GYMSHARK IS A $1.45BILLION BRAND - HOW IT HAPPENED

This was the most incredible day of my life. Thank you to everyone who has supported us this far. Gymshark is an incredible brand and one that I hope will continue to change the world.
I'm sharing my story as an entrepreneur and I hope this will help inform, and inspire you to pursue your dreams.
As always, please like, comment and subscribe and follow me on my other socials!
Follow me:
/ benfrancis
/ gymshark
/ benfrancis1992
/ benfrancisgs
Check out my website:
benfrancis.com
MusicBed Sync ID: MB01DOZ4SPOYL74

[@BenFrancis]

If you're looking for even more information about the deal and what went into it, check out kzbin.info/www/bejne/fZTNp31qj62fgs0&t - a podcast Noel and I did recently on the channel going into all the details!

[@WRLDINVSN]

Keep going! HUGE!

[@leeorr9071]

Ben I take my hat of too u kid and god bless you and ur family and I hope ur the biggest place in gym shark 🦈 x

[@leeorr9071]

Ben you should get Logan Paul and Jake Paul to wear ur stuff they have millions of fans on KZbin and there getting into boxing big time so if I was you get them to wear ur stuff to smash American 🇺🇸 good luck kid

[@YouTube]

What an incredible story, Congratulations Ben!

[@zeyanzabir6889]

fucking hell its youtube themself

[@ipolarisi2381]

Oh shit, its the five-0

[@SaidGherbi]

When KZbin is watching your video on KZbin.

[@florisdewalvis1939]

Never seen youtube comment ever .-.

[@smilyb0y94]

It’s the KZbin A.i commenting

[@freddy_666]

If there ever was a person to aspire to be like in business, mate it is definitely you. Congratulations!!

[@lukeferguson9010]

Just wish the clothes were made in uk and quality was looked on to improve but who am i to say anything about a 1.45 billion valued business now. Congratulations just hated that you supporter blm which is a terrorist marxist communist organisation

[@infinitegalaxy271]

Luke Ferguson yeah I support their message about equality for all races but not the way they are doing it

[@lukeferguson9010]

Infinite Galaxy their is equality it’s just made up so when all else has failed can use it as an excuse. Cambridge university is the most diverse uni in the uk and white working class are expected less into unis and have had funding help turned away but stormzy is allowed to donate for blacks. Just an example. Two tier system. Sick of this race baiting bollox

[@Auriskb]

Ignore what I’m about to say but if uououf

[@Auriskb]

Luke Ferguson uoguoguouuouoguoguouooguouououugog

[@gregdoucette]

He must of worked harder than last time.

[@CrewAesthetics]

Hahaha coach Greg 😂

[@Bswairbrush]

Good to see you here dad

[@SimeonStt]

Greg lowkey wants the gymshark sponsorship 😂

[@Bswairbrush]

@@SimeonStt correction its symshark

[@AmY-gm2qs]

have a day off Greg Jesus Christ

[@TristanDefeuilletVang]

So freaking inspiring

[@alaiaomanu6318]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eZamfIqCrs2IeMk

[@gaelboxing2194]

Moi je comprend rien punaise !! 😢🤣

[@on9francisyu]

it is amazing story

[@dylanwilliams747]

He is in the top 1% but acts more humble than 99% of the world and also the most open billionaire

[@alistairhomewood7344]

@E H nah not quite

[@johnj3905]

You think 1 in 100 people are billionaires?

[@alistairhomewood7344]

@@johnj3905 frr, top one percent is people that earn around 500k I think

[@RaphyJmusic]

@@johnj3905 😂😂

[@samdunn3814]

E H i think he owns 70% of gymshark so he's a billionaire.

[@ozilchauhan2.0]

The owner is down to earth, He cares his employees, He taking fitness on next level, He is Ben God bless you

[@kgal1298]

@Ignore what I’m about to say but It'd be interesting to hear that for sure, but business partnerships are so not easy. I had a falling out with an old partner and now I'm back to 9-5 which I'm grateful for in this current climate, but yeah everyone has a story I'm sure my partner feels wrong just as I do when we fell apart.

[@lukeferguson9010]

Just wish the clothes were made in uk and quality was looked on to improve but who am i to say anything about a 1.45 billion valued business now. Congratulations just hated that you supporter blm which is a terrorist marxist communist organisation

[@Thecrazygamers2000]

@Ignore what I’m about to say but my man still got 100 mil

[@reviveproject]

might be just smart marketing

[@sombodyoncetoldmetheworldis]

Hey Siri, show me work ethic 👌

[@swoldiernation]

Huge congrats Ben, its hard to even put into words something that quantifies and describes this achievement and journey. Humble beginnings, a rockstar team and nothing but a bigger future to come. Its been amazing to be on this journey with you and Gymshark!

[@joyhacks6156]

Ben is a Great Business men

[@joyhacks6156]

I am super proud

[@joyhacks6156]

Ben is Savage a Business

[@joyhacks6156]

He knows to market

[@ApeGodGaming]

Who would think that man has a $1.5 billion company. So humble and extremely hard working. Deserves all the success he has and more.

[@kriswayne7938]

So what's his worth?

[@bushtruck]

Just started my channel where I take trucks into the mountains and bag on em, I just want to make people laugh.

