Andy Murray’s ice cream smashes sales targets

The free-from ice cream brand, which Murray invested in earlier this year, has reported a like-for-like revenue growth of 744% for May and June. That was 340% above its revenue target.

After several months of record sales, Oppo said: “Our mission is well-timed for market trends. ​Overall, we expect this financial year to be 284% growth on last year. This is conservative, as our current like-for-like growth illustrates.”​

Rate of sale trebled​

“​We have built fantastic momentum since winning Start-up of the Year, appearing on Dragons’ Den​ [in Feburary 2016], and Andy Murray investing alongside 670 others. Since then our distribution has increased by 35% and our rate of sale trebled.”​

The company secured more than £300,000 on crowd funding site Seedrs in February 2016. Murray helped the company smash its £150,000 funding target by supplying his own investment of an undisclosed amount.

Speaking earlier this year, after his investment became known, Murray said: “Giving recognition and support to British entrepreneurs is important to me, especially those who are the driving force behind growth-focused businesses.”​

Sir Richard Branson​

Murray’s investment​ drew the attention of Virgin Group founder, Sir Richard Branson.

Branson said: “Not only did ​[Oppo] end up the fastest crowdfunded food and drink business ever, but they became Seedrs’ most-overfunded campaign. That’s an endorsement for your business you can’t buy.”​

Oppo ice cream is made using virgin coconut oil and stevia leaves with “added super foods”​ from Brazil. Oppo claims it has fewer calories than an apple, and a third of the sugar.

The company said: “​Oppo aims to make our favourite sweet treats without compromising health. Consumers these days demand products which are healthy without sacrificing taste. Unfortunately most manufactures don't understand that.”​

While the ice cream business attracted Murray’s investment, the company failed to make an impact on Dragons’ Den​​ in February. The ice cream business appeared on the television show to pitch its healthy treat, and asked for an investment of £60,000 in return for a 7% stake in the business.

However, the Dragons were unimpressed with the ice cream’s aftertaste, and the owners, Charlie and Harry Thuilliers, walked away with nothing.