Growth Partner, a consumer-focused investment firm, has invested a considerable amount into Stubble & Co and acquired a significant minority stake in the fast-growing brand. Stubble & Co, known for their functional and stylish bags, has achieved impressive triple-digit growth and consistent profitability, registering a sales CAGR of 173% over the past three years. The brand has also increased their investment in ESG initiatives and is on track to make sales of £10m this year.
The founders of Stubble & Co, Victoria and Ben Watkiss, held leadership positions in consumer marketing, advertising risk, and supply chain consultancy at L’Oréal before the launch of their minimalist lifestyle brand in 2017. Boasting of a unique offering, the company has tailored their hero product range, the Roll Top backpacks, into a niche category and expanded into adjacent categories in the baggage industry with the launch of their latest product, the Tote Bag.
The Watkiss’ initial product launch via Kickstarter surpassed expectations and marked the start of their successful six-year journey. Since then, they have resisted external investment and relied on their Shopify Plus e-commerce platform to drive growth. Stubble & Co aims to contribute 1% of its annual revenue to environmental non-profits as part of the 1% for the Planet initiative. They are now collaborating with Brentford Football Club, serving as their official bag partner, and building momentum to join the global stage as a recognizable brand.
With this investment from Growth Partner, Stubble & Co is looking forward to expanding their collaboration network and accelerating growth. Victoria and Ben Watkiss expressed their satisfaction with the partnership and believe that Richard’s support and expertise would be invaluable in building their globally recognized brand.