[@trevorleeoakley7434]

See CH and the accounts. After the first year there was 57k cash, 125k in stock and 90K profit. I am unsure why he says that he was making all the items and hand delivering them when he had this level of finance after the first year - that is more money than many companies have after years of trade.

[@David-vn4qu]

kris wayne 700million stake

[@monicale8951]

I love how Ben continually acknowledges Lewis and gives credit to him even after he left the company. Respect ✊

[@JoBlakeLisbon]

Agree - I've been in business with a friend before and he was essentially a fucking weasel.

[@emcee1337]

Lewis did the right thing. 100m quid gross ... that should be enough for him and 3+ generations after him if he won’t blow it. As far as the evaluation goes ... a lot of hot air for investors. The long term successful companies (like aldi, Walmart) are family owned and keep their money within.

[@malik6318]

Lewis is probably punching the air right now

Lewis shareholding would have continue to grow in wealth. A few years he could have sold for 300 million or more.

[@chinadashauthority65]

@chris Walmart has shareholders so you can’t say it’s family owned

[@whataderk]

It’s all about social media marketing. Using influencers to grow your brand was the most genius move ever on Ben’s part.

[@chinadashauthority65]

It’s a lot more about the timing. At the time the fitness industry from merch to KZbin personalities to competitions was slowly beginning to blow up. It’s very natural that a high quality brand like Gymshark profits tremendously from this. Using influencers is a good strategy but it doesn’t mean you could open a fitness brand and use influencers and become Gymshark. That train has left the station

[@feedmeramen6816]

Hater Reps yeah it was original back then but now everyone else is doing it in fitness everywhere lol

[@whataderk]

Hater Reps timing or not, Ben did something that no one else was doing and became a billionaire in his 20’s. Google, Microsoft, Facebook were made by 20 years with a dream and a plan. Ben took an idea that no one else had and created an industry! Don’t be bitter.

[@butterfliesarepretty806]

Mannn, I dont know this guy but I'm genuinely sooo happy for him. This is every entrepreneur's dream! It makes me really happy that he's been able to get this far with his brand, especially when none of it was handed to him in a silver spoon. He deserves so much more, good luck to you and all the best for Gymshark!💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚

[@BenFrancis]

Thank you so much!

[@emeritolopes]

@@BenFrancis is a truly inspiration. I'm trying to do something in different sector and his videos keeps motivating me day by day. I'm in London and I hope I can meet you in Birmingham and have a cool chat with you. Respect.

[@TheStressD]

@@BenFrancis I love seeing British companies have such world wide success. I hope Gymshark stays British and will be here for many generations making it just as big as Nike or Adidas ect. Nothing worse than seeing big British companies being sold off. I think now is the time Britain starts taking centre stage and create more successful Billion pound companies. I wish even more success, keep up the good work mate.

[@adamwalsh5285]

Never seen anyone show this much detail about such a massive brand.

[@ahollatz]

Most (retail) companies do this kind of keystone conversation with employees and their shareholders. They are required to. Paper, and/or public forum. Video conferencing is the recent popular choice over the past 10 years. I had to sit through these working at pier 1. They have to disclose their financials, legal and liabilities, and future visions and projections. KZbin makes sense to do this, because this is where they interact the most business dealings.

[@SwoleakhulTheBlind]

Mate you’re a work horse. 8 years from making product at home to a global company worth 1.4 billion. Good shit, everyone trying to start a business should take some pointers here. Also 70% of a 1.45 billion business, man’s a billionaire 😅 From bedroom to Billionaire, astonishing and inspirational.

[@itsyuddy]

he owns 70% now tho

[@SwoleakhulTheBlind]

itsyuddy yeah already edited it. Commented too soon 😅

[@SwoleakhulTheBlind]

Gabriel Arquillo Agreed, why would he sell it‘s his baby. He built it in his living room.

[@lukeferguson9010]

Just wish the clothes were made in uk and quality was looked on to improve but who am i to say anything about a 1.45 billion valued business now. Congratulations just hated that you supporter blm which is a terrorist marxist communist organisation

[@kieranartus2471]

Gabriel Arquillo x

[@Derek-Hicks]

I remember the original clothing ad in a magazine with the shark flexing its arm logo and thought it was a terrible logo and what is a shark in a gym all about? He’s now got a billion dollar brand and I still work in a factory 😂

[@slack.]

You know he’s legit when he’s not telling us to buy his ‘online guru course’.

[@tyeben]

Ben should have a knighthood a shining example of British entrepreneurship

[@krrhys]

ben tye totally agree

[@ShishirGaire]

Shipping cheap made Chinese clothing designed in the UK is a shining example of British entrepreneurship?

[@ThinkAbstract]

@@ShishirGaire Hating ass fuakers like u r in endless supply. Disgusting creatures

[@CookiePire]

Shish pretty much how entrepreneurs are yeah LOL

[@kgal1298]

@@ShishirGaire Unfortunately some of the best textiles now come out of China or India. The factory life of workers is relatively sad of course, but I hope at some point the company will work on sustainability efforts, but they'd be hard-pressed to get their profit margins without using China factories or textiles for their operations.

[@ashleykettle343]

take notice of how Ben says ''WE'' not ''I'' when he talks about the brand, even when talking about the very beginning.

