213 | UK Enterprise Awards 2023 Apr23623 Best Independent Sports Retailer & Custom Sports Kit Specialists 2023 - West Midlands Moving Forward Sports is a prominent sports apparel company founded by Jamie Marler in 2012. The company was born out of a desire to address the prevalent issues of broken promises and delayed deliveries in the kit industry. We take a look at the success of the firm and how it has come to be recognised within the UK Enterprise Awards 2023. Moving Forward Sports is committed to providing top-quality kits, clothing, and merchandise. The firm specialises in creating bespoke and unique designs that allow sports clubs of all levels to establish their distinct identity instead of settling for stock designs. Jamie and his company take pride in constantly pushing boundaries and staying ahead of the curve. Moving Forward Sports ensures its offerings remain at the forefront of innovation by closely monitoring new trends, technologies, fabrics, and finishing touches. The company serves customers at every level of the sports industry, ranging from local grassroots teams and schools to semi-professional and professional sports organisations. In an industry dominated by big-name brands that often rely on mass-produced, low-cost stock items as incentives to win business, it becomes challenging for Moving Forward Sports to secure deals involving sponsored items. As most of its items are custom-made according to each customer’s specific requirements, it cannot be easy to incorporate large quantities of sponsored items into agreements. Nonetheless, the company has forged exciting partnerships with high-profile clients over time. For instance, Moving Forward Sports supplied custom kits for renowned football legends during the Master’s Football tournament, with ex-players from Liverpool, Manchester United, Celtic, and Rangers proudly donning their kits. The values at the core of Moving Forward Sports are deeply ingrained in its business practices. Whenever possible, the company strives to manufacture its products in the UK. This commitment supports the local economy, contributes to job creation, and sustains the manufacturing industry as a whole. While this approach may result in higher costs, it enables greater quality control, faster lead times, and the flexibility to accommodate rush orders or lower quantity requirements. However, in certain cases, Moving Forward Sports can even produce one-off items, whether for emergencies or to provide samples for final design approval. Ever-evolving trends characterise the sports apparel industry. One notable movement recently emerged is the proliferation of online designers creating concept kits for their favourite professional clubs. This surge in creativity and exploration of unconventional designs has injected excitement into the industry. Moving Forward Sports actively encourages such input from clubs and individuals, fostering collaboration to keep its work fresh and innovative. However, it also needs help managing expectations and explaining the limitations imposed by manufacturing and production processes, which may not be apparent to those unfamiliar with the industry’s intricacies. Another area of interest for Moving Forward Sports is using recycled materials in its products. While materials are marketed as eco-friendly, such as fabrics made from plastic bottles, the company’s research has revealed limited benefits to being truly eco-friendly. Many of these materials are produced overseas, resulting in significant carbon emissions from shipping orders and materials multiple times globally. Therefore, the company opts to manufacture locally in its homeland of the UK. This continues to bring several advantages including being able to contribute positively to the corporate landscape by supporting the economy, creating jobs, and promoting the manufacturing industry. Jamie and his team’s commitment to quality control and the ability to promptly fulfil rush orders or produce lower quantities sets them apart from competitors relying on overseas production with longer lead times. Moving Forward Sports elevates the corporate landscape within the UK by championing the values of local manufacturing and delivering exceptional service to its clients. To maintain and grow the business, Moving Forward Sports prioritises certain qualities when hiring new staff. Passion for their work and attention to detail are essential attributes, ensuring that every order is treated with the utmost care and precision. The company recognises the importance of allowing its team members to pursue personal and professional growth, too. Furthermore, the leadership team actively encourage staff to explore different areas of expertise, discover their passions, and suggest innovative ideas that may have yet to be considered previously. By fostering an environment of continuous learning and development, Moving Forward Sports cultivates a team committed to delivering the best possible service to its customers. With eyes set on the future, the company has some exciting partnerships in the pipeline. While it cannot disclose details until confirmed, it remains dedicated to constant improvement, growth, and fostering strong relationships within the industry. As the team ventures into the backend of 2023, Moving Forward Sports envisions further success, expansion, and an unwavering dedication to providing the finest custom sports kits and apparel in the market. Contact Details Company: Moving Forward Sports Name: Jamie Marler Email: [email protected] Web Address: www.movingforwardsports.co.uk
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