5 Minutes With… Scott Gordon of The Gordon Group Lurgan
Brothers Scott and Stuart Gordon behind The Gordon Group in Lurgan went into business together 19 years ago when they struggled to find decent quality football boots without the flashy colours!
Back then, their business was called The Beautiful Game and while that beautiful game is still at the heart of everything they do – they have now branched out to supply an array of team wear, work wear, PE kits, embroidery and trophies.
We put a few questions to one half of the company, Scott Gordon to find out more:
Why did you choose being a Sports shop / Embroiderer as a career/business?
My brother Stuart and I started the business 19 years ago.
Back then, we struggled to find decent quality football boots that were plain black, without all the flashy colours. That frustration led us to start the shop, which was originally called The Beautiful Game.
Our aim was simple—provide “proper” football boots that appealed to players who preferred a more classic, understated style.
Over the years, we’ve expanded, but that focus on quality and simplicity is still at the heart of what we do.
What are you most proud of in your career to date?
I think our longevity. I’d say our longevity is what I’m most proud of.
When we started in 2006, there were only a handful of businesses in Northern Ireland doing what we were doing.
Now, there are plenty more, but we’re still just as busy as we’ve ever been. That’s a testament to the hard work and dedication we’ve put in over the years, and we’re always striving to keep it that way.
What is your favourite thing about your job?
Every day is different, which keeps things exciting.
One day, I might be printing shirts for a new football team, and the next, I could be kitting out an equestrian team for a school or engraving trophies for a local football league.
The variety in what we do is something I really enjoy — it keeps me on my toes and always learning.
What has been the biggest challenge in your job?
Keeping up with change has probably been the biggest challenge.
Whether it’s the move towards online shopping, or the rising costs of materials, we’ve had to constantly adapt to stay competitive.
We’ve also had to learn new skills over the years, like embroidery, printing techniques, and using different types of software, all while making sure our customer service stays strong.
It’s a challenge — but it’s also part of what keeps the job interesting.
What is the most helpful advice that you have been given?
Probably to focus on doing the basics really well. It’s easy to get caught up trying to do everything or chasing trends, but if you concentrate on providing a good product, being reliable, and looking after your customers, people will come back.
That advice has stuck with us from day one, and it’s still how we try to run the business.
If you could choose anything else to do, what would it be?
To be honest, I’m already lucky enough to do the things I love.
My role in the business is part-time, while my brother Stuart runs it full-time, and alongside that I work as a PE and ICT teacher.
I also run a soccer school in Lurgan called For The Love of the Game. So between education, sport, and the business, I get to do a mix of things I’m passionate about.
If I had to choose something else, it would still be something in the world of sport, coaching, or helping young people develop.
What do you think your best quality is?
I’d say my best quality is a strong work ethic and being honest in everything I do.
Whether it’s dealing with customers in the shop, working with students in school, or coaching young players, I believe in showing up, giving 100%, and being upfront with people.
I think if you’re consistent, honest, and not afraid of hard work, people respect that — and it helps build trust in everything you’re involved in.
Name three things that you like doing outside of work.
Outside of work, I enjoy playing golf when I get the chance — it’s a great way to switch off.
Spending time with family is really important to me too, especially with how busy life can get.
And just catching up with friends, whether it’s over a coffee or at a match, is something I always make time for.
Tell us about a secret skill that we don’t know you have.
I’ve got a bit of a knack for spotting fonts — show me a design, and there’s a good chance I can tell you the name of the font just by looking at it.
It’s probably something I’ve picked up over the years working with kit designs, logos, and embroidery. I’m also a bit of a spreadsheet nerd — I like to keep things organised, and I’ve usually got a spreadsheet on the go for just about everything.
It might not sound exciting, but it definitely keeps things running smoothly!
What is your most prized possession?
Without a doubt — my kids. Nothing comes close. Everything I do, whether it’s work, teaching, or coaching, is ultimately for them.
They keep me grounded, motivated, and proud every single day.
What is your favourite food?
I’m a big fan of Italian food — there’s nothing like a good pasta dish or pizza. It’s comfort food at its best, and I’m always up for trying new Italian restaurants or recipes.
What is your favourite book?
Anything by Michael Connelly. I’m a huge fan of his writing, especially the Harry Bosch series.
What are you currently watching?
I’m always keeping up with sports, especially football. Right now, I’m following the Premier League closely.
I’m also a fan of documentaries about legendary players and teams — stuff like The Last Dance about Michael Jordan and All or Nothing with various football clubs.
And of course, I’m loving Ted Lasso — it’s got that perfect mix of football, humour, and heart. Anything that gives an inside look into the game, I’m all for!
If you were to watch a band/singer live, who would it be?
That’s an easy one. Sam Fender is on repeat in the car, at home and on my walks with the dog.
Dead or alive, who would you most want to meet and why?
I would love to have met Sir Bobby Robson. He was not only an incredible football manager but also a true gentleman of the game.
His passion for football, his leadership, and the way he connected with players and fans alike is something I really admired.