Sports clothing brand VO2 seeks crowdfunding cash
A BOLTON sportswear company, which designs and makes clothing for runners, cyclists and triathletes, is trying to raise £50,000 through a crowdfunding platform.
VO2 says it wants to write a new chapter in the town’s sporting heritage – Bolton was the birthplace of the Reebok brand in 1895.
Founder Matt Tomkin, a keen athlete himself, has been working with the University of Bolton to develop a new lightweight and durable sports fabric and has applied for several patents already.
So far VO2, which has sales of nearly £90,000 in its first year, has raised more than £7,500 on Crowdcube towards its target.
Mr Tomkin said: “As a regular participant in triathlons, I realised there was a gap in the market when it comes to producing high-quality sportswear for these events. Working with athletes and scientists, we’re planning to develop apparel that will help people fulfil their potential.”
The academic expertise comes from the University of Bolton’s Professor Subhash Anand, who added: “The technical textiles are improving all the time. Innovation and creativity can really make a dent in the sportswear market.
“The possibilities for the development are huge and we’re excited about producing new designs.”
VO2 supplies kit to up-and-coming Team GB triathlete Amy Kilpin and also works with Team True Spirit, a Help For Heroes-affiliated organisation that helps injured ex-servicemen with their rehabilitation through triathlon-focused training.
