Sunderland sports firm wins £1.6million investment

The Rainton Bridge firm, whose website compares prices on thousands of items of football merchandise and sportswear, has secured the investment from the North East Innovation Fund, supported by the European Regional Development Fund.

Footy.com will use the funding to advertise, bolster its workforce and invest in its online technology.

The firm was started in 2015 by entrepreneurs involved with other Sunderland businesses, including including SaleCycle and the Leighton Group. The investment will help create new jobs.

CEO Paul Lucherini said: “We believe we’re the only company globally comparing prices across the football world and the technology we have built is robust and innovative. We’ve got a great opportunity to grow a North East based business into something that millions of people will benefit from.

“The new funding we have acquired will help us reach the millions of football fans around the country, and the world.

“The plan is to build the awareness of Footy.com as well as optimising the technology so that we become the go-to place when people look for new trainers and football-related merchandise.

“We’re planning for quick growth and ultimately have the opportunity to look at international markets such as the USA, Europe and Asia-PAC too.”

The company is expecting a surge in demand after the coronavirus.

Paul added: ““After the significant impact of Covid-19, we think there will be even more demand online in the short term for people to find the best pricing for products, and long term there will be no shortage of people looking for trainers and football boots as we all get back to regular life.”

The investment is being managed by Northstar Ventures Ltd, which helps businesses across the north of England.

Northstar director Ian Richards said: “We’re delighted to be supporting FOOTY.COM, we’ve been impressed by the team and the vision as well as the ability to scale the business. We look forward to working with them as they take their innovative platform further and grow the team.”

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