Behind the scenes with HKT: The team powering Trash Free Trails' shop
At Trash Free Trails, our mission goes beyond clearing single-use pollution from the trails we love — it’s also about building an ecosystem of dedicated partners who share our vision of protecting healthy and connected trails. One of our most valued collaborators is HKT Products, alongside Shaw Print Services, who have transformed how we manage our shop. What started as a few small pop-up events has grown into a fully operational online storefront, enabling supporters and volunteers to access our gear anytime, help fund and amplify our mission. As the holiday season approaches, we sat down with Mark to reflect on our journey together!
How HKT and TFT connected
HKT Products was founded over a decade ago and began as a passion project among mountain bikers in Sheffield. The team focused on high-quality, locally made bike accessories, from frame kits to custom mudguards. The partnership with TFT began organically as we needed help managing merchandise distribution, which, at the time, involved pop-up shops run a few times a year. Mark offered a solution to centralise TFT’s inventory in their Sheffield warehouse and provide a dedicated online storefront, allowing supporters to access TFT merchandise 24/7. This approach streamlined our operations big time!
Why supporting Trash Free Trails matters
For Mark and the HKT team, supporting TFT is personal. As a lifelong mountain biker, Mark has seen first-hand how trails have evolved — both for better and worse. “Litter impacts everyone who loves the outdoors,” he says. “Whether you’re a biker, runner, or hiker, we all have a responsibility to protect these spaces.”
HKT’s involvement goes beyond logistics as their Shaw Print Services branch produces our top quality Community Hub posters and flyers. This collaboration ensures that more resources can be focused on trail-cleaning initiatives as Mark emphasizes that this isn’t just business: “It’s about building a network of companies that give back, no matter their size."
How the partnership inspires others
Hosting a TFT section on HKT’s website has been an eye-opener for many customers. “There’s still a huge number of people who haven’t heard of Trash Free Trails,” Mark admits. “But we see people discovering your work through us which is amazing.”
Social media also plays a key role, with HKT highlighting TFT’s current discounts and encouraging their biking community to get involved. By integrating trail conservation into their brand, HKT hopes to inspire a ripple effect of awareness and action.
A tip for responsible consumers
As we head into the holiday season, Mark shares one piece of advice for shoppers: “Think about where you’re buying from; look at what those companies are doing to help the environment." From purchasing locally-made products to choosing companies that prioritise sustainability, small decisions can have a big impact.
For HKT, that commitment means focusing on Sheffield-made goods — with over 80% of their products manufactured locally, it minimises air miles, supports local jobs, and aligns with the values of their customers.
A network built on shared values
As Mark puts it, “It’s all about working together. From local companies to global brands, the more we support each other, the better chance we have of keeping our trails trash-free.”
Whether you’re looking for custom bike products, printed mudguards, or simply want to support the Trash Free Trails mission, HKT’s website has something for everyone. Be sure to head to their site to discover how their custom services can help bring your ideas to life — all while backing a worthwhile business!
Images and words by Sarah-Jane Brown
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