BLK BOX is moving into the US market and continuing its expansion into Europe. We meet the new recruits who’ll be helping power this growth

From small beginnings in Belfast to an ambitious team with sights set on global expansion, strength equipment company BLK BOX is powering up for a new era of growth.

The business, which started with founder Greg Bradley and a couple of employees more than a decade ago, has grown to a team of 120 who design, build and deliver exceptional functional fitness and strength training spaces to health clubs and sports facilities across multiple continents.

Two new, highly-experienced individuals have just been welcomed into the fold. Their mission is to take the brand into the US market and consolidate and drive growth in Europe.

The US mission
First up is Fergus Ahern, the new president of BLK BOX USA, who joined the industry in 1992 as a fitness instructor before moving into equipment.

Ahern relocated to the US in 2017 as GM of Power Systems, a distributor of functional and strength accessories, gaining deep knowledge of the market.

While he sees similarities between the markets – such as a focus on strength and lifting – he’s also aware of the differences: “In the US, everyone has strength spaces,” he explains, “but parts of the market would benefit from a greater focus on design. BLK BOX can bring its expertise and experience to this process.

“It’s also a virgin market for us,” says Ahern. “There’s a huge opportunity for BLK BOX USA to become a significant part of the business. I’ve no doubt the products, the company and the brand will be well received in the US.”

Building relationships
The second hire is Lyndon Wood as head of key accounts. Like Ahern, he brings 30-plus years of experience in the industry to the role.

Wood started out as a PT after completing a sports science degree and his path has taken him on a journey from managing a sports facility in Lanzarote to working in hospitality. He also launched Trixter, a bike-tech business and spent time at Myzone.

Of his new role, Wood says: “I’m heading up key accounts for Europe and will be taking a consultative approach, with a focus on understanding clients’ goals and working out how our products can offer meaningful solutions. It’s all about building genuine relationships and long-term value.

“My aim is to expose more people to what BLK BOX is capable of,” he says. “I think 80 per cent of the industry doesn’t know yet what this company can deliver.

“There’s a rare authenticity in the BLK BOX business,” says Wood, and the senior team is very open to new ideas – something that’s critical for growth.

“What stands out is the energy,” he says. “You walk into the building and it’s real – everyone lives and breathes it – it’s an inclusive culture and I’m genuinely excited about what’s ahead.”

The bigger picture
Bradley, says: “Fergus and Lyndon bring deep sector knowledge and a shared understanding of what it takes to build a world-class business.

“Fergus understands the nuances of the US market and with his leadership, we’ll build a presence there that matches the quality, culture and client-first mentality we’ve built in the UK, while adapting to the scale and demands of North American operators.

“Lyndon brings a huge amount of industry experience as we grow the depth and quality of our key account partnerships. His strategic insight will be key to supporting complex projects and long-term client success.”

More: www.blkboxfitness.com