Built For Athletes (Functional Backpacks Ltd), the category-defining backpack brand of the fitness sector, headquartered in Stockton Heath, has secured a £1.025 million funding package from NatWest.
The facility, comprising a £525,000 trade loan and £500,000 invoice finance, will enable the business to accelerate its global growth strategy, invest in new product development, and further advance its sustainability initiatives.
Founded in 2018 by two brothers Daniel and Nicholas Costello, both of whom have backgrounds in fitness, finance and marketing. Built For Athletes has rapidly established itself as a leader in the sports and active lifestyle sector. The company is renowned for its best in class, design-protected backpacks tailored to the needs of dedicated fitness enthusiasts, as well as its successful partnerships with global brands such as Alpine F1, Williams F1, Red Bull F1, Borussia Dortmund FC, and Hyrox. Built For Athletes has become the go-to brand for the gym and training community.
The new NatWest funding will support Built For Athletes as it diversifies its product offering, expands brand presence internationally, and invests in technology and creator content to enhance its digital sales strategy.
Danny Costello, Chief Executive Officer at Built For Athletes, commented: “This new finance facility with NatWest marks an important step forward for Built For Athletes as we execute the next phase of our growth strategy. The facility provides us with enhanced financial flexibility to invest confidently in product development, operational capability, and international expansion.
NatWest’s clear commitment to our long-term vision and their willingness to support our ambitions reflects a depth of partnership we greatly value, and one that we believe will underpin the continued, sustainable growth of the business.”
Nathan Johnson, Senior Relationship Manager at NatWest, said: “Built For Athletes exemplifies the kind of innovative, high-growth business that is shaping the future of the UK’s sports and retail sector. NatWest is proud to provide the financial solutions and expertise to help them reach the next level.”
Committed to responsible and sustainable practices, with an ESG strategy at its core, Built For Athletes designs durable products to challenge fast fashion waste. They also partner with BSCI-audited manufacturers, use 100% recyclable packaging and employ eco-efficient logistics. Their social and governance commitments include supporting employee wellbeing, fostering diversity, and maintaining transparent decision-making processes. Such initiatives align closely with NatWest Group’s focus on championing sustainable business growth and positive community impact.
Whether it is access to funding and finance, markets, talent, leadership or infrastructure – NatWest offers dedicated support to eligible, fast-growing firms hoping to scale up. To find out more about how NatWest supports high-growth businesses, visit https://www.natwest.com/business/high-growth.html
