East Anglian law firm Ashtons Legal helps cyclewear brand Le Col with expansion strategy

East of England law firm Ashtons Legal has advised premium cycling apparel brand Le Col on a £1m crowdfunding campaign.

London-based Le Col was founded in 2011 by professional cyclist Yanto Barker and the new funding will enable the business to continue to establish the brand and expand.

Matthew Downing, head of Ashtons’ corporate and commercial team in Cambridge, said: “It has been an absolute pleasure advising the team at Le Col.

“This was an exciting project to be involved with and it was great that Le Col was able to exceed its initial target. This business has grown steadily and with the new funding it will enable the business to continue that growth and reach new markets.

“Crowdfunding has grown in popularity in recent years and is now an important alternative fundraising option for those businesses looking to raise funds to support their growth strategy. It also has the added benefit of bringing the business closers to its customers in enabling them to have an actual stake in it.”

Yanto Barker said: “We are delighted with the campaign and are now in a position to take the brand to the next level. The responsiveness and support provided by Matthew and his team throughout the campaign was greatly received and Ashtons proved to be key part of the team in concluding the campaign.”

Ashtons Legal employs 340 people at offices in Cambridge, Norwich, Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds, Felixstowe and Thetford offices.

Le Col was also assisted by tax advisers and accounts Hillier Hopkins LLP and Price Bailey LLP.