Most of us maybe in lockdown and many businesses have stopped in their tracks but this has not prevented serial entrepreneur Peter Lee from continuing to expand and evolve.
Peter is the driving force behind Westcott-based Refuel Global Brands Ltd, a designer and manufacturer of premium headwear producing hats and caps for a wide variety of different retail clients and fashion brands.
Recently he set up a new venture with California-based Melin to build their brand in Europe. They have created some of the finest sports leisure headwear in the world. Their range of innovative and original designs such as the ‘Hydro’ water-resistant cap which can be worn while swimming, running and surfing. Peter and his team are busy placing product to help promote the brand with celebrities such as Ashley Walters and Joshua Patterson.
In December last year he also moved into footwear by launching his own brand, Lavair, which makes upmarket trainers retailing at up to £225 a pair.
These are selling through top end retailers such as FLANNELS as well as online.
As if that wasn’t enough, Peter is planning to open a new restaurant and cocktail bar at the Hale Leys shopping centre in Aylesbury.
The Manor Aylesbury will occupy the former Next store comprising 10,000 sq ft across three floors with a capacity for 700 people. Working with business partner Ben Moult, £1.2m has been spent on the refurbishment.
The floors have different themes with the ground floor being a New York style restaurant offering fusion tapas food, while upstairs will be a cocktail bar and the roof terrace will have a Miami theme featuring gazebos, olive trees and a bar.
It was due to open in April, although plans are on hold until lockdown is lifted but it promises to be a fantastic experience. Significantly, all these businesses are run from Buildings 407 and S10 at Westcott.
“Our business is not just about manufacturing high quality products, it is about the whole experience,” said Peter, who was been in headwear manufacturing for more than 30 years.
“With our complete transparency, you will receive a seamless service from start to finish. Our team make the process easy and clear by continually overseeing all aspects from design to the production of the product and the delivery process, ensuring that everything runs smoothly.
“Our business is ever evolving and expanding which means our office and warehouse have to follow suit. Whichever way our business expands we know the Westcott Venture Park management team are there to facilitate our growth.”
Now Westcott is providing a home for the next generation of the Lee family. Peter’s sons Duncan and Michael run the XYZ Music school – a business which is also expanding. They have 700 students and teach across 20 schools.
For more information, see www.refuelglobalbrands.com or call 01296 53100.
