A Liverpool-based nutrition company has achieved a remarkable milestone, growing from a humble spare bedroom operation into a global enterprise with a turnover of £55 million in just thirteen years.
From Runcorn Unit to Speke Campus: A Journey of Expansion
Founded in 2012 by Mark Coxhead, Protein Works began its life in a solitary industrial unit in Runcorn. The company, which specialises in protein shakes, wellness supplements, high-protein snacks, and complete meal replacements, has since distributed over 450 million shakes worldwide. Its customer base now exceeds 2.5 million people across the globe.
This May, the firm showcased its significant growth with the unveiling of a new, £10 million state-of-the-art warehouse facility at its PW Campus in Speke, Liverpool. This marks a dramatic evolution from its modest origins.
Bridging the Gap: Protein for Everyone
Chief Executive Laura Keir, who joined the business in 2015, credits the brand's success to its early vision of making protein accessible beyond the traditional gym enthusiast. "There was a gap in the market," Keir explained. She noted that protein was historically targeted at fitness fans and was not marketed towards women or everyday consumers.
"No one would have predicted protein exploding," she added. "But we know it's one of the most important macro nutrients. Mark knew if he could crack the code and bridge the gap between gym-goers and every day people's needs it would be a success."
Protein Works was a pioneer, established three years before major rival Huel entered the market in 2015.
Rigorous Standards and Future Ambitions
Keir emphasises the company's commitment to quality and customer feedback. "We have trust with people too. Everything we make is rigorously tested and we only use high quality ingredients," she said. The company employs a strict policy where any product failing to achieve an 80% customer satisfaction rate on taste is reformulated.
All business functions, from distribution to promotion, are handled internally. The firm is committed to investing in talent in the North West and has ambitious plans for the future. Keir revealed that Protein Works aims to double in size over the next three years and hopes to become a household name.
The brand's momentum shows no sign of slowing. During Black Friday alone (28 November 2025), the company sold over 1.18 million shakes. As the public's obsession with protein continues to dominate supermarket aisles, this Liverpool-born success story is poised for its next chapter of growth.
