David’s timely purchase

Slappie 1: (from left to right) Mark Ashfield (HB&O), Sinead and David Kendall (Slappie)

David Kendall has acquired Slappie – an affordable slap watch available in a variety of colours and patterns which are completely interchangeable.

The 33-year-old chartered accountant, who also manages an Auditel Cost Management franchise, purchased the business with the help of Leamington accountants Harrison Beale & Owen.

He immediately began to develop the brand, which includes watches for adults and juniors, and is preparing to launch a new concept called ‘MySlappie’.

MySlappie will allow customers to create a bespoke Slappie slap watch with a personal mix of strap, watch face and packaging.

David is also hoping to expand the brand across the UK and is in talks with a number of major retailers which he believes will be ideal stockists for Slappie.

He said: “I was looking for a new challenge and really wanted to get involved in a business venture that would allow me to get hands on and develop a brand.

“Slappie is one of the most established slap watch brands in the world. The watches are fun, fresh and vibrant and are ideal to wear as fashion pieces, costume jewellery or even during sports activities. I’m confident that the development of new concepts and ideas will only inject more life into the product.

“There were no brokers involved, I approached the owner direct and Harrison Beale & Owen assisted with the corporate finance and due diligence side of the sale. It was all very simple which meant that I could focus my time on creating ideas to grow the business.

“I currently have 18 watch strap designs, 20 watch faces including a variety of crystal watch faces and 11 packaging designs. This means there are well over 300 different combinations available.

“The MySlappie concept will take this customisation to the next level. Everyone wants to be unique and this will give customers the opportunity to build their favourite design.

“My wife, Sinead, is heavily involved in the business so it is great to have that network of support. My aim this year is to expand the brand’s profile and to improve sales.”

Slappie was originally set up in 2011 by a 17-year-old entrepreneur from Switzerland.