How I Started The UK's Fastest Growing Company: My Gymshark Story | Ben Francis 

Gymshark has been my entire life since I started it as a teenager. After being awarded the UK's fastest growing company by the Fastrack 100 in the Times newspaper, I've decided to document my journey as the Gymshark CEO. My first video is a brief explanation of how Gymshark started, and the work we had to put in to get it to where it is today. If anyone has any questions or anything they want to see in any future videos, please comment below! Ps. Although I am a founder and am telling this story, there is a huge team of incredible people who have contributed, and continue to contribute to Gymshark every day. I hope to be able to show you more of what the team and I do in my future videos! I hope you enjoy :)

They dropped their degrees to help you out with your business. Mate those are friends you should never, ever lose.

You can tell this guy is a hustler. Mad respect for all your work!

Holy crap! Gymshark was made by a 19 year old?! I love Gymshark products and had no idea they have only been around for a couple years and was created by a teenager. Dang that's inspirational!

Idk why I thought gymshark would be owned by some middle agged man but you like my freaking age. Holy shit your killing this game and I support this brand even more than I did before!!

i like the fact he actually made the products, with a sewing machine, in his living room! Its not like he started Gymshark and had the products made in China or Taiwan and just slapped a logo on them. A true entrepreneur!

This is the true meaning of Entepreneurship - not the glorified lifestyle and money. But that incredible feeling when you work incredibly hard at something and it finally starts to pay off. There is no secret recipe - just hard work. This is what it truly takes and it's an incredible story. Thanks for sharing this Ben. This makes more more determined to work hard and achieve something. Keep up the good work, you deserve everything you get - you've earnt it.

Is it me or does Ben seem like a super genuine bloke? Great to see the back story of Gymshark!

It's rare that a video gives me such chills and emotions. This is truly inspiring! You guys were the pioneers of this new era in the fitness industry. 👌🏼👌🏼👌🏼

I’m 56 years of age and I’ve just started my own business selling women’s active wear, just watched this video and I have to say you are an absolute inspiration, thank you you’ve inspired me 👍

1 minute in and I already feel shit about my life and the absolute lack of effort iv put into stuff. I wish I had this kids attitude

That is seriously impressive, I had absolutely no idea GS had such incredibly humble beginnings, probably because when I started lifting, it was already a huge thing in the fitness industry (bearing in mind I only started training in late 2013) I wish I had the drive/courage to do something so big when I was younger. I could barely decide what to have for tea when I was 19, never mind start a business.

Pizza Hut to million dollar business owner. F&$kin awesome man. 👏🏼

Pure motivation man! It sounds ridiculous but I never actually realised how much hard work was put into the early days of starting the brand. So happy for you - nice to see working hard towards something you love pays off

The fact that you, yourself, used to hand-make and custom create and sew actual gym wear blows my freaking mind. I had no idea and that is so, so incredible! So much respect man! I love Gymshark and have been a big fan for about 2 years now! Forever will be a supporter of what you've created!

I am shook, I love the brand but had no idea the back story. This just makes me love it more.

Damn. Gymshark is definitely one of the best fitness clothing brands out there.

i absolutely loved this! i am a huge nikki b fan so have liked gym shark for a long time but i had no idea how self made the business is! what you have done is amazing ben! so inspiring. keep up the amazing work, massive things will continue to come your way. you are a huge inspiration. big love from australia 😊 p.s you rock robin and i am so glad you helped him get this up.

Ben, the amount of work and time you put into Gymshark is astonishing. You are truly an inspiration and a great example of how passion, dedication, hard work, and patience can get you to the top! Looking forward to your new videos, Mike

I'm 24 and need to get my life together. Thanks for the video!!! 😁

the fact that he handmade the products in the beginning is a whole other level of dedication and hard work that I haven't seen in a min

I believe that anyone can build a company , few can build one as successful as this , but what is truly amazing is how you built a family, a family that links all gym lovers no matter how far across the world we are. Thats what you have built here, its more than the uks fastest growing business, its the uks fastest growing family

You're honestly my inspiration in business Ben, when I've ever been asked about who's inspired me of recent to pursue the path of an entrepreneur its you. You've gone from being a wee boy with a dream to being a man competing with the likes of nike, when we spoke in Edinburgh it was clear that youre still just as determined as ever to be the best. Never change that and keep striving to improve. I can't wait for more content!

