Oliver Tress: The Creative Force Behind Oliver Bonas and His Entrepreneurial Legacy

In the bustling world of British retail, few names have carved a niche quite like Oliver Tress. Best known as the founder and driving force behind the lifestyle and fashion brand Oliver Bonas, Oliver Tress has built a retail empire rooted in creativity, originality, and a deep sense of personal expression. Yet, beyond the well-known store fronts and curated collections lies the fascinating story of Oliver James Mark Tress — an entrepreneur with vision, tenacity, and resilience.

This article explores everything from “Who is Oliver Tress?” and “Who is Oliver James Mark Tress?” to insights into his age, career milestones, personal life, and estimated net worth. Whether you’re a fan of the Oliver Bonas brand or simply intrigued by its founder, this in-depth look offers a comprehensive profile of a modern-day retail pioneer.

Early Life and Education: The Formative Years of Oliver Tress

Oliver James Mark Tress was born in May 1967 in Oxfordshire, England. Raised in a well-educated family — his father a banker and his mother a homemaker — Tress’s upbringing laid a solid foundation for the values and vision he would later bring into his entrepreneurial life.

Educated at Marlborough College in Wiltshire, a prestigious independent school, Tress went on to attend Durham University, where he studied anthropology at Hatfield College. Graduating in 1989, the subject may seem an unusual precursor to retail success, but it shaped Tress’s understanding of culture, people, and the importance of storytelling — elements now central to the Oliver Bonas ethos.

The Genesis of Oliver Bonas: A £3,000 Dream

In 1993, at the age of 25, Oliver Tress embarked on a journey that would redefine British high street retail. Using £3,000 of his savings, half of which went toward renting a small store on Fulham Road in London, Tress opened the first Oliver Bonas store. Initially, it featured handbags and jewelry sourced from Hong Kong, where his parents were living at the time.

The name “Bonas” was inspired by his then-girlfriend, Anna Bonas, a cousin of Cressida Bonas (famously linked to Prince Harry). Though their romantic relationship ended, the brand name stuck — evolving into one of the UK’s most recognizable lifestyle retailers.

Oliver Tress’s Career: From Boutique to Retail Powerhouse

The success of Oliver Bonas didn’t come overnight. Like many startups, the early years involved significant trial and error. However, what set Tress apart was his unique sense of style and customer-first philosophy. Every store, every product, and every campaign reflected a deep personal connection to the brand’s purpose: offering something just a bit different from the mainstream.

As the brand matured, it expanded its offering to include fashion, accessories, homeware, books, and gifts, with most products now designed in-house. This move gave the brand a distinctive, cohesive identity — creative, colorful, and culturally aware. Tress was adamant that Oliver Bonas wouldn’t just be a store; it would be an experience.

By 2023, the company boasted 83 stores across the UK and Ireland, employing around 1,500 people. The financials also told a story of success: in 2021 alone, Oliver Bonas generated revenues of £92.8 million and pre-tax