Aberdeen’s independent retail scene has welcomed a new addition with the opening of AK Positive, a fashionable activewear/gym clothes and supplements brand that launched its first physical store at 517 George Street on Saturday, the 8th of November.
The business, founded by partners Ali and Karol Grzona,, has been steadily building a loyal following since its launch in 2020. The move to a bricks-and-mortar shop marks a major next step for the brand, which blends functional athletic wear with contemporary street style.
Owner Karol Grzona said the name AK Positive reflects the ethos behind the business. “The name comes from our names – Ali and Karol. We’ve been building this brand together since 2 September 2020. We wanted a name that reflects our character and the way we approach life. Positive energy, action and a belief in growth have been the foundation of this brand from the very beginning.”
The decision to open in Aberdeen came after identifying a gap in the market for locally designed activewear. “What pushed us to open AK Positive in Aberdeen was seeing how many active, style-aware people live here, yet there was no place offering clothing designed from scratch rather than copied from big chains,” Karol explained. “We want to fill that gap and give the city pieces that combine style, comfort and quality.”
AK Positive’s aesthetic combines modern streetwear with the performance needs of people constantly on the move. All items are designed and produced in-house, allowing full control over quality and craftsmanship. “Our clothing stands out because it’s practical, durable and has its own identity, instead of being a mass-produced product,” he added.
Womenswear led & Designed by Simone
AK Positive’s womenswear collection is led by Simone Grzona , the brand’s Chief Brand and Operations Officer. With Master’s degrees in Psychology, Business Management and Human Resources, and a career as a senior HR professional in the oil and gas sector, she combines strong commercial insight with a long-standing creative flair.
From providing beauty services in the past to now designing AK Positive’s distinctive womenswear, Simone plays a central role in shaping the look and feel of the brand. The entire women’s collection has been developed under her direction, reflecting her passion for creating pieces that are stylish, functional and empowering for women who want to look good and feel confident while on the move.
Early customer response has been overwhelmingly positive. According to Karol, one moment in particular confirmed the decision to open the store was the right one. “The moment that confirmed we made the right choice was in the first days after opening – seeing people not only browsing, but actually leaving the store wearing our pieces. That gave us real confidence that we’re moving in the right direction.”
As AK Positive looks ahead, the focus is on continuing to grow while contributing to Aberdeen’s flourishing independent retail scene. “Customers keep coming back and tell us that Aberdeen needed a brand like this,” Karol said. “We hope to keep expanding and to be part of strengthening the local community of independent retailers.”
To mark its first major retail milestone, AK Positive is running a Black Friday promotion, offering 15% off all products for one day only on Friday the 28th – giving new customers an opportunity to explore the range at an exclusive price.
More information on the brand and its collections can be found at: akpositive.com or by following them on Facebook.
