Exertrain secures new premises as orders grow

A Lancashire fitness company has unveiled new premises following a huge increase in sales of its specialist training equipment.

Blackpool-based Exertrain has moved its headquarters to a larger site on Whitehills Business Park and partnered with manufacturers in China to produce new steel weightlifting products.

The company, founded just two years ago by father and son team, Gordon and Dean Kent, has taken on three new members of staff thanks to its rapid growth.

Gordon said: “We believe we are the first company in the UK to produce such a high level of equipment and we’ve had fantastic feedback so far.

“We started out supplying to gyms in people’s garages and over the past two years we’ve just grown and grown.

“Now we supply to some of the largest commercial gym chains, the Bradford Bulls rugby team, the fire service, and even the military – we’ve just supplied equipment to RAF Honington and they’ve told us they’re thrilled.

“We’re meeting with more military bases all over the country and we’re hoping to secure some new contract wins over the next few months.”

Exertrain received business growth advice from accountants and business advisors Moore and Smalley throughout its expansion. The firm also advised Exertrain on the financial aspects of its leasing of the new premises and provided assistance in securing funds. Moore and Smalley will provide ongoing support, including management information, as Exertrain continues its development.

Judith Dugdale, corporate services director at Moore and Smalley, said: “It’s fantastic to see how much Exertrain has grown in such a short space of time, particularly considering that new business start-ups are pitted against such challenging economic circumstances.

“Dean and Gordon have a unique, innovative product and a focused strategy for further growth. The new premises will help facilitate this and I’m confident that the company will go from strength to strength as it continues to make waves in the UK fitness market.”

Exertrain also received legal support from commercial law firm Harrison Drury on its property lease.

Owen McKenna, head of the property team at the firm, said: “Exertrain is a great example of a thriving Lancashire business which is contributing to the local economy and creating new job opportunities for people in the area.

“Its move to larger premises is indicative of its continued success and its plans for further development are both encouraging and exciting.”

Dean spent 18 months developing a new range of fitness equipment before launching Exertrain with dad Gordon, a former policeman.

While working as a fitness trainer, Dean was disappointed with the quality of the equipment available to the industry. Using knowledge gained in his previous a role as an engineer for car manufacturer TVR, he came up with his own solution. Now the company is working with developers in Taiwan to produce its steelwork, while all design and woodwork aspects are being handled in Blackpool. Exertrain is hoping to take on more staff as the company grows its service.