothing range in the near future.

He added: “We’re happy to let this grow at it’s own pace and create a long-lasting, quality name that becomes synonymous with the boxing community.”