New Manchester-based sportswear brand expands into running market
A brand new sportswear brand based in Manchester has expanded into the running market.
Backed by Levy UK and Ireland, part of FTSE 100 company Compass Group Sudu has hired design lead, Samuela Melidoni, who has worked at Adidas, JD Sports and Berghaus.
In her role as head of Design at Levy Merchandising, a new arm of Levy UK & Ireland of which Sudu sits within, Melidoni says the new running range has been designed using performance enhancing fabrics that blend functionality with aesthetic appeal.
“Across apparel, we’ve chosen lightweight, breathable, premium materials that move with you no matter the environment, so runners can effortlessly transition and layer up from trail, to about town, every day,” she said.
Based in Fourways House in the Northern Quarter in Manchester, Sudu employs 52 people across its head office, fulfilment and retail teams.
Vinny Clark, CEO of Levy Merchandising, said: “We have big aspirations to build a leading brand that not only equips individuals with the tools they need to excel in physical pursuits but also empowers mindsets with every motion.”
Sudu is teaming up with Sported, the UK’s largest network of community groups, helping over 550,000 young people overcome barriers to reach their potential. The partnership will see Sudu support initiatives to make running and sport more accessible.
Levy insist all products have been sourced ethically working with factories who have undergone stringent audit processes.
The business is now working on new products in football, fitness and a lifestyle category as well as working with Levy ambassadors and a wider advisory board to inform the creation of women’s specific product collections across categories expected to launch from early 2025.
“The Play football range will be focused on inspiring athletes to unleash their inner champions, from grassroots to the professional stage, with the Rest lifestyle range helping consumers find moments of recovery that fuel wins, recognising the power of pausing to progress. Meanwhile, the Train fitness range will bring consumers gym bag staples that make every bead of sweat a badge of honour,” Clark said.