[@goodkisser8591]

Yes, as does literally every single owner of a company. It’s nothing magical and inspirational, it’s just basic linguistics when talking about a whole company. Take notice of how Ben doesn’t mention the unethical Chinese labour being used to manufacture all their clothing. It’s all publicly documented by law, but of course he’d leave out that bit wouldn’t he? Doesn’t really fit with the whole inspirational marketing campaign here.

[@ashleykettle343]

@@goodkisser8591 That's a very good point, however unethical as you see it to be, I don't see you or anyone wanting to pay a premium for clothing. Those $30 joggers jump all the way up to support a western salery

[@katielopez4104]

Yes, not like alphalete.

[@arthurtheaardvark13]

@@goodkisser8591 As someone whose family is from a very small, rural area in China, I cannot see how it is unethical that brands contract out their labour to workers who have no other employment opportunities and live in poverty. There's a reason why many of these factories in third or second world countries have massive lines of people asking for jobs outside the front doors. People living in these areas have very little options when it comes to employment, and so while it may seem like unethical labour to you, it's actually a very liveable wage for those living in rural areas and helps them out a ton. Take those factories away and you pretty much kill off everyone's livelihoods.

[@Barnzah]

@@arthurtheaardvark13 While for those poor workers it may seem like a positive, however they are still exploited. Just because they are happy with the money they are making does not mean it is fair and ethical. It's an issue with those countries not enforcing minimum amounts companies pay their employees.

[@gymshark]

What a journey it has been so far 💙

[@Lozh1993]

Awesome brand. Honestly the way you run is exactly how I want my business to run

[@gavinn.4060]

fuck you guys for pushing unattainable body standards for both men and women

[@GangsterDolphins]

@@gavinn.4060 you just have bad genetics

[@gavinn.4060]

@@GangsterDolphins youre just deluded

[@ethanboucher83]

@@gavinn.4060 what a hateful person.

[@JamesandKiimmy]

Congratulations to everyone at Gymshark! All that hard work, dedication & none stop hustle has paid off 🎉 keep changing the game and we look forward to seeing what happens next 😁

[@BenFrancis]

Thank you! 😀

[@IrishPablo94]

Pure luck ,there products arnt even nice looking

[@el33t76]

@@IrishPablo94 clearly you aren’t active then - it’s easily the best fitting and feeling gym wear I own

[@IrishPablo94]

@@el33t76 under armour and nike mate

[@GiovanaGuidousa]

That's amazing Ben! Congratulations! I'm starting my own brand in Brazil and you are my biggest inspiration! 🤩🏋️‍♂️🤗

[@RicardoBubel]

qual o nome da sua marca ?

[@nthabisengmakena]

The editor, brilliant work.

[@jamesperrett6022]

Thank you, glad you enjoyed it!! 😊

[@akaMythics]

@@jamesperrett6022 would love to potentially work on something with you in the future. If your interested and could put aside some time to do so, please message me on twitter My Twitter : @akaMythics

[@tomparker481]

Ben did a better job

[@jamesperrett6022]

@@tomparker481 Probably, but it's hard for him to be at the top of a company and edit his own videos ey.

[@Amit-bs2tm]

@@jamesperrett6022 lol

[@ChucktheCG]

The culture and transparency is incredible, not to mention that the clothing holds up to all the wear and tear you can throw at them. I got items from years ago that I still really love wearing and for these reasons I 100% want to work with Gymshark some time in the future

[@daplug8636]

I remember when this company was very new, and to now be a billion dollar company is crazy. Hats off to you brother.

[@Moons_mooniverse]

Owning 70% of a business that’s valuated at $1.45 Billion means Ben is personally $1.015 Billion worth 👍

[@Steve-mj5yj]

So let me get this straight... Ben brings Steve and Paul in to scale Gymshark, then they walk away with less of the company than they originally signed on for after their first serious funding round, meanwhile Ben bumps up his equity another 3%? ... mine mine mine mine my precioussss What a brilliant way to reward the two people that have “completely and utterly revolutionized the business.” I think there are some sharks in the boardroom, and he’s probably gonna drown after eating too many of its own fishies in a few years. I mean either that or Steve and Paul willingly sold some of their shares... which would indicate they don’t have long term confidence in the business, and will probably leave soon either way. Also 21% seems quite high to me being at the stage General Atlantic entered and how well Gymshark was scaling (seemingly). I smell something fishy in the cash flow. Ok, I think I got that straight now. Just my interpretation. Carry on KZbinrs.

[@malachi1243]

Steve i agree

[@alimosley85]

@@Steve-mj5yj perhaps part of the deal involved those two guys selling some of their shares but taking a larger salary and maybe they didnt want their financial gain publicised?

[@Steve-mj5yj]

@Ali Mosley Sure, thats a possibly. But why would the “right” investor want to push out the two guys that helped bring Gymshark to £1 Billion? Also doesn’t improve Ben’s position, having majority vote, he could have protected his top two lieutenants from being diluted to less than half their original stake when they brought a VC on board. That’s like Ben essentially saying “Thanks for all your hard work, but we don’t see a future for you here. We need to free up even more equity to give back to, well, me. So take one for the one-man team, sell your shares and take an almost entirely salary-based compensation.” So that would just prove that Ben didn’t have the backbone to renegotiate the terms of the round and instead let General Atlantic take its first step towards taking the reins, eventually from Ben too. Doesn’t sound like the “right” investor to me. Its funny cause so many people are praising him for his transparency but if that were the case there wouldn’t be so many elephants in the room. Do we know about what happened between him and his cofounder? Cause it feels like it is happening to Steve and Paul. He’s a good marketer I’ll give him that - but he’s a terrible leader.

