Nick Robertson – The Visionary Businessman Who Built ASOS and Faced Highs and Lows
Inspiring journey of Nick Robertson, the former CEO of ASOS.com, whose entrepreneurial spirit transformed online fashion retail while balancing both triumphs and challenges.
Introduction
Nick Robertson is a name that resonates strongly in the world of business and fashion retail. As the co-founder and former CEO of ASOS.com, he played a pivotal role in shaping one of the world’s most influential online fashion platforms. His story is one of creativity, ambition, and perseverance, where he turned a small idea into a global empire.
Yet Robertson’s journey was not free from challenges. From corporate highs to personal struggles, his path demonstrates both the inspiring rewards of innovation and the tough realities of leadership. His biography provides a glimpse into the man who brought fashion closer to millions while showing resilience through both success and setbacks.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nicholas John Robertson |
| Date of Birth | November 1967 |
| Age | 57 years old |
| Nationality | British |
| Birthplace | United Kingdom |
| Education | Canford School, Dorset |
| Spouse | Janine (divorced) |
| Children | 3 |
| Net Worth | Approx. £220 million (2016 est.) |
| Famous For | Co-founder & Former CEO of ASOS.com |
| Current Roles | Chair of ASOS Foundation, Chair of Gandys International, Director at AFC Wimbledon |
Early Life and Education
Nick Robertson was born in November 1967 in the United Kingdom. He attended Canford School in Dorset, where his natural flair for creativity and business strategy began to take shape. Instead of following a traditional university path, he decided to pursue his ambitions directly in the corporate world, showing the determination and independence that would later define his career.
Growing up in a family with entrepreneurial connections, Robertson was exposed to the dynamics of business early. His brother, Nigel Robertson, would go on to found FreePages, highlighting a shared family spirit of innovation and enterprise. These early influences inspired Nick to take bold steps into industries that were on the verge of transformation.
Starting Out in Business
Robertson began his professional journey in advertising. In 1987, he joined Young & Rubicam as a media buyer, gaining first-hand experience of branding, consumer behavior, and the fast-paced world of corporate marketing. This foundation gave him a keen sense of how products could be positioned and how audiences could be influenced.
In 1996, Robertson co-founded Entertainment Marketing, an agency that specialized in product placements on television. This idea was ahead of its time, capitalizing on the link between consumer culture and entertainment. It was this very concept—selling products seen on screen—that later sparked the groundbreaking idea for ASOS.com.
Founding of ASOS.com
In 2000, Nick Robertson co-founded AsSeenOnScreen.com, which soon evolved into ASOS.com. The original idea was to sell products that appeared in TV shows and films, but it quickly pivoted toward fashion retail, after Robertson realized how powerful clothing and style could be in driving sales.
Under his leadership, ASOS grew rapidly. The company transitioned from a niche platform into the largest online-only fashion retailer in the UK. Robertson understood the importance of digital innovation, creating a user-friendly website that appealed to a younger audience. With an ever-expanding product line and creative marketing strategies, ASOS became synonymous with affordable, trendy fashion.
Career Highlights as CEO
Serving as CEO of ASOS from 2000 to 2015, Robertson oversaw extraordinary growth. During his tenure:
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2001: ASOS went public on the London AIM exchange.
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2004 onwards: The company launched its own fashion lines, strengthening brand identity.
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2011: Robertson was honored with an OBE for services to the retail industry.
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By the mid-2010s, ASOS had millions of active customers across multiple countries and was generating revenues in the billions.
His leadership focused on innovation, speed, and adaptability, with ASOS often leading in e-commerce strategies such as fast delivery and strong social media engagement.
Challenges and Setbacks
While his success with ASOS was remarkable, Robertson also faced personal and professional challenges. In 2015, he stepped down as CEO amid shifting dynamics within the company, passing the reins to Nick Beighton. This decision reflected the pressure and responsibility of running a global fashion giant.
On the personal side, Robertson’s divorce in 2016 drew public attention when he was ordered to pay £70 million to his former wife, Janine, in what became one of the UK’s largest divorce settlements. This event, although difficult, highlighted the personal sacrifices often hidden behind high-profile success stories.
Business Ventures Beyond ASOS
Even after stepping down, Robertson remained deeply involved in entrepreneurial projects. He diversified into new ventures such as:
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Kidly.co.uk – An innovative platform for children’s clothing and toys.
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TackleTarts.uk – A marketplace for fishing and angling enthusiasts.
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AFC Wimbledon – Became a minority shareholder and later a director of the football club in 2020.
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ASOS Foundation & Gandys International – Serving as Chair to support charitable causes and global initiatives.
These ventures showcase his versatility as a businessman, applying his knowledge to both consumer industries and philanthropic work.
Net Worth and Financial Influence
Nick Robertson’s wealth is a reflection of his business achievements. With an estimated net worth of around £220 million, his primary income comes from ASOS shares, investments, and dividends. Even after stepping down as CEO, he retained millions of shares in the company. In 2023, he sold shares worth about £1 million, yet still maintained a 2.2% stake in ASOS, proving his long-term belief in the company he built.
Latest News and Updates
Recent developments have kept Robertson in the business headlines. In 2023, he reduced part of his ASOS stake during a period when the company faced financial challenges, including a loss of nearly £300 million and a declining share price. Despite this, he continues to maintain a strong presence as a shareholder and entrepreneur.
Additionally, his role at AFC Wimbledon and ongoing board responsibilities highlight his active involvement in business and community initiatives. He remains a respected voice in British retail and entrepreneurship.
Conclusion
Nick Robertson’s life is a powerful reminder of the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. From co-founding ASOS.com and revolutionizing online fashion to navigating personal challenges and diversifying his ventures, Robertson has left an undeniable mark on the business world.
His story is not just about wealth or success—it is about resilience, vision, and the ability to adapt in changing times. Whether celebrated for building ASOS into a global fashion powerhouse or admired for his ongoing ventures, Nick Robertson’s journey continues to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs.
FAQs
Q1: Who is Nick Robertson?
Nick Robertson is a British businessman best known as the co-founder and former CEO of ASOS.com, one of the world’s largest online fashion retailers.
Q2: What is Nick Robertson’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated at around £220 million, largely from his ASOS shares and business ventures.
Q3: Was Nick Robertson awarded any honors?
Yes, he was appointed OBE in 2011 for services to the fashion retail industry.
Q4: Is Nick Robertson still involved with ASOS?
Although he stepped down as CEO in 2015, he remains a significant shareholder and continues to follow the company closely.
Q5: What other businesses has he invested in?
Robertson has invested in Kidly.co.uk, TackleTarts.uk, and holds a minority stake in AFC Wimbledon, along with his leadership roles in ASOS Foundation and Gandys International.
