A SPORTSWEAR firm has denied workers have lost their jobs after a business went into administration.

BLK says it is focused on growth and extending rugby team deals, as it bids to more than double its workforce to 50 staff.

Fears had been raised about the future of the Stockton-based business after Australian operator, World Rugby Specialists, described Down Under as its parent company, fell into administration.

One person contacted The Northern Echo saying it was their understanding around ten people, including sales staff, had lost their posts in the move.

However, BLK, which stands for Beyond Limits Known, claimed World Rugby Specialists’ woes will not affect its progress since it is owned by an independent business.

A statement from the company, which says it employs more than 20 staff and has a client book listing the Saracens rugby union team and England rugby league side, said it was “business as usual”.

It added: “The sad news colleagues in Australia have been forced to place their business into administration does not affect the trade of the independent business that owns the BLK sports brand in the UK.

“In fact, it presents us with an opportunity to become the leading rights holder for the brand in the world and expand into more territories as our business grows.

“Beyond Limits Known UK has recently received substantial private investment into its independent UK business.

“This has been used to purchase stock, forge meaningful relationships with leading sport franchises and to ensure the business has access to the design templates and intellectual property of this desirable and growing sports and leisure clothing range.

“The business will now partner with other worldwide licence holders to maintain and grow the range in different territories and expand into new sports and leisure activities.

“BLK United Kingdom is ready to take its business beyond limits to invest and grow.”

The company operates out of Stockton’s Orde Wingate Way and previously moved into a 15,000sq ft warehouse.

According to reports in Australia, World Rugby Specialists’ difficulties have forced Aussie Rules officials to hold crisis talks, since a number of its senior teams are signed up to deals with the company.

BLK, founded Down Under in 2011, is also known for providing kit to the US, Samoa and Fiji rugby union sides.