[@RaphyJmusic]

@@Steve-mj5yj Yeah it was weird to me too seeing those two dudes seemingly step back, I wonder why/how

[@sicario_paintball]

Don’t you love it when the owner is humble and not a cocky POS. More success to ya mate. Well deserved.

[@BenFrancis]

Thank you! 😀

[@tommypark2522]

The fact he's taken on new investors and has increased his hold on the business 🤣🤯🤯

[@ExoticTuber]

Absolute bossman

[@Whowannabeu]

BS. How do you take on more investors without diluting your share of the business?

[@tommypark2522]

@@Whowannabeu he made the others have less shares

[@tommypark2522]

@@Whowannabeu was a couple people with some shares so he moved theirs about to accommodate for new investors

[@ashtechs9303]

He bought Lewis’s shareholding for £100 million. At a 1.45 billion valuation he’s bought the 20% relatively cheaply. 290 million dollars is £219 million. So makes sense he can afford to take a bigger share holding. Which ever way he did it. Congratulations to him. So much achieved so quickly. 👏🏽

[@itsmike9227]

This is so inspiring, a company/brand coming from humble beginnings to being valued at 1 billion

[@Stern4EVERx]

Basically most companies nth new

[@kociamber149]

This is how many more billions they'll get. ⬇️

[@HardcoreNaturalFitness]

Next get into shoe industry GYMSHARK and give best quality at affordable prices and see those billions multiply

[@TheKingofdans]

@@HardcoreNaturalFitness true that. Football boots and all that stuff.

[@victorbeysmith]

Ben has 70%. Business is worth $1.45B. Ben is a Billionaire...

[@venomtang]

err, that's not how valuations work, it's based on future potential ROI over years, not about cash in the bank, unfortunately

[@victorbeysmith]

@@venomtang I'm pretty sure that he would be, considering his position at Gymshark. He could theoretically sell his shares and people would be willing to pay over 1 billion in exchange for them. Correct me if I'm wrong. I just started an advanced course on valuation, so still new to this

[@skaya5445]

Wikipedia: Ben is worth £700 Million

[@perrymarshall8584]

@@victorbeysmith I agree, inventory is part of a company's working capital. Inventory is classified as current assets because it is typically consumed within a year as part of the production process, wouldn't this mean he is worth over a billion, if his current shares are over 70%?

[@rafi10539]

​@@perrymarshall8584 On paper his value of shares in the company is worth a billion but doesn't include the complications of selling the shares. For instance to sell all the shares at once he wouldn't achieve the same price and it doesn't include the captial gains taxes for selling them.

[@80X20FitnessXFinance]

Sounds like radical transparency, that Ray Dalio speaks of. Respect.

[@kidbrown2010]

This video literally sent chills down my spine. It's one thing when a successful person talks about the humble beginnings, but another one is to see with your own eyes that person, as pretty much a kid, doing all the groundwork himself. Sewing, sending the packages. It's incredible.

[@dmodeejay]

SENSATIONAL! INSPIRATIONAL! KEEP PUSHING! THERE IS NO LIMIT!!

[@BenFrancis]

Yes bro 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼

[@Petrolheadd-u2u]

@@BenFrancis makes you proud to be a brummie ❤🙌

[@mw599]

Great to see mention of Lewis! This really was a transparent video and massive respect to you, Ben!

[@jaymackenzie7266]

@Ignore what I’m about to say but how? He left the company on his own choice and got a 100m payout.

[@AceYYC]

​@Ignore what I’m about to say but I mean.... 100 million pounds is decent eh

[@salmanpatel914]

Nah he didnt, his happy.

[@oakplankmemes8176]

Jay Mackenzie not only the 100m for his shares but he’s held them since the beginning so he’s been taking 20% of the profits each year so he’s got far more than just that

[@mw599]

oakplankmemes and also. Lewis is not the kind of guy to sit back and do nothing with his money. He has been building houses on bigger and bigger plots for years. Now he has £100m to play with. Trust me. Lewis will turn that £100m into £500m

[@camerahack1986]

This is emotional and inspiring wow! I can’t believe it from a Pizza Hut delivery guy to a billionaire dollar clothing brand holy shit

[@TheNine375]

This type of transparency is unheard of! Kudos to probably one of the most humble founders out there

[@akiechhabra114]

Absolutely 100% a real-life example of a down-to-earth successful entrepreneur who doesn't want to sell out to a venture capital fund, be involved in the business day & night and keep building on the DREAM he had! Ben, you're an inspiration mate and you'll be spoken about for years to come!

[@BenFrancis]

Thank you, really appreciate the support!

[@aestheticspower]

Bought my first gymshark clothing 2 years ago, from the first day I become a part of the Gymshark family. Will continue buying stuff from you. Really comfy clothes.

[@BenFrancis]

Thank you so much!

[@nickatic]

"Lewis sold the remainder of his shareholding for £100m." - He must have been happy with that!

