This November, Zone3, the UK’s leading triathlon brand was presented with a prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade.
James Lock, former elite triathlete, founded the Zone3 concept in 2004 aged 19, when he designed, produced and sold swim accessories. Lock’s aim was simple, to improve his race speed and earn enough to cover his training and racing costs. Now 14 years later, Zone3 retails in over 35 countries globally, sells 260 products and has won numerous design awards.
The Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade recognises Zone3’s success on the global stage. With quality of product at the forefront of everything Zone3 undertakes, Zone3 has built a loyal and engaged triathlete community in the UK and internationally. This year alone, Zone3 has grown by 20 employees and is excited to continue to expand and innovate, both in the UK and overseas, helping its customers reach new limits.
The award was presented by HRH The Duke of Kent and Lord Lieutenant Michael More-Molyneux at Zone3’s head office in Surrey on 13th November. The Duke spent time to meet all of the staff and view presentations on how the products are created and how the brand is grown. This was followed by the reading of the official scroll and presentation of Queen Award.
Founder James Lock said, “I am incredibly proud that Zone3 has been awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade. This accolade is testament to Zone3’s mission to be the most loved and chosen specialist sports brand in the world.
“My own background as a former athlete, deep rooted passion for triathlon and my competitive nature, has helped me to build Zone3 from a grassroots level to a global market player.
“We are all delighted that our business enterprise has been recognised and this has been achieved thanks to an exceptionally talented, positive and hardworking team of staff.”