Member Article

North East sportswear brand gains multi-million pound backing from serial entrepreneur

North East business BLK United Kingdom is hoping to propel itself as one of Britain’s fastest-growing sportswear brands, after landing a multi-million pound investment from serial entrepreneur Richard Upshall.

The business, which launched last yearand now employs 20 people from its Stockton HQ, is planning to expand into a wider range of sports and strengthen its retail and distribution capabilities.

Chief Executive Ben Houchen, who recently announced his intention to run as the Conservative candidate for the position of Elected Mayor of Tees Valley, has worked with Richard on a number of businesses in the past.

Ben explained: “Richard’s investment and input into the development of BLK United Kingdom will provide a significant springboard for the business and our ambitions within the sportswear market.

“His knowledge of the brand, through his BLK Middle East operation, together with his excellent track record for establishing and investing in growing businesses are very welcome and will help deliver exciting prospects for the company and the North East region.”

Mr Upshall is no stranger to investing in North East companies. His global oilfield inspection business, OES, has its British headquarters in Stockton-on-Tees and the region is also home to the UK offices of a number of RU-branded companies including RU Listening and RU Consulting.

Richard also brings a wealth of experience to the business from the sportswear sector.

He has been the Middle East licence holder for the BLK brand for two providing team apparel in the UAE for teams such as the International Cricket Club, Dubai Exiles Rugby and Dubai Hurricanes RFC as well as organisations such as the Dubai and Abu Dhabi Police Departments, Mars and Dermalogica.

Richard said: “BLK United Kingdom has real potential to achieve significant growth and increased market share across the British sportswear sector.

“The company has made positive progress with its deals with professional rugby clubs and associations, which we will build upon by establishing a presence in a diverse range of sports.