[@jrh5544]

Imagine if he stayed a couple more years, could’ve been upwards of 300mill. Bet he’s punching the air right now

[@bubbacalling]

@@jrh5544 yeah but at those numbers what does it take to make someone happy? Can someone even spend 100mill in a lifetime?

[@jrh5544]

@@bubbacalling lmao you could easily spend 100 mill in a lifetime 😂 just spend wisely

[@juliandevries024]

@@jrh5544 do you watch his podcast? bro hes chilling

[@KingJuniorofficial]

🙏🏾💯 AMAZING ☝🏾

[@BenFrancis]

Thank you!

[@mkaasim]

Show me another owner of a billion dollar company who would take out time from his busy schedule to teach and explain his vision... 💯💯. Congratulations Ben!

[@kriswayne7938]

What's his net worth?

[@adammayson4049]

Bill Gates

[@a.s.1.2]

yea but then this is marketing as well, this will get him more money,,,I am not saying he is not genuine, you cannot tell, it's like donating money to charity while making a video,,,well why are you making the video if the act itself is the only thing that matters,,,,,,,you get the point, but hard work pays off so he deserves it !!!

[@vicvanityfit2963]

Me

[@frxxxxx]

@@kriswayne7938 10m USD he's networth but the company worth billions

[@MyMateNate]

Interested in the APAC expansion!! Stoked to see how that unfolds, and if you need any help for the Thai market, let me know ;)

[@Robertas919]

Of course he will let you know from reading a yt comments... I bet he has no time for it. Just reach him out if you serious about it..

[@stanleyhoh3309]

It’s hard to fathom how discipline Ben is in order for him to have his business, relationship, fitness all in check. Most importantly, at such a young age! Can’t wait to see him grow even more! Keep grinding Ben!

[@Jiggsy-1981]

I’ve heard of the brand, but had know idea how successful the brand actually was!! Congrats to you and your team Ben. What an amazing achievement.

[@BenFrancis]

Thanks so much!!

[@BlueStarNutraceuticals]

🙌👏🔥 Congrats Ben and team! Huge accomplishment. Couldn't be happier for ya!!!

[@BenFrancis]

😀 Thank you!

[@mattstirling2066]

@@BenFrancis Big congrats from all of us! You deserve it, man!!!

[@asim]

As a fellow business owner, thanks for putting out this content. I can't tell you how informative and useful it is. The transparency from someone running such a large company is very unique. Appreciate you for that.

[@SaketGokhaleVlogs]

This is HUGE. A big congratulations to you & the team. Keep spreading your vision, you’re an inspiration 🎊

[@BenFrancis]

Thank you! We will do!

[@baldy6275]

saket i love your content, love from california

[@loganpaul6655]

Christian Guzman is probably watching this with furious motivation lol

[@8brayant]

Alphalete I feel was modeled after gymshark minus how Christian does exclusive launches

[@joecold8200]

Alphalete is very similar to Gymshare in the way it its built, actually everything he keeps doing is what gymshark already did. They are about 2-5 years behind depending on their moves.

[@Keefeology]

kittieconvoy I didn’t know you could search up Alphalete and get their items for less than 10% of the sale price via Alibaba. I tried searching for it, and was unable find anything. Would you be able to share more?

[@8095jleon]

Keith Chiu google and you find everything. You can literally go to alibaba and type alphalete and find some of their product. In other cases you look Up the material and find the manufacturer

[@nguyenly3847]

@kittieconvoy you can find fake Alphalete on Alibaba and those items are the dupes fake from the collection years ago. T shirt, tank top and sweat pants from Male can be found but I bet you can't find any leggings from Alphalete up there. Simple, they are not manufactured in China, they manufactured in Turkey as far as I know

[@WRLDINVSN]

This is HUGE! We started very similar to you! Only 12 SHIRTS now we have a 10,000 sq ft warehouse!

[@DakotaSchuetz1996]

Incredible story and video Ben

[@DamienBroderick]

should open a store in Ireland, Gym gear is literally uniform for people over here, even if they don't have a gym membership. a store in Dublin would make a killing! Also, you're a legend mate. such an inspiration to anyone esp a young person with a dream!

[@Figures-us9wt]

Exactly bro even just a department type store so overheads would be lower cos brick and mortor aren't as profitable any more

[@nathan9048]

@@Figures-us9wt its all online

[@Figures-us9wt]

@@nathan9048 ino bro meant like supplying in jd or sum in Ireland cos there is none or sum

[@elliotfinley4277]

Not an Irish trend.

[@DamienBroderick]

Elliot Finley I beg to differ. I’ve worked in the fashion industry in Ireland for 10+ years. The only reason more people in Ireland don’t wear gym shark is because places like penneys do cheap gym clothing. Tracksuits are all anyone in Ireland wears and women just wear leggings and a top. Gym leisure clothing is the only fashion trend thst is in Ireland has has been here for years. And will continue to be here for years to come.

[@THEECOMKING]

This Is What You Call: British Entrepreneurship Excellence 👑🇬🇧🔥

[@MrOptimisticc]

Damn Lewis got out with a 100m,*madness

[@ronaldbear1]

MrOptimisticc how come? It didn’t say that anywhere

[@connordgr8]

@@ronaldbear1 right at the end

[@ronaldbear1]

Connor McCarthy ah yeah

[@littlelawson06]

@@ronaldbear1 Bottom right of the screen at 7:44

[@dl1357]

Fair play.. though if gymshark continues to grow which i believe it will, with a 20% stake he had he could probably get that 100 million in 3-5 years time if he stayed.