The CEO and owner of GymShark is a teen?!?! 😳 Congratulations on your success bro!

I see gymshark everywhere and I had NO idea that is was run by a british guy my age! That is so amazing, I can't wait to cop me some leggings!!

I appreciate this video This is exactly what I need as a motivation

Very inspirational, many failed attempts at business but stuck at it until you found a gap in the market, and then had so many people believe in your vision... that's why gymshark is a success. Hard work, dedication and belief in the products you are selling. So many people in the fitness industry are trying to follow in your footsteps but it doesn't feel as genuine and passionate as gymshark's story. This is why I buy from you.

I admire your work ethic and this is a great inspirational video for young people trying to make their way in the world. 💪🏼

I have this warm feeling in my heart when I see young people become successful. Your story is really motivational, to me it was a reminder that anything is possible as long as you work for it. I want to create my own company as well, my plan is to finish college, get a job& save money and eventually start something of my own.

As a business owner this is so motivating to see how you started and then scaled your business. Well done guys!

Just came across this, didnt know Gymshark started like this. Always thought I would need to gain fame before trying to make a brand. Super inspiring!

I need to wake everyday to a video like this

Wow. I had no idea gymshark grew that fast. I remember watching matt's videos back in 2011-2012 and at some point he started wearing gymshark products. I loved how they fitted. My first purchase was a luxe tracksuit, I got 3 of them. I recently looked on my gymshark account and I've spent almost 500 pounds throughout the years and I must say although it seems like a fairly big amount for fitness clothing, I'd do it all over again. Had no idea I was actually part of what gymshark is today and I'm really happy. You guys have done something amazing. Congratulations!

all my time knowing about gym shark, i never knew it was a UK company

First time I saw or heard about gymshark was back in 2014-2015 on the hodge twins youtube video, they were working out and had gynshark t shirts and they were talking and joking about how the shirts fit tight and show their cuts and muscle separation and how it show their gains. I laughed so hard but at the same time thought they’re right. It fits perfectly to show the shoulders and bicep and tight on the core for that V shape, so a week later I order one and loved how it fit. The rest is history as it became more and more popular to the point we’re theres gymshark shirts and leggins on every gym i go now as if it was Nike

Huge props to this kid. Humble and hugely successful.

Wow this was truly inspiring. I have so much respect for you Ben Francis. This story is amazing! Especially you sowing your own product! I'm in aw

ill be honest ben, prior to seeing this video i had no idea the amount of dedication and love and passion that went into creating this project. since gymshark is the biggest, i had always wrongfully categorized it as the "sell out" fitness wear brand but i had no idea the means by which you acquired the status your brand now enjoys. definitely a converted fan thank you for documenting this

What you created is insane. Respect from Germany

This is the first video that really made me skip watching videos and actually do something instead of watching videos about doing something! THANK YOU!

Love the video Ben. Nice to hear it from your perspective. You can really hear the passion coming from you and it all comes together and makes sense why the brand has grown to be what it is today. It's crazy how it all starts as a vision and then it turns into a reality

Insightful, inspirational, and personable. Solid video. Great job, Ben (and Robin 👋🏼)!

Ben, this video was absolutely incredible. A met you back at the LA Fit Expo and you inspire the hell out of me. I really draw inspiration from all you've been able to accomplish at such a young age and I want to be able to recreate that success for myself. I'm so glad you made this video because it just continues to inspire me and so many other people. So keep it up bro, can't wait keep repping Gymshark 👍🏻🔥

Mad respect for this guy. He sets a great example.

