Full Breakdown
Northern Ireland Gym-Equipment Firm BLK BOX Expands Globally
By Drooid · · How we work
Rapid International Growth
Greg Bradley founded BLK BOX in Newtownabbey 14 years ago, initially told he would never sell beyond the island of Ireland. The company now supplies gym equipment to high-profile clients such as Manchester United, PureGym, and the Stade Français rugby team. Its export footprint spans the European Union and markets in the United States, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, India, and Australia, with recent contracts secured in France, Spain and Germany. Bradley attributes the surge to heightened health awareness after Covid and a growing interest in gym activity among younger consumers.
Economic Context in Northern Ireland
Official statistics indicate that economic activity in Northern Ireland grew faster in the second quarter of this year than in both the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. BLK BOX’s expansion contributes to this trend, illustrating how a locally founded manufacturer can achieve outsized international reach.
Impact of the Windsor Framework
Bradley notes that the Windsor Framework—designed to ease trade between Northern Ireland and the EU—has given BLK BOX a competitive edge over English rivals. He explains that the ability to ship “frictionlessly across Europe” helps overcome tariff concerns, encouraging prospective buyers to engage with the firm despite initial hesitation.
Workforce Expansion and Market Reach
The company’s staff has risen to 180 employees as it scales operations to meet global demand. Bradley says the firm is “doubling down” on its European strategy, leveraging recent wins with a large French gym chain and continuing to educate customers about the benefits of seamless cross-border logistics. This growth underscores the broader potential for Northern Irish manufacturers to thrive in international markets when supported by favorable trade arrangements.