[@AaronKnightley]

This video will make any entrepreneur come away totally inspired! ABSOLUTELY love this and the journey Ben has been on! Still hoping he will join me on my Knightley’s Round Table as guest one day 🙏🏻👍🏻

[@BenFrancis]

Thank you Aaron, really appreciate the comment and the support 😀

[@AaronKnightley]

Ben Francis 🙌🏻👍🏻

[@davidteres9463]

I heard about Gymshark in 2016 from Matt Ogus

[@alaiaomanu6318]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/sHiQgnltg96gjKs

[@MeZzZzZzZzZzZzZzZzZ]

I still remember when you first sponsored matt ogus. Why oh why didnt I inquire to get involved then. Happy for your success.

[@Lagspike99]

My same thoughts. I was pretty young but I was interested in entrepreneurship & fitness yet somehow that opportunity passed in front of my eyes.

[@eon001]

Ryan Reynolds makes $600 million on his Gin. Ben Francis "Hold my protein shake".

[@inthedms82]

He didn't make 600 million it sold for that much and he had a piece of the pie

[@eon001]

@@inthedms82 Bro don't that guy that spoils a joke with facts. lol

[@inthedms82]

eon001 lol

[@LaurenTickner]

Watch out Elon Musk! This is INCREDIBLE, Ben! So truly deserved. You are an exceptional entrepreneur who knows your weaknesses and strengths.

[@Viewerknown]

"literally, 1% of people who read my comment May there parents live more than 100 years🤗🤗💖💖💖💖.....

[@jordylaird3165]

How desperate are you for likes mygod

[@justinjayden12]

If gymshark is worth 1.45 billion, and ben owns 70%, that would make ben a billionaire

[@alexxbobber71]

Depends on the liabilities of the company

[@georgephillips7207]

Ben, you’re such an inspiration me and to so many others. It’s incredible to see your passion, drive and ambition. Thank you for continuing to share your journey with us. There’s an exciting road ahead for Gymshark 🙌🏻

[@barankalayci]

I bought your first product about 7-8 years ago and I still keep it! I have a clothing brand and I put out my best, inspiring !!!

[@Dobbyyy94]

Only OG's remember the original gym shark logo with the shark showing his bicep 😎

[@rubyred93chev]

And they'll remember a very young Texas couple that were their brand Ambassadors. Today Christian Guzman is reaping the benefit of a decent clothing brand, and gym, while his former partner is recognized by being the very first female brand spokesperson ever for GYMSHARK, and still represents the brand.

[@DyingforColor]

This guy is so intelligent! He knew what he had to do and didn’t let fear hold him back. He had a vision and work his butt off! Congratulations on your success. Such a inspiration 😃

[@BenFrancis]

Thank you! Really appreciate your comment 😀

[@itswilly9043]

OK he's the first youtube billionaire yea

[@imdeexpert5828]

You forgot bill gates? Might want to check his channel out. He posts regularly

[@TayoAinaFilms]

I have followed your brand for quite some time now. What you guys are building and have built is Amazing!

[@BenFrancis]

Thank you Tayo, really appreciate the support!

[@TheAymoneShow]

He has huge investors. The perks of being white. It’s easy for other rich white people to believe in you! Imagine dangote investing in your channel and helping you produce content and promote all across social media. You would also have a billion dollar media marketing brand. It’s not rocket science it’s all about capital. It takes capital to get more capital. And white investors invest blindly in young white males with dreams....

[@manazirhussain4507]

@@TheAymoneShow i just see a hater

[@TheAymoneShow]

Manazir Hussain nope! There is nothing to hate. You Hussain go find an investor they would accuse you of trying to fund isis! Or worse! I’m very lucid. His whiteness is a huge part of his success because these are the type of success reserve for white children. Shokran!

[@ed1609]

@@TheAymoneShow Sis that's not how it works in UK

[@urosmiric552]

I think everyone can find inspiration in his story. No metter what career we are talking about. Congratulations for this organic success, youth should have role models like this!

[@ArekkzGaming]

Congrats Ben, this is absolutely incredible! It's been amazing to see Gymshark grow over the years - can't wait to see what's next!

[@fredthered1074]

The company revenue as of 31 July 2020 was £176m with profit of only £18m. The people valuing this company at over £1bn are valuing it based on future projections of years to come, that might not even be reached. Valuing the company at over £1bn is a stretch and making people believe the company is worth more than it currently is. All the news about being a £1bn company is a marketing ploy.

[@hyperion2963]

I think its actually to do with what General Atlantic paid him for the 20% share. He's just been paid his share of the 1.45b valuation. It might be divided up in shares and cash.. but he just got paid. Massively.

[@zachdunphy6772]

The valuation is coming from a rev/ebitda multiple of comps. Have to remember that the sponsor is going to be exiting in 3 years for their IRR, but by that time GS will probably establish brick & mortar, increase production, etc.

[@kelbz2007]

Its EBITDA Value...

