Olympic champion invests in York wellness firm

A wellness company is targeting significant growth following a multi-million-pound investment deal with a sports nutrition brand co-founded by a double Olympic gold medallist.

York-based HempWell has agreed a merger with JJ Double Gold, co-founded by taekwondo champion Jade Jones OBE and technology entrepreneur Richard Groves, of Active Digital.

The deal will see JJ Double Gold acquire an equity stake in HempWell, with investment phased over three years as the business targets a £10 million valuation by 2029.

The funding will support the acquisition of a manufacturing facility on the outskirts of York, upgrades to production infrastructure and the introduction of a dedicated nutraceutical gummy production line.

The partnership will also help HempWell expand beyond CBD products into new markets, including mental health, women's health, sports performance and recovery.

Jade said: “Now more than ever, there’s a growing demand from consumers for ethically sourced, effective wellness products.

“I know this as much as anyone, having used natural nutrients extensively throughout my Olympic and current boxing career and understand the benefits they can provide in supporting performance and recovery.

“HempWell has a wealth of expertise in this area, and I’m excited to be part of the journey and help take the business to the next level.”

Founded by husband-and-wife team Phil James and Lisa McWilliams, HempWell specialises in CBD-based wellness supplements and creams.

The company employs 15 people and operates retail outlets in York, Brighton and Harrogate, alongside an international ecommerce business.

Further investment is also planned in branding, marketing and artificial intelligence, supported by Richard’s digital consultancy, Active Digital.

Lisa added: “This is a hugely significant milestone for HempWell and one that marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

“We’ve built a strong, trusted brand and a loyal customer base, and this investment gives us the opportunity to take that success to the next level.

“The partnership with Jade and Richard brings together complementary expertise, investment and ambition.

“It gives us the resources to significantly increase our manufacturing capability, accelerate product development and enter new markets, while remaining true to our core values.

“We’re proud that a business which started here in York is now entering this next phase of growth, and we’re excited about what we can build together over the coming years.”

Phil added: “Technology and AI will play an increasingly important role in future-proofing the business, allowing us to scale efficiently as we grow.

“From production and fulfilment through to how we understand and serve our customers, there are huge opportunities to use technology to make HempWell even more efficient and responsive.”

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