Youngest British billionaire's garage startup: Gymshark's Ben Francis outshines Ed Sheeran, Daniel Radcliffe in rich list
Francis's story has an echo of Steve Jobs. At the age of 19, he founded Gymshark in his parents' garage near Birmingham, using a sewing machine that his grandmother bought him. Presently, his wealth is estimated to be around 1.2 billion dollars.
10:02 AM EST, January 13, 2024
It's interesting to note that Francis had previously made an appearance on Forbes' richest list. However, this publication calculates a person's value in dollars. It would take a bit more time for Ben to become a "pound" billionaire.
Nowadays, Gymshark is a popular brand among celebrities worldwide and occupies a leading position in the fitness industry.
Francis owns 70 percent of Gymshark. Not too long ago, he sold the remaining stake to General Atlantic for 300 million dollars.
Success doesn't come alone...
The American narrative of a "self-made man" isn't entirely accurate. Everyone climbing their way to billionaire status requires assistance and the hard work of others to reach such an altitude.
Without a doubt, a significant supporter and ardent fan of Ben's clothing line is his wife, Robin. The couple has been together for seven years and, from the outset, Robin embraced Gymshark apparel, enthusiastically endorsing it on social media. She also accompanied Ben to conferences and various trade shows. The couple was blessed with twins last December.
In the company of the wealthiest
Topping "The Times" list is the Duke of Westminster, who inherited an enormous fortune and vast land at the age of 25, estimated to be around 13.2 billion dollars. Followed closely by another member of the royal family, Lady Charlotte Wellesley, her fortune is estimated to be nearly 2.9 billion dollars.
Rounding off the podium is entrepreneur Johnny Boufarhat; the Australian-born businessman's wealth is estimated at 2.3 billion dollars.
Meanwhile, names such as Ed Sheeran, Adele, Harry Styles, Daniel Radcliffe, and Dua Lipa appear much lower on the list than Ben Francis.