[@inthedms82]

How do you think other companies are evaluated, look at Tesla or Netflix that have zero profit but are worth in the 100s of billions

[@inthedms82]

Nathan Peters exactly you get it bro

[@jackwatkins3]

Hands down the best video you’ve done (Ben & James) well executed and moving. Honoured to be apart of the journey.

[@aliabdaal]

incredible scenes

[@The9to5ers]

You are an inspiration bro, your work ethic has stayed consistent and you have reaped your rewards💥

[@BenFrancis]

Thank you so much 😀

[@giuls19891]

It’s so wild that I bought the first design of joggers that Ben ever made and I still have them to this day. Watching this brand grow since day one is amazing

[@BenFrancis]

That's amazing!! Thank you for the support 😀

[@oliviamaryj]

I’ve just bought stock for my own brand & my own sewing machine whilst being at university, I’m launching my brand next month this is so inspiring!

[@geethunder1]

Awesome and congrats on the launch of your new brand! Good luck

[@oliviamaryj]

Omj drip on Instagram if you’d like to follow my journey !

[@NateOBrien]

This is next level inspiration

[@iWillLift]

Never EVER EVER going to forget the scenes where you hand stitching, packing and delivering the OG Gymshark orders... The EXCITEMENT of getting those items back than, nothing can compare to it from any new launches, it's the OG memories... Watching every single one of your vlogs, seeing you getting more and more and more comfortable talking in front of the camera and a big audience, till now you are just a master of public speech, it's just incredible, well done Ben, thanks for changing and shaping the fitness community to it's current state, we just getting started.

[@vickypang94]

When will y’all IPO so that public investors can invest in Gymshark too? I’d definitely wanna put money in a brand that I believe in!!

[@HerrFuuuu]

Honestly same

[@martinjulius3831]

This shows how powerful KZbin branding can be! 💪It started with free clothing to fitness youtubers like Matt Ogus, Jeff Seid, Christian Guzman etc. Who promoted it in their videos. 📽️ Hard work pays off 💸💹

[@MuchMoreDK]

Exactly!

[@belenavila9705]

he even inspired Christian Guzman to start his own. Hard work pays off 🙏🏼

[@martinjulius3831]

@@belenavila9705 yeah, and that's a pretty big business too

[@BenFrancis]

Exactly! Thank you for your support 😁

[@m9u7shuriken]

I have a feeling that Lewis was forced to sell his share...

[@niftyflex]

Super crazy success story! When you're talking about the future and growth, I would have enjoyed seeing statements about how you want to make gymshark a more sustainable company while growing, thinking about your role in global climate change. I love my gymshark clothes but also care about the environment. Hoping to see this addressed in future videos.

[@HouseMusicMixChanel]

It's just amazing how far you've come. I remember buying the old hoodie and sweatpants back in early 2014. Just amazing!

[@GymPerformance]

I'm still having two of those old school shirts that were manually printed and have a tag from a generic clothing brand attached. :D

[@davestopa999]

I thought he hand stitched his clothing... Either you have a counterfeit shirt or he's full of sh*t.

[@darylhurst1145]

@@davestopa999 he altered generic off the rail no name clothes at the start

[@Figures-us9wt]

@@darylhurst1145 exactly and here's my man thinking he sowed all the clothes 🤣

[@chilltraptastic4091]

This dude became a billionaire in 8 years.... Wow, much respect. I remember seeing Gymshark for the first time in a Hodge twins video, never thought this could become a billion dollar business.

[@geethunder1]

Exactly right and just goes to show you can put your heart and soul into something and have it pay huge dividends

[@bow5326]

What a refreshing and unexpected story and from such a level headed young man too. I knew nothing about GYMSHARK until I watched my favourite bodybuilder (KZbinr) Chikara Transformations model her newly bought GYMSHARK gear just now, and this video came up in my recommended bar. I used to work for G-Star, but they were nowhere this transparent. I really hope the whole covid-19 situation doesn't affect your business too much, good luck!

[@marlonlima6072]

This is insane, being from Birmingham, mid blowing to know a guy from your city at your age has a 10year old company worth of 1B, SUPERRRRRRRR AMAZED AND HUMBLE FOR YOUR SUCCESS

[@JHR420]

So surely this makes Ben a Billionaire? 70% of a $1,450,000,000 values him at $1,015,000,000 (ONE BILLION DOLLARS). Somebody please explain if I misunderstand.

[@Jamflee]

The company isn’t turning over a billion dollars its a future projection over a certain amount of time what it can potentially be worth

[@JHR420]

reytw no he said it’s worth that

[@bensinclair2185]

Who would think that man has a $1.5 billion company. So humble and extremely hard working. Deserves all the success he has and more.

[@MCJimboy10]

From pizza delivery driver to billionaire in 8 years.

[@MCJimboy10]

@@joejohnstone2241 Yes he is. He owns 70% (or whatever the exact shareholding was) of a company worth $1.45b. If he was to liquidate his assets (stakehold in GymShark) it would yield him over a billion$. Why do you say he's not.. because he's not in cash?

[@shutthefuckup8782]

@@MCJimboy10 its just a marketing ploy. His business is worth less than 200m with a profit of 18m a year. Anyone can start a company and list its shares for a billion each but it doeant mean its worth that much.

[@MCJimboy10]

@@joejohnstone2241 Oh right. You're a troll.

