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OOSC Clothing, a pioneering skiwear brand renowned for its eco-friendly ethos, is poised for international growth with a significant financing package secured through UK Export Finance (UKEF) in partnership with HSBC UK.
Based in Worcestershire and London, OOSC is renowned for its retro-styled ski, gym, and swimwear crafted from recycled materials, including plastic bottles, fishing nets, and sea waste. With nearly a decade of operation under its belt, OOSC is set to bolster its sales across key markets, including the EU, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, through collaborations with major distributors such as ASOS, Decathlon, Zalando, Macy’s, Hudson Bay, and others.
Founded by two friends from Swansea University, OOSC has rapidly expanded its presence, exporting to over 110 countries through its regional websites, with sales extending to 49 separate US states. The latest financing deal with UKEF, facilitated by HSBC UK, will enable OOSC to meet the escalating demand in key markets and enhance its global footprint.
Launched in 2015, OOSC has made waves with its sustainable approach to fashion, producing ski outerwear exclusively from recycled materials. In 2022, the brand garnered further attention by partnering with Team GB and double Olympian snowboarder Katie Ormerod, who developed her own range under the OOSC banner.
Supported by the financing package, OOSC aims to fulfill international orders from prominent retailers like ASOS and Decathlon while expanding its inventory to accommodate the surge in global sales. This follows a previous £450k facility provided by HSBC UK and UKEF in 2021, with additional support from HSBC in the form of a green trade loan in 2023, underscoring OOSC’s commitment to sustainability.
UKEF’s array of credit guarantees and insurance schemes have been instrumental in facilitating UK businesses’ access to finance, with OOSC benefitting from a ‘General Export Facility’ credit guarantee, enabling smaller businesses to access flexible trade finance through various financial institutions.
Tim Reid, CEO of UK Export Finance, commended OOSC’s journey from inception to becoming an iconic UK brand, emphasizing UKEF’s role in supporting innovative ventures and removing financial barriers to success.
Nick Marsden, Co-Founder and Director of OOSC Clothing, expressed gratitude for UKEF’s crucial support in driving international growth, highlighting the positive reception to their sustainable products worldwide.
Ben Clarke, Global Relationship Director at HSBC UK, affirmed the bank’s commitment to assisting ambitious UK businesses like OOSC in their domestic and global endeavors, leveraging its global expertise to foster success.