Absolutely incredible. Proof what can be achieved when you work hard, take risks and have a great friend circle around you. Well done mate.. very inspirational

Wow, I'm really glad you decided to make this video Ben. It really inspired me further to just hustle and limit any time-wasters in my life. Thank you. Also, you probably don't remember, but we met at the LA Fit Expo this past January. I talked to you a little about my dream to make a dent in the industry and I asked just to look out for me because I am currently putting in the work to "get lucky" one day in the future. I also appreciate the advice you gave me on what you guys look for in sponsorships. Uniqueness. Until we meet again. Cheers and God Bless.

This was so awesome man. 24 years old, unreal. You don't want to be one of their athletes, you want his position. Head and in charge.

F**K yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!!!!!!!!! This video 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻 So glad Robin convinced you to share this story. Has made my Sunday night.... 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 Been a Gymshark customer for around 3 years.... And will continue to be... The reasons why you started the brand/company and the passion that drives you onwards to grow is what makes your company original. Buying from a company that started with raw intentions.. Best reasons ever...💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻 #visionary M'wahhhhhhh.... Xx

I love stories like this! Young entrepreneurs hustling to deliver value!

This is awesome good job Ben!

I really respect you guys. Truly pioneers for the industry.

Incredibly inspiring for us all to watch. I'm happy to have spent hundreds on Gymshark clothing because the way I see it is I'm investing in someone like you. Keep going, I can't wait for a time where Nike are having to do everything they can to keep you away.

This video was amazing. It's great seeing someone do what they love and have it change their life forever. I've subbed & liked! 😅

Speaking this into existence now - I will be a Gymshark Athlete 🙌🏾 I love your Story, this is absolutely inspiring! Your resilience is amazing 😊

That gymshark logo is the best logo i have ever seen. So genius.

Starting a brand myself, I appreciate your transparency on this! Thank you!

I have not bought any gym shark yet but I have been obsessed with looking at it, it just seems like everything I would in a piece of clothing, well fitted, stylish and practical.

Amazing, well put together. It's crazy how a lot of people purchase gym shark apparel not knowing what goes on behind the scenes and especially the hard work and long hours that was put into creating the brand. Truly motivational, we need more videos like this on RU-vid!(:

Sounds like this kid was going to succeed in life no matter what damn

I can’t imagine how many people have been inspired by this story and pursued their own dreams because of it. Well done Ben! You’re an excellent role model for the next generation!

Made me understand why im paying so much for a shirt lol

AMAZING and congrats on your success! When will the NIKKIB X GYMSHARK Launch??? and please have enough so it doesn't sell out in a few minutes.

DID ANYONE ELSE SEE THE SHOES DRAWING AND THEN HE QUICKLY COVERED IT UP???? GYMSHARK SHOES ?? Ahh p

Always jealous of talentless youngsters that make millions from doing something anyone could do but I'm actually happy for this guy. Intelligent, hardworking and determined. Good on him 👍

Never heard of Gymshark until today, and holy crap I have an immense amount of respect for Ben and his brand.

Omg I found this so interesting and insightful! This is truly amazing.

i remember buying from gymshark YEARS ago when you sold string tanks with sayings on them, and your logo was a flexing shark. happy to see how far you've grown!!

I've been watching Nikki B videos for a bit now, along w some of your other gym shark athletes, one of the reasons I know the name gymshark. Def love the new Nikki b line she just modeled. Keep up the good work.

True inspiration man. Started at your parents house and sewing clothes for hours and still getting your workout in. And you created your own sites before and apps. You are amazing bro. I'm trying to follow your route at age 32. It isn't easy but it sure is possible. God's got me on this in his will.

I just bought my first order from GymShark today & clicked on this video in the welcome email. I just want to say you are really inspiring and after watching this video made, it me really happy to stumble across your business and become part of the gym-shark family. V/sweet & thank you!

WoW! That's pretty insane.I really love gymshark it's one of my favourite brands and I hope that one day I'll be sponsored by you guys❤. BTW what about something like "StreetShark" Clothes to wear on a daily bases at school and stuff like that,I'll definitely wear them all the time..just a suggestion.

Mad respect, a true entrepreneur...