[@MCJimboy10]

​@@joejohnstone2241 If you don't think you are being a dick then you have a problem. He is less than 10% away from owning a billion dollar company and you say that is "not even in the ballpark".

[@drewhuster1389]

Let’s say that he’s definitely a millionaire

[@calvz7871]

I just started my dropshipping store this year and it's reminded me so much of when I used to watch your journey years ago Ben when you first started your business doing something similar. You're truly an inspiration to young entrepreneurs and I just want to tell you how proud and happy I am being able to share your journey. Congratulations ben, ill see you at the top!

[@Igorzivanovicc]

9:13 I would love to see Gymshark's transparency on performance enhancing drugs

[@hooha9588]

😂😂

[@lumiere930]

Lol one thing the fitness industry will never be transparent about. Would be nice though

[@ianfreeman5087]

Pure motivation if there ever was any. Goes to show that every idea or dream should be pursued. Great achievement and also great products too.

[@Jabaa007]

The. Co-founder who dropped out early is punching the air rn 😅😅 damn

[@supplydemand7718]

He sold his share for £100m. Im sure hes more than fine lol

[@conmancleall0]

He seemed like he really wanted out. Would like to know the story behind that. You don't just get up and go from that. £100m sell out was probably worth it though.

[@Theo070596]

Screwed poor Paul and Steve over a little there then? Unless you paid for there share reduction?

[@cpmc5400]

He got to leave all responsibility in the business for years and ended up making £100m. He'll survive.

[@SWAYLAB]

Amazing! Congratulations to you and the team! What you are doing is smart. Always keep more than 51% of your business so that you will have majority of control. 70% is 🙌 keep up the great work. Can’t wait to see what’s next.

[@BenFrancis]

Thank you!! 😀

[@minjabens]

You deserve this Ben! You’re truly inspirational. Did Lewis receive the 100m £ when he quit in 2016 or did he sell his 20% stake for 100m £ after this deal?

[@thescope7079]

@Maxedwardsart when the valuation was done, for some reason it probably came to £500,000,000 and then perhaps somehow General Atlantic added value post Lewis leaving hence its now worth £1,500,000,000 which means General Atlantic are going to add £1,000,000,000 in value in what they will do to GymShark

[@RevenueSharePartner]

*congrats, so many people struggle in fitness niche but ben is such a genius he on his way to become multi billionaire, Starting a business is so hard but being a unicorn, wow 😮 that is unbelievable, you are an inspiration, in future I hope you get more success because you're transparent, I have no words to describe you*

[@edgartj17]

I remember watching Gymshark with the original logo back in 2013 and 2014, hodge twins sold it to me. The way they describe the shirts “ look how it fits your body, it shows your cuts, it shows your veins, it shows your muscles, it shows what you got! It shows all the damn gains you been making at the gym! “

[@lexesco]

Essentially General Atlantic bought out a founder which isnt common. A VC would rather see money go into the business to grow the business not to make someone rich. So they essentially believe Gymshark is doing so well already financially and want to be on for the ride. Which is a testament to Gymshark really!

[@gmat_5664]

Growth Equity is typically a minority stake taken by a Private Equity/VC firm. I think the reason GA was able to buy out a founder (Lewis) ended up being more coincidental than purposeful. As you mentioned, Gymshark has been incredibly successful so clearly GA came in with the intention of making money off their investment, that's the whole point. People seem to talk about whether a PE firm like GA would come in for money or growth when in reality the two are by no means mutually exclusive. Like Ben mentioned in the video, there were various firms trying to invest in his brand and it came down to three strong choices. GA won because they demonstrated to Ben they have an authentic desire to grow Gymshark and work alongside him to achieve the vision he has for his brand, while everyone makes a fuk ton of money doing it. Plus you should consider what a PE firm really brings to the table, a ton of capital to help with complex strategic decisions such as navigating international expansion or potential acquisitions as well as tons of knowledge and experience in the world of high finance that neither Ben nor anyone else working at Gymshark has. Ben is able to grow his company while having the financial and strategic backing of GA allowing Gymshark to be a far more versatile company and achieve sustainable and mission-oriented growth.

[@gmat_5664]

@ For sure for sure, Ben made huge moves as did GA. I thought it was pretty cool to see Ben acknowledge his strengths and weaknesses when it came to running his company as well. I'm sure that he is happy to be focused on the more creative and strategic thinking instead of being involved in the day to day operations of his company. He can focus on fulfilling his vision of what he would like the Gymshark brand to become while knowing that GA will make sure the right management team is in place to make the company successful. People who view investment firms, specifically PE, as just buying out and ruining companies are discrediting the many amazing firms that are amazing partners and advisors to entrepreneurs.

[@deadphoenix100]

Hi Ben, I am a running a third-party logistics company here in india. I am the founder and CEO. If you want to explore and establish in india.( Huge huge market ), I really want to help . If you are open to talk let me know.

[@theoisback]

Whats this video just makes me realize: It's Possible! Thank you for sharing the journey

[@levon12466]

Congrats man never bought amything gymshark but for someome to go 0 to billion in 8 years thats awesome

[@vincentchuvc]

Are most customers from the UK?

[@danielhu8305]

@@vincentchuvc no europe is the target area right now. But expanding to worldwide