Julian Dunkerton

As the sale of Matalan and the float of New Look fell by the wayside, a once relatively unknown young fashion group rocketed into the limelight and gave investors something they did not yet believe in - a really strong growth story.

Dunkerton’s rags-to-riches story reads almost like a fairy tale. He started at age 19 with a market stall. When the business was floated earlier this year it was valued at £400m, with Dunkerton receiving a £200m windfall.

So far there seems little sign he will take his foot off the pedal at SuperGroup and run off to enjoy his riches. Full-year sales for the business soared 83% in its first listed update to £139m. Dunkerton is an extremely hands-on boss and despite his laid-back demeanour he is involved in every detail of his business.

Dunkerton’s business is fortunate to be in the relatively recession-proof young fashion market. He says his customers “want to get laid” and look good, and are not so worried about the macro economic climate.