Daniel Yuen and Edge Hill alumnus Kieran Riddell-Austin co-founded the Liverpool-based sportswear range in 2019.
The pair will receive Honorary Doctorates of Business Administration during the University’s summer graduation ceremonies, which will see about 4,000 students celebrate the completion of their degrees.
Daniel Yuen said: “A huge thank you to Edge Hill for this incredible honour. Our journey has been built on hard work, grit and determination, but we certainly didn’t get here alone.
“It is truly humbling to know that our story could inspire the next generation of students to follow their own dreams.”
Montirex grew from Kieran’s family kitchen into a UK phenomenon, driven by a vision and belief that sportswear could be redefined. Launching with just three t-shirts, the brand is now celebrated for its premium, stylish and accessible products. Today, the company operates from a 52,000 sq ft headquarters in Speke, Liverpool, employing more than 100 people locally.
Daniel and Kieran secured exclusive retail partnerships with Footasylum, JD Sports & ASOS, helping propel the brand onto the national and international stage. Their achievements were further recognised in 2024 when they were named on the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe list for Retail and E-Commerce.
For Kieran, receiving the Edge Hill honour carries particular significance as a graduate of the University. His journey from student to successful entrepreneur reflects Edge Hill’s values of ambition, innovation and determination that continue to inspire current students and fellow graduates alike.
He said: “My time at Edge Hill University played an important role in shaping both my personal growth and entrepreneurial mindset.
“Although I ultimately chose a different path from the one I originally planned, the experience gave me the confidence, resilience and ambition to pursue my own vision.”
The award announcement coincides with the launch of The Montirex Foundation on 27 May, the brand’s new charitable initiative focussed on giving back to their community and supporting young people through sport, mental health and community projects.
The Foundation aims to create opportunities for young people by improving physical and mental wellbeing, grassroots sport and community development across the UK.
Professor Kurt Allman, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Edge Hill University, said: “Daniel and Kieran have built an extraordinary success story through innovation, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Their journey from ambitious young entrepreneurs to leaders of one of the UK’s fastest-growing sportswear brands is truly inspiring.
“Kieran’s achievements as an Edge Hill graduate demonstrate the transformative power of education, while both Daniel and Kieran exemplify the importance of community, civic responsibility and giving back, which the University seeks to nurture.
“We are proud to recognise their exceptional accomplishments with these Honorary Doctorate awards.”
Since launching Montirex, the pair have become role models for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly for young people from working-class communities across the North West.
And pride in their roots has been demonstrated through acts such as donating to and raising awareness of Zoe’s Place in Liverpool following a public fundraising appeal to save the baby hospice from closure.
Through their leadership, they continue to champion innovation, regional pride and opportunity, while inspiring the next generation of business leaders.
Find out more about Edge Hill’s honorary awards.
May 27, 2026
