We discovered Dock & Bay towels back in 2017 and have loved using them ever since. They are compact (so can be packed even when space is tight), they dry so quickly and they are sand free.
We asked co founder Andy for his inspiration behind the brand:
‘Dock & Bay is a colourful lifestyle brand famous for our quick-drying towels and now selling unique products across travel, fitness, and home.
Dock & Bay began as many great ideas do: a desire for something new, a passion for travel & adventure and … a few drinks. Myself and co-founder Ben (who’s now down under!), were workmates and global travellers. We decided to completely reinvent the bulky, soggy beach towel, and brighten up the world, one stripe at a time!’
In 2017 they featured on Dragons Den and secured investment from Deborah Meaden propelling them into the UK market. Now, as well as their famous beach towels, they sell swimwear, ponchos, gym towels and hair wraps across the globe, always with a cheeky touch of colour because they don’t believe in taking life too seriously. They now have warehousing in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia.
Their towels are all sand-free, quick-dry and super absorbent while staying compact because no one wants a towel that takes up all of their suitcase space, these factors set us apart from the competition and changed the towel game.’
Their biggest focus recently has been on making moves towards being a more sustainable brand with all their products now made from 100% recycled materials (post-consumer plastic bottles)! In their first full year of business (2015), they had a turnover of £92K and this year they hit over £8m. They were nominated in The Sunday Times Fast Track “Ones To Watch” category in 2019 and were just voted 13th in the Startup’s 100 list for 2020.
2020 has been a tough year for everyone, what challenges have you faced and have things changed for you and your business?
‘Despite the impact of Covid-19 on most businesses, especially the travel sector, we have worked hard to pivot and position ourselves into new product areas, such as home and beauty, allowing us to continue driving momentum at a turbulent time. We have always thought on our feet, moved quickly and stayed ahead of what’s going on across the world.’
What is your favourite quote?
Anything from the Holstee Manifesto but if I’m to pull out a great line from it ‘Life is about the people you meet and the things you create with them, so go out and start creating’
What is your favourite treat after a hard day?
Honestly, anything chocolate related and a nice cold beer!
What plans do you have for 2021?
‘Collaborating with a new charity, lots of gorgeous new designs and products coming very soon. Keep your eyes peeled! The uncertainty that everybody faced in 2020 has allowed us to make serious steps and plans for the future and to make 2021 and beyond even bigger and better for Dock & Bay.’
Check out all the fun products Dock & Bay have on offer here.
