Fresh from being named as a finalist in the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, I caught up with Marc Brown, the brains behind Sporting Hares. Marc isn’t new to this blog as we’ve chatted about packaging before, but as an admirer of the brand and what it’s achieved in a very short space of time, I wanted to have a chat with Marc and find out more about his business and what makes it extra special.
Tell us about you and your background
I’m from a farming background having spent all of my life in Mid-Wales. In 2011 I graduated from University in Marketing and, within weeks, started up Sporting Hares which, for the past six years, has dominated everything I do with the exception of the odd break for tennis, golf and shooting.
What made you want to start Sporting Hares?
The sheer unlimited scope that you can work with. There is no glass-ceiling on your ambitions and everything is an option.
How is Sporting Hares different?
We have a unique, personal ethos at Sporting Hares. We all focus on the highest quality results in our work which passes through in to our products, marketing and branding. We run from a working farm and live the lifestyle we instil in our brand, making it all the more authentic.
What makes your products special?
Every product we bring to the market has gone through a long process of ‘is it unique?’, ‘can it improve the life of the consumer?’, ‘does it carry our Brand DNA naturally?’. Even the tiniest of touches have gone through a stringent process before being confirmed on all of our products because we love what we do and we want our market to love their new Sporting Hares piece.
If you had to sum up your business in five words, what would they be?
Exciting British Countryside Lifestyle Brand
Do you have a motto or ethos?
Our ethos is to maintain the highest craftsmanship in our products and match it with the highest customer service. We are our own customers, so we know the difference going the extra mile to meet the needs of the market can make.
If you could give one piece of advice to an aspiring business owner, what would it be?
You have to love the product/service you are providing. Business is so much easier when your own products/service excite you.
One thing that helps you run Sporting Hares more effectively
I simply could not be without my Laptop or Phone. They allow me to do any job (with the exception of order packing) anywhere in the World.
Best thing about running a business?
No glass ceiling. The world’s your Oyster.
Worst thing about running a business?
Trying to shut off. My friends all finish at 5 and have no responsibilities until 9 the next morning. I’m constantly doing/reading/writing something work-related.
Top business blog you follow
In all honesty Rhea, your blog!
Top business book you’ve read
Alan Sugar’s biography. Inspired me to apply for The Apprentice in 2014 – got through the auditions too.
One thing we might not know about you
I am a through-and-through swot. I loved my academia years. After averaging the highest grades in my University, I was rewarded with Afternoon Tea with HRH The Prince of Wales.
Top business achievement
Being crowned Fashion Entrepreneur of 2015 by the Entrepreneur Wales Awards. Just this morning (11th September ’17) I learned Sporting Hares has been named a finalist in the prestigious Great British Entrepreneur Awards 2017.
Where can people follow you or your Sporting Hares online
Our website is www.sportinghares.com. We are also on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter as #sportinghares
gorgeous branding too. And you know what else? The people behind the brand. Here I chat to Melanie, one part of Mackenzie & George, and chat about her business.
event. 
products are practical, wearable and will last for many, many years (we even 
We’re a bit more on top of demand now, but desperately need an apprentice in the workshop.