Midlothian entrepreneurs overcome Covid challenges to launch new streetwear brand

Two young Midlothian-based entrepreneurs are looking to make their mark with the launch of a streetwear clothing brand.

Streetwear brand MC Apparel is the brainchild of Michael Surgeon, left, and Liam Chisholm, who were motivated to launch a second business after their first paused trading due to the disruption from coronavirus.

MC Apparel is the brainchild of Michael Surgeon and Liam Chisholm, who were motivated to launch a second business after their first paused trading due to the disruption from coronavirus.

When Covid restrictions ease, the fledgling brand plans to organise photoshoots to showcase its clothing range and is also looking to collaborate with local fashion brands to give away t-shirts to support a local charity.

The venture also worked with Business Gateway to ensure that it was able to adapt its business model to meet the challenges posed by the pandemic and increase margins by shifting from early drop-shipping to stock holding.

Surgeon, founder of MC Apparel, said: “The team at Business Gateway Midlothian has been very supportive during this period and the online workshops we attended were invaluable, helping us to develop a digital marketing strategy that allowed us to reach our target audiences even with the challenges of lockdown.”

Annie Watt, Business Gateway lead officer, added: “It’s impressive to see how Michael and Liam have adapted to lockdown, identifying an opportunity to launch a new business and taking it forward.

“They have been incredibly proactive, accessing a range of resources, attending workshops and arranging one-to-one sessions via Zoom to receive guidance and support on development plans.

“Recent research by Business Gateway revealed that despite the challenges, Covid-19 has not hampered peoples’ appetite to start a business, and Michael and Liam’s experience is a testament to this.”

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