Meet Ben Francis – Founder & CEO – Gymshark

From delivering pizzas to leading a global fitness empire, Ben Francis has redefined success. As Britain’s youngest self-made billionaire, he’s proven that wealth isn’t the only measure of achievement. With a net worth of $1.3 billion, he owns 70% of a $1.5 billion company, yet his philosophy remains grounded. “Wealth isn’t a real measure of success,” he often says.

Gymshark, the brand he started in his Birmingham garage, has grown into a global leader in fitness apparel. What began as a small startup now serves over 230 countries, employs 900+ people, and boasts 18 million social media followers. Francis’s journey is a testament to hard work and innovation. He even learned sewing from his grandmother to create the first Gymshark products.

His story is more than just a rags-to-riches tale. It’s about passion, perseverance, and redefining what it means to build a successful business. Ben Francis’s unconventional path continues to inspire millions worldwide.

Key Takeaways

• Ben Francis is Britain’s youngest self-made billionaire with a net worth of $1.3 billion.
• He believes wealth isn’t the only measure of success.
• Gymshark started in a garage and now serves 230+ countries.
• The brand has 18 million social media followers and 900+ employees.
• Francis learned sewing from his grandmother to create the first products.

Introduction to Ben Francis and Gymshark

At just 19, a young entrepreneur turned a garage dream into a global fitness empire. Born in the West Midlands in 1992, Ben Francis had a knack for business from an early age. By 15, he was already running a car license plate business, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit.

Before diving into fitness apparel, he developed two fitness apps: Fat Loss Abs Guide and iPhysique. These early ventures laid the groundwork for what would become a revolutionary brand. In 2012, alongside Lewis Morgan, he launched Gymshark, initially focusing on drop-shipped fitness supplements.

Who is Ben Francis?

Ben Francis is more than just a businessman; he’s a visionary. From his early days in the West Midlands to becoming a global influencer, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. His hands-on approach and relentless drive have been key to his success.

The Birth of Gymshark

Gymshark’s origins trace back to a small garage, where Francis invested £1,000 in a sewing machine and screen printer. Dissatisfied with ill-fitting workout clothes, he pivoted to creating physique-enhancing designs. This shift marked the beginning of a fitness apparel revolution.

In 2013, a pivotal moment came when the first handmade stringer was sold through influencer marketing. Francis personally screen-printed and shipped early orders, showcasing his dedication. This hands-on role helped build the foundation of a brand that now dominates the fitness industry.

The Early Days: From Pizza Delivery to Fitness Apparel

Starting with late-night pizza deliveries, a young entrepreneur laid the foundation for a fitness revolution. While studying at Aston University, he balanced lectures with delivering pizzas for £5 an hour. Nights were spent sewing and screen-printing in his garage, often working until 3 AM. This relentless grind set the stage for what would become a global brand.

Balancing University and Entrepreneurship

Juggling academics and a startup wasn’t easy. Days were filled with lectures, while nights were dedicated to building his dream. He even experimented with a dropshipping model, offering over 1,000 supplement SKUs through third-party fulfillment. This early experience taught him valuable lessons about scaling a business.

The First Steps in Fitness Apparel

The first products were far from perfect. Early designs were described as “questionable” for average builds, often too baggy for most users. “We were making clothes for 300-pound architectures of muscle,” he later admitted. But a pivotal moment came when he decided to create what he and his friends actually wanted to wear.

This shift in mindset led to the first handmade stringer, which took 60 days to fulfill its initial order. Despite the challenges, the brand’s growth was undeniable. From earning £300 a day to making £30,000 in just 30 minutes after a major event, the journey was a testament to perseverance and innovation.

Building the Brand: Challenges and Triumphs

Building a global brand from scratch came with its fair share of obstacles. From financial risks to evolving strategies, every step required careful planning and bold decisions. The journey was a mix of setbacks and breakthroughs, shaping the brand into what it is today.

Overcoming Financial Hurdles

Early on, financial challenges were a constant battle. The team emptied their bank accounts twice—first for the BodyPower Expo and later for the Luxe Tracksuit launch. These risks paid off, as both events became turning points in the brand’s growth.

Organic growth was another key factor. Starting with a simple “fanmail” strategy in 2012, the brand gradually built partnerships with athletes. This approach laid the foundation for a loyal community and steady sales.

The Role of Social Media and Influencers

Social media played a crucial role in the brand’s success. In 2013, the strategy of sending free gear to influencers like Lex Griffin and Matt Ogus proved to be a game-changer. This early marketing move helped the brand gain traction and credibility.

Over the years, the athlete roster expanded to include names like Nikki Blackketter, Steve Cook, and more recently, Francis Ngannou and Chris Bumstead. Today, the brand’s “family” of 70+ athletes drives nearly 40% of conversions.

The women’s line also saw significant evolution. From humble beginnings, it now contributes over 50% of revenue, thanks to hits like the Flex leggings. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have been instrumental in this growth, with @gymsharkwomen leading the charge.

