A pair of young entrepreneurs have shared how they transformed their lives, leaving behind typical 9-to-5 jobs to build a thriving fashion business now valued at £3 million.
Julian Osborne and Sam Matanle, both 29, have accomplished remarkable success before reaching 30.
The duo met during their university days and initially bonded over their love for nightlife, but their mutual drive and ambition to build something meaningful from a young age helped them lay the foundation for a prosperous future.
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Today, their once distant dream is now a reality.
Just over two years ago, Julian, a former brand manager, and Sam, previously working in operations management, decided to leave their jobs and pursue a shared passion.
They launched Batch LDN, a fashion brand specializing in casual, high-quality suits designed to last. The brand focuses on both sustainability and affordability, setting it apart in the market.
While high-end suits of similar quality often retail at around £800, Batch LDN offers theirs starting from £395.
Their stylish suits have caught the attention of several high-profile celebrities, including comedian Romesh Ranganathan and actor Ashley Walters from Top Boy.
Co-founder Julian, originally from Newcastle but now based in London, reflected on his early love for fashion. “Fashion has always been a big part of my life,” he said. “I went through all the usual teenage phases – everything from emo style, with skinny red jeans and Vans, to buttoned-up polo shirts from Topman.”
He recalled that his passion for clothes wasn’t always matched by his budget growing up, which forced him to be creative with what he had. “I’ve always wanted to spend more on clothes, but like any kid, I didn’t have much to work with,” he added. “Turning that interest into a career has been a dream come true.”
In the early stages, not everyone believed in their vision. “People doubted us, questioning if there was even a market for our idea. But that’s something you have to face, and it’s how you handle that criticism that counts,” Julian noted.
While Julian always had an eye for fashion, Sam’s path was slightly different. Initially, Sam dreamt of becoming a Formula 1 driver, though his ambitions later shifted to entrepreneurship.
Both men gathered valuable experience working at startups – one in the underwear industry and the other in the drinks sector – where they gained essential knowledge in marketing, finance, and business development.
Despite their initial success, they were seeking a better work-life balance.
Julian admitted some hesitation about starting a business with a close friend. “I was nervous about mixing business with friendship, but it’s worked out because we complement each other so well,” he explained. “Sam is more of a thinker, and I’m more of a doer.
Our friendship has made us more accountable to each other, too – being a bad friend is harder than being a bad coworker, and that mutual respect feeds directly into the business.”
The pair initially funded the business themselves, using personal savings and taking small loans from family members, including Sam’s father and Julian’s grandmother. The first Batch suit was designed right in Julian’s living room.
The journey hasn’t been without its challenges, from finding the right production partner to hiring a designer capable of bringing their vision to life.
But why focus on suits?
Julian explained, “The traditional suit has fallen out of favor for many people. We wanted to create a solution for those moments when you want to look good but don’t know what to wear.
Everyone’s experienced that – standing in front of your wardrobe, not knowing what to put on. This suit is designed to eliminate that dilemma, and it’s at a price point that’s more accessible.”
He also mentioned that their approach has shifted their own shopping habits. “Neither Sam nor I would’ve considered ourselves particularly conscious consumers, but we wanted to give people like us an option to shop more sustainably.
Sustainability alone isn’t always enough to drive a purchase, so we’ve combined it with affordability and quality.”
Batch LDN’s suits are made-to-order, with a delivery time of up to eight weeks. This model reduces waste, avoids overproduction, and cuts down on dead stock, allowing them to offer lower prices to customers.
Currently, Batch LDN serves men and women ranging from 17 to 70 years old. Their suits are sold online and in their flagship store, soon to relocate to Covent Garden in London.
This year, they’re on track to make £400,000 in revenue, their best performance so far, and they’re expanding their collection to include overcoats.
Their long-term vision includes breaking into the US market, growing their core product range, and expanding their current five-person team.
Offering advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, Julian emphasized the importance of solving a real problem with your business and having a compelling story.
“If you’ve got the resources, just go for it – but don’t underestimate the value of gaining experience by working under others first. Be patient, and don’t expect success overnight.”
He added, “Even if Batch LDN were to fail tomorrow, I’d be proud of what we’ve accomplished. Success doesn’t need to consume your whole life – enjoying it is just as important. We’re only getting started.”
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