A husband-and-wife team from Glasgow has unveiled an innovative, sustainable accessory and apparel line tailored specifically for DJs, producers, and audiophiles following a financial boost from the British Business Bank.
The enterprise, MXER, was founded by Christopher and Nicola Robertson, who manage their new venture alongside their roles as engineers and business development executives, respectively.
Christopher, a seasoned DJ, identified a growing trend of musicians using designer cross-body bags to transport their equipment.
This often leads to expensive damage and loss of headphones and music storage devices.
In response, the couple developed the flagship MXER Pro headphone bag, featuring two detachable compartments designed to protect headphones, USB drives, passports, smartphones, and SD cards.
The bag also includes a shoulder strap and a MXER belt. Its modular design allows DJs to customise their carrying style, and the detachable festival bag can be used independently as a daily accessory, reducing the need for multiple products.
The MXER Pro headphone bag is now available for purchase on the company’s website and at Rubadub, an independent music retailer on Howard Street in Glasgow’s city centre.
Customers can also explore a range of stylish MXER apparel designed by Nicola, a fashion graduate from Nottingham Trent University.
The Robertsons recently secured funding from the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme and Virgin StartUp to cover manufacturing and packaging costs.
The product is handcrafted from recycled, water-resistant ripstop nylon, making it a more environmentally friendly choice compared to other bags.
With ambitions to become the go-to brand for DJs and producers worldwide, MXER aims to collaborate with international artists to develop a line of products that cater to the global DJ community.
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Chris Robertson said: “As a DJ for over 20 years, I understand the importance of protecting expensive DJ equipment & priceless music saved on USB drives.
“At the same time, I also know that people in the music industry can be quite trend-driven, so I wanted to create a unique product that blends functionality with fashion.
“Sustainability was also a key factor in the design, and we have been working closely with our manufacturers to ensure that it meets the high standards we strive for in terms of environmental responsibility and durability.
“The funding and support from the British Business Bank was an essential stepping stone in bringing our product to market, and we’re very grateful for all the help we’ve received from our adviser at Virgin StartUp.”
The British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme has supported over 1,000 entrepreneurs and delivered more than £9 million in loans to new business owners in Glasgow since it began in 2012.
Barry McCulloch, senior manager, UK Network, Scotland at the British Business Bank, said: “MXER perfectly exemplifies the entrepreneurial drive and creativity that the Start Up Loans programme is all about. Christopher and Nicola have transformed their skills and hobbies into a thriving business, filling a niche in the global DJ market.
“I’m excited to see what’s next in terms of artist collaborations and to watch the business continue to flourish and grow.”
Andy Fishburn, managing director at Virgin StartUp, added: “It’s great when founders like Christopher and Nicola prove that you can develop a product that is both fun and sustainable and we love their ambition to take MXER global.
“It’s been a pleasure to be part of their start-up journey and we hope they keep in touch on our new online Virgin StartUp Community for UK founders.”
