Warrington-based business Stand Out Socks, founded by brothers Christian and Ross Laing, has announced a significant expansion, with its vibrant sock designs now available in over 200 Tesco stores across the UK. This collaboration marks a major milestone for the company, which is dedicated to providing meaningful employment for individuals with learning disabilities, particularly Down syndrome.
Key Takeaways
- Stand Out Socks, founded by Warrington brothers Christian and Ross Laing, has launched its products in over 200 Tesco stores nationwide.
- The company is committed to creating paid employment opportunities for people with learning disabilities, inspired by co-founder Ross who has Down syndrome.
- The partnership coincides with Down Syndrome Awareness Month and the brand’s fourth anniversary.
- Tesco’s F&F Clothing division has expressed pride in the collaboration, highlighting the brand’s mission and commitment to diversity.
- Stand Out Socks gained significant recognition and investment after appearing on BBC’s Dragon’s Den in 2024.
A Mission Driven by Inclusion
Founded in 2021, Stand Out Socks was born from a desire to create opportunities for Ross Laing, who has Down syndrome. The company’s core mission is to provide paid employment and foster personal growth, independence, and community impact for individuals with learning disabilities. As the business grows, so does its capacity to offer more roles and support its employees.
National Reach and Awareness
The partnership with Tesco is set to significantly increase the visibility of Down syndrome and the capabilities of individuals with the condition. Beyond raising awareness, the collaboration is expected to generate thousands of hours of paid work for people with Down syndrome. The launch in October is particularly poignant as it aligns with Down Syndrome Awareness Month and the company’s fourth birthday.
Product Details and Pricing
The collection features 12 eye-catching designs, including popular motifs like sausage dogs, bows, cherries, eggs, sunflowers, planets, and sushi. The socks will be available at accessible price points: £5 for two pairs of men’s and women’s socks, and £6 for three pairs of children’s socks. Sizing options cater to a wide range of customers:
- Women: UK 4-6 and UK 6-10
- Men: UK 6-8 and UK 9-12
- Kids: UK 12-3, UK 4-5, UK 6-8, UK 9-12
Tesco’s Commitment to Diversity
Alice Duggan, Tesco’s head of buying at F&F Clothing, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. "We are incredibly proud to introduce Stand Out Socks to our customers," she stated. "Discovering the brand and its mission was important to colleagues across F&F. We believe in the power of businesses that really make a difference, and Stand Out Socks does just that – creating opportunities and celebrating diversity."
From Dragon’s Den to Supermarket Shelves
Stand Out Socks’ journey has been marked by significant achievements, including a successful appearance on BBC’s Dragon’s Den in 2024. The company secured investment from Steven Bartlett and Peter Jones, further bolstering its mission. Steven Bartlett commented on the Tesco partnership, saying, "Congratulations to Ross, Natalie, Christian and the team at Stand Out Socks on securing their Tesco retail partnership. They are now stocked in the UK’s biggest supermarket."
Bartlett also highlighted the company’s impact: "Ross was the first entrepreneur with Down syndrome to secure investment on Dragons’ Den and the company now directly employs five individuals with Down syndrome in paid roles. Since launching, they’ve raised over £30,000 for local and national charities and they are breaking down barriers, championing inclusion, and creating opportunities for people with Down syndrome – this is what it’s all about!"
### Key Takeaways
- Warrington business Stand Out Socks has products stocked in Tesco, Warrington Guardian.
