Early Life
Benjamin David Francis was born on June 4, 1992, in the West Midlands, England. He grew up in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, and attended South Bromsgrove High School. From a young age, Francis showed an interest in computing and began his entrepreneurial journey by starting an online business selling car number plates. He developed an interest in fitness as a teenager, recognizing the value of structure and hard work, which he later applied to other areas of his life.
Rise to Success
In 2012, at the age of 19, Ben Francis co-founded Gymshark with his school friend Lewis Morgan. The company began as a dropshipping business selling fitness supplements. Recognizing an opportunity in the market for gym-specific apparel, Francis began designing and manufacturing his own fitness clothing from his parents' garage in Bromsgrove. He used a sewing machine and screen printer, initially investing £1,000 of savings. In 2013, Gymshark's products were exhibited at the BodyPower fitness trade show in Birmingham. The company's breakthrough came when a tracksuit went viral on Facebook, generating significant sales within minutes. Francis then left university and his job at Pizza Hut to focus on Gymshark full-time. Gymshark was one of the first brands to leverage influencer marketing extensively, partnering with fitness influencers to build a strong social media presence.
Key Business Strategies
Gymshark's success can be attributed to several key strategies. They were early adopters of influencer marketing, sending free products to fitness influencers on platforms such as YouTube and Instagram. They focused on a direct-to-consumer business model, allowing them to maintain high-quality products at competitive prices. The company's headquarters is located in Solihull, England. Gymshark has expanded globally, with a presence in over 230 countries. Gymshark opened its first retail store on Regent Street in London in October 2022.
Philanthropy
While specific philanthropy amounts are unavailable, Ben Francis and his wife, Robin Gallant, have supported mental health initiatives. They raised funds for young people struggling with mental health on their wedding day.