Gymshark’s Breakthrough: The BodyPower Expo

In May 2013, a bold gamble at the BodyPower Expo catapulted a small fitness brand into the spotlight. The team invested their last funds into booth space, hoping to make an impact. What followed was a defining moment that changed the trajectory of the company forever.

The expo, held at the NEC Birmingham, became the stage for Gymshark’s first major success. The booth was mobbed by attendees at the 10 AM opening, and the energy was electric. This event marked the beginning of the brand’s journey from local recognition to global dominance.

The Viral Tracksuit Moment

The Luxe Tracksuit was the star of the show. Developed through outsourced production and maxed-out credit, it became an instant hit. In just 30 minutes, the brand made £30,000 in sales, a staggering leap from their previous £300 daily earnings.

This viral moment wasn’t just about sales; it was a testament to the power of bold decisions. The Luxe Tracksuit’s success showcased the brand’s ability to create products that resonated with their audience.

From Local to Global Recognition

The BodyPower Expo was a turning point. Website traffic surged 100 times during the event, and the brand’s visibility skyrocketed. This local success paved the way for global expansion.

By 2016, Gymshark launched its World Tour, taking the brand from Birmingham to Brooklyn. The 2018 Lift Cities events further solidified its presence in the fitness world. These milestones were built on the foundation laid at the BodyPower Expo.

Innovation and Expansion: Gymshark’s Growth Strategy

Innovation has always been at the core of Gymshark’s journey, driving its transformation from a small startup to a global fitness leader. Over the years, the brand has consistently pushed boundaries, evolving its clothing lines and expanding into new markets. This relentless focus on growth has cemented its place as a trailblazer in the fitness industry.

Introducing the Luxe Tracksuit

The Luxe Tracksuit marked a turning point in the brand’s history. Launched in 2013, it became an instant hit, generating £30,000 in sales within just 30 minutes. This success wasn’t just about numbers—it showcased the power of bold design and strategic risk-taking.

Today, the Luxe Tracksuit remains a symbol of Gymshark’s ability to create products that resonate with its audience. It set the stage for future innovations, proving that the brand could deliver both style and functionality.

Expanding Product Lines and Markets

From its early stringers to over 50 seamless collections, Gymshark’s product evolution has been remarkable. Each new line reflects the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation. The women’s collection, for example, now contributes over 50% of revenue, thanks to hits like the Flex leggings.

Retail milestones have also played a key role in the brand’s expansion. The 2022 launch of the Regent Street flagship store in London, complete with a Sweat Studio, marked a new chapter in Gymshark’s retail journey. This move brought the brand closer to its community, offering immersive experiences alongside its products.

Globally, Gymshark now serves 131 countries, with plans for further expansion. The brand’s headquarters have grown from the Solihull campus to include a New York City office, with a vision for “forever homes” worldwide. This global presence underscores its commitment to connecting with fitness enthusiasts everywhere.

Ben Francis’s Leadership and Vision

The return of a visionary leader can reignite a company’s mission. In 2015, the founder stepped down as CEO to focus on product development and marketing. This move allowed him to refine the brand’s identity and strengthen its connection with the fitness community.

Six years later, he returned to the CEO role, bringing renewed energy and focus. His comeback marked a pivotal moment for the business, emphasizing a back-to-basics approach centered on weightlifting and community engagement.

Stepping Down and Returning as CEO

Transitioning from CEO to Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) in 2015 was a strategic decision. It allowed the leader to immerse himself in the creative side of the business, ensuring the brand stayed true to its roots. During this time, the company achieved a $1.45 billion valuation through a deal with General Atlantic.

In 2021, his return as CEO signaled a renewed commitment to the brand’s core values. His mantra, “Build by lifters, for lifters,” became the guiding principle for future growth.

Gymshark’s Future Under Ben’s Guidance

Under his leadership, the brand is focusing on expanding into 10 new markets by 2025. This ambitious plan reflects a commitment to connecting with fitness enthusiasts worldwide. The company’s culture remains a key priority, with a 94% employee retention rate showcasing its dedication to its people.

Current priorities include a back-to-basics approach, emphasizing weightlifting and functional fitness. This strategy ensures the brand stays relevant and continues to inspire its community.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Ben Francis and Gymshark

From humble beginnings to a global fitness empire, the journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. With a net worth of $1.3 billion and 70% ownership of a $1.5 billion company, the success story is undeniable. The MBE honor further cements the status of this trailblazer in the fitness world.

The brand has redefined fitness apparel marketing, setting new standards for innovation and community engagement. At just 31, the founder has disrupted giants like Nike and Under Armour, proving that passion and perseverance can reshape an industry.

From sewing in a garage to building a global empire, the core values have remained unchanged. The community-first approach, established in 2012, continues to drive the brand’s future. This legacy is a testament to staying true to one’s roots while reaching for the stars.