Episode 3: Will Butler-Adams on Growing Brompton Bicycle from 27 Staff to 800 Strong
Join us as we journey through the remarkable transformation of Brompton Bicycle under the leadership of Will Butler-Adams. This is the story of how a small British company with passionate origins evolved into a global urban mobility leader without compromising its core values or craftsmanship.
From Workshop to World Stage
When Will Butler-Adams joined Brompton, it was a modest operation with just 27 employees dedicated to creating exceptional folding bikes. Today, that same company employs over 800 people, operates in more than 50 countries, and stands as a testament to thoughtful, purposeful growth. Brompton didn't simply expand—it evolved, maintaining its commitment to quality engineering while embracing its role in reshaping urban transportation.
The Art of Scaling with Integrity
The Brompton story illustrates that growth doesn't have to come at the expense of a company's soul. Under Will's guidance, Brompton faced crucial decisions that would define its future: keeping manufacturing in the UK despite global pressure to outsource, balancing innovation with respect for the original design, and transforming a product into a movement that resonates with urban commuters worldwide.
Leadership Lessons from the Workshop Floor
Will Butler-Adams didn't set out with grandiose visions of changing the world—he focused on building an exceptional company that delivered on its promises. Along the way, he developed insights on navigating rapid growth, making decisions that align with core values, and creating a brand that doesn't just respond to change but anticipates it.
In this episode of Pivotal Moments, Will shares his practical wisdom on leading through transformation, scaling with purpose, and building a community around a product that represents more than just transportation—it represents freedom, sustainability, and smarter city living.
Tune in to Pivotal Moments Episode 3: Will Butler-Adams on Growing Brompton Bicycle from 27 Staff to 800 Strong https://youtu.be/mcvnL13-Xdc
Join Will Butler-Adams and Tait Pollack for a no-nonsense conversation on what it really takes to build a brand that lasts.
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