Your story is inspiring, Ben! I appreciate you documenting so much of the journey and posting it for everyone. It’s very evident how much you care about quality. You’ve created a great brand.

Im here in 2019 and I love that they brought there original logo into the newest legacy collection. So memorable love it !!!

After watching this video, I am so much more motivated to get my brand out there. Not a fitness clothing brand, but for bmx, skateboarding, and others. Thank you so much for sharing this inspiration.

I remember being in the gym on my own, and every session I would see this fella work out on his own too in a brightly coloured stringer. I kept wanting to go over and ask where he got that stringer from. Turns out it was Dan Crane in the first batch of GymShark gear. It was like a ritual, he would always do cardio at the end of his workout in his green GymShark stringer. I wish I'd gone over and spoken to him back then. That was the start of GymShark, Gym4all Nottingham, hope you see this Dan.

Please remake the iconic Gymshark Luxe tracksuit v1s again!

May God bless you and your friends on this great journey. I recently ordered from Gymshark and I love it !

Ben Francis comes across as such a humble and gentle guy, with true business acumen and work ethic. Definitely someone to learn from.

Dope journey man!! Respect everything in this video.

This is amazing!! I think a geeky "how to stay organized whilst trying to grow a business" would be a great video topic :-)

AMAZING video dude! Im a huge fan and I'm pretty sure you remember me! Im here to support you on your youtube journey bro!

None of which you'll ever learn in school. Guys like this can teach you way more than your school teachers, tutors and lecturers.

Your Mum must be so PROUD!! I hope our son is as motivated as you are! 💪🏼

Hi Ben, this video is so open and honest and I wish you and team continued success. I think we all fall through the trap seeing wealthy individuals making assumptions that parents have funded the business or been at the right place at the right time. Whilst it could be argued that business indeed flourish at the right place > right time, your video really shows how hard its been at the beginning. I have no doubt you will have ups and downs in your journey (who doesn't?) but the brand and the customer is the most important aspect in all of this. It pains me to say this, but many businesses lose sight of these two things very quickly. If you have the right platform and the customer at the very heart of the business - people will spend money. I just wished more businesses would put the customer first.

Huge respect. What an awesome story and great company. So good to see a young guy actually making something on his own and being positive. Great video

Absolute inspiration! I couldn't imagine having the determination you guys showed! Kudos Ben, incredible

Brilliant stuff man, you can only applaud someone like you with these accomplishments. Shows that hard work pays off. Keep it going!

You're living proof that with the right idea, commitment and desire success can be achieved whatever your age. Probably one of the only people's videos I've watched all the way through because you're so humble.

I’m from the Caribbean and it’s so hard finding durable fitness leggings. I decided to invest in some gymshark leggings. BEST DECISION EVER! Really helping my in my fitness journey. The quality, the fit, everything I lovee. Although it is a bit pricey when you convert to the Caribbean Eastern Dollar it is so worth it. I will continue to invest. This is absolutely brilliant. Love your story. Bravo!

I translated this video into Russian. Great job Ben!

7:43 GymShark Shoes confirmed?

Can't believe how far you've progressed. I actually owned one of the original Luxe tracksuit bottoms, and remember thinking how far you'd came when you hit 100k followers on insta. Now you're above a mil lol. Inspiring stuff & makes me regret how far I haven't progressed these past few years as you have. Anyway - keep up the good work :)

Product of success through PURE work.

Thanks for taking the time to post this video of your journey. You have really inspired me to really make that final push to get my fashion label up and running.

this depresses me knowing someone near my age is so much more successful and just watching RU-vid and playing video games all day

Big respect. You guys did a very great job. Wish you all the best for the future!

Real inspiration! Great job Ben. It's crazy how much your life can change if you put so much work and effort into the things you love to do

I'm shocked at how down to earth he is. Given what he has accomplished, other famous guys would rub their wealth and fame to our faces, wear ridiculous outfits, do and say stupid stuff. But this lad has both his feet on the ground. 👏

What a dude! True inspiration, and proof of concept for all entrepreneurs, me alike, to just go after it. Credit to you Ben!