Ronhill Sports continues to run and run in overseas market
BUSINESS FOUNDED BY MARATHON LEGEND FORGES AHEAD
A GREATER Manchester sports brand founded by marathon legend Ron Hill is aiming to double its overseas sales as demand for its innovative running products continues to grow.
Ronhill Sports in Hyde, owned by The Bollin Group as part of a portfolio of outdoor brands, was founded in 1970 by Dr Ron Hill MBE, a former European, Boston and Commonwealth marathon champion and world record holder.
The company specialises in running gear for all seasons and weather conditions, meaning their products are in demand from around the world.
Its winter range and merino wool thermals are popular with customers in Canada, while sales of its lightweight, breathable products are rising in humid areas such as South East Asia.
The company’s pioneering fabrics and materials are testament to its founder Ron, who has a PhD in textile chemistry and has been instrumental in developing synthetic fabrics for running.
He was the first to use reflective trim and invented the side-split running short.
Innovation is still a key part of the design process today.
Following support from the Department for International Trade (DIT), Ronhill has seen its exports grow from 5 per cent of turnover in 2009 to 25 per cent today, and it now sells its products in over 30 countries.
The company is aiming to grow exports to reach 50 per cent of its business in the coming years.
Brand director Graham Richards said: “Exporting has been an incredibly important part of our brand’s development, which has enabled us to grow our business in line with the increasing popularity of running worldwide.
“Since our initial engagement with the Government over 15 years ago we’ve received a range of support, and DIT’s services have been key to our continued export development.
“While we don’t have the marketing spend of global giants in the sports industry, our strong heritage and high-quality products are gaining recognition around the world, and we’re confident that this will provide the foundation for continued success in the years ahead.”
Paul Stowers, head of the North West region at DIT, added: “It’s great to see the success of British sport translating into benefits for the local economy, especially here in the North West where we have such a fantastic sporting culture.
“The world increasingly looks for UK expertise in sport, whether in competition, recreational pursuits or the goods and services which make sport at all levels possible.”