Gallery
Businessman launches two-in-one facemasks in support of MIND charity
Muzl's two-in-one facemask double-up as a wrist wallet. - Credit: Anthony Higson
A Yatton salesman has launched a lockdown-inspired business venture in support of mental health charity, MIND - and is offering a Black Friday sale.
Anthony Higson launches his new website for his business Muzl on December 1, with 10 per cent of proceeds going to the MIND charity.
The company produces recyclable, waterproof, facemasks which double up as wrist wallets - a potential gap in the market Anthony was keen to address.
Mr Higson said: "I had noticed a gap in the market for two-in-one facemasks as I was shopping during the first lockdown. As I left the store and looked at my mask I thought about the idea of turning the air filters into pockets and wrapping it around my wrist - and that is what I have done.
"I am looking further than the current pandemic though. I believe after this the public will have a different view on facemasks and we will begin to adopt the same idea as some Asian countries by wearing them to avoid seasonal flu as well as the coronavirus."
After patenting the design, his thoughts soon turned to using the business as a means to aid mental health charities.
"I have struggled with chronic depression all my life and wanted the brand to work together with a charity that I have the utmost respect for, MIND.
Most Read
- 1 Rapid coronavirus tests offered to people in North Somerset
- 2 RNLI helm retires after nearly two decades of saving lives at sea
- 3 School offering transport to vaccination appointments
- 4 Storyboat 700+ sets sail in Portishead for 2021
- 5 Clevedon school launches pop up shop to support low income families
- 6 Clevedon strengthen squad with signing of Gloucestershire duo Higgins and Warner
- 7 Hundreds of North Somerset patients receive coronavirus vaccine
- 8 Congresbury Tennis Club bucks Covid trend
- 9 Portishead GP reminds people to wait for coronavirus vaccine call
- 10 Police thank Portishead community after call leads to arrests for vehicle crime
"Every pre-order will receive a 20 per-cent discount at checkout - with 10 per-cent of that purchase price being donated to the charity."
As a salesman for 23 years, Anthony admitted he had learnt to put on a brave face - something he fears many others may have been doing throughout the pandemic period.
"We suffer in silence, men in particular. It can almost be seen as weak to admit you are struggling - but no one can find it easy to cope when isolation cuts your support network."
The businessman also revealed how he had embraced the outdoors during lockdown - a process he felt many may be able to relate to but could not admit themselves.
Mr Higson said: "I walk in the Mendip Hills - it is beautiful. I previously thought, and some men may still think, that you could not say to your friends down the pub 'do you know I sometimes enjoy watching the sunrise in the morning?'
"It might seem silly to some people, but submerging yourself in nature and appreciating the simple things can help clear your head.
Muzl is also open to including other businesses branding on its products alongside MIND charity.
To purchase a two-in-one Muzle facemask, log on to www.muzl.co.uk