Le Col, a cycling apparel brand that was founded by Team GB cyclist, Yanto Barker, is nearing its £1 million funding target during the final week on Crowdcube. The company launched the campaign last month and so far raised over £870,000 from more than 175 investors.
The company, which was established in 2009 by Barker, currently manufactures in Italy and sells its products to more than ten countries in the world through a range of specialist retails, which includes Harrods cycling concession. Le Col purchased its factory in 2014 and became a self-manufacturing business. During a recent interview with Crowdcube’s Luke Lang, Barker revealed why he decided to launch Le Col:
“Firstly, I needed to build myself a job for when I retire. I had this idea when I was 28 years old so I have been preparing for a while, secondly, I truly believe we can make better products than other brands. Last of all I am inspired to work in teams that excel, and this business offers me the chance to build a team and motivate people to achieve really great results, who also enjoy and feel fulfilled in their roles.”
He then noted why he decided to go with Crowdcube for the campaign’s launch:
“I do business based on relationships. I rate good people highly and Crowdcube demonstrated a clear similarity in their values, which I noticed and appreciated. Of course, you guys have done extremely well with your business over recent years, and I hope to be able to share in some of that success with overlapping our incentives to create a successful pitch.”
Funds from Le Col’s Crowdcube initiative will go towards brand awareness and employee growth. It is set to close next Friday (January 6th).
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