Having launched the business from his brother's spare room in a converted garage for 14 months with just £500 and transformed it into a thriving £100 million business empire.   Simon Gardiner initially planned to earn money for a couple of years to launch an online retail business in men's clothing. However, he ended up in a recruitment role, which despite being challenging, turned out to be financially rewarding.   However, Simon went through a significant setback during the recession, which posed financial challenges for his business. His family, friends and external observers were sceptical about the viability of the venture.   Simon's experience during the recession becomes a pivotal point in his entrepreneurial journey, demonstrating resilience and determination in the face of adversity.   This period of struggle likely played a crucial role in shaping Simon's mindset and approach to business, emphasising the importance of perseverance and strategic decision-making.