Ex-Gymshark chairman joins fashion resale start-up

Former Gymshark chairman Paul Richardson has been appointed as chair of fashion resale start-up, Haru.

The Belfast e-commerce business enables retailers, including clothing brands, to accept and resell pre-loved products, while giving charities an online selling option with little effort or investment.

It is aiming to become a major player in the second-hand fashion space and expand into the B2C market.

With more than 20 years' experience, Mr Richardson (pictured) has an impressive record of growing businesses in this sector.

He was instrumental in helping Gymshark become the global e-commerce business it is today.

Prior to that, he was a joint owner and director of AllSaints.

He also became the owner and executive chairman at HERA, where he is helping to grow the streetwear brand into a £100 million fashion label.

Mr Richardson said: “I am delighted to be appointed as the first chairman of Haru. I look forward to working with the team and helping to develop the company into a leading and world-class sustainable shopping platform in this booming sector.

' 'We have ambitious targets to fulfil, but I know that with my help, we can expand the business domestically and internationally, bringing sustainable fashion to everyone. ' '

Jacques Hill, Co-founder of Haru said: ' 'We are excited to have Mr Richardson on board, helping to make our visions a reality.

"The past few years have seen more consumers turn to online shopping. We are also witnessing more shoppers than ever looking for an affordable and sustainable alternative. Our service gives retailers the opportunity to access the growing second-hand market, while giving consumers more choice of quality assured, second-hand items.

' 'I believe, that under Mr Richardson 's guidance we can grow into a world leader in the sector, supporting global retailers to enter and grow in the second-hand market and making fashion more sustainable. ' '

Currently, Haru is working with almost 300 charity shops, enabling them to sell premium preloved fashion online.