Strongman Stoltman brothers Luke and Tom in Invergordon 'pop-up shop' venture as duo seek to build home town legacy
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STRONGMAN siblings supported by their local Easter Ross community in their successful bids to make a mark on the world are now determined to repay the faith shown in them.
Luke and Tom Stoltman have spoken of their desire to build a legacy for their home town of Invergordon which last month showed its appreciation by staging a street party in their honour.
Tom is holder of the World’s Strongest Man title, which he has won twice on the trot, and Luke has won the Europe’s Strongest Man accolade.
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Over the past week they have been delighting visitors to a pop-up shop on the High Street, with merchandise sales being handled by younger brother Harry.
Meanwhile local company Ross-shire engineering (RSE) has agreed to allow them to use one of its warehouses for their events training.
Luke said: “When they heard about us losing our space in Invergordon they got in touch within a few days.
“It was really humbling to see what support we have in the local area, and such a kind gesture from the folk at RSE.
“At the moment we are just in the process of moving our equipment over there, and plan to start training there a day or two a week within the next month – keep an eye on our YouTube channel for updates!”
The merchandise “started a couple of years ago as a bit of fun” but now t-shirts, hoodies, hats and swimming robes are selling well.
Luke said: “Our local community is really important to us, that’s why we have always chosen to stay here in Invergordon with our gym, our office and now shop. People often have said to us you would be more profitable being located in say Edinburgh or Glasgow, or even Inverness, but that was never going to be the way we would go. Invergordon has supported us as we have grown to become World and European champions, and so we want to give a bit back now.”
They will assess the success of the pop-up shop before deciding whether to expand or take on extra staff.
They enjoy surprising customers: “We love to chat to folk and help try make some sales!”
The duo closed the shop on Friday the day after the death of Queen Elizabeth II out of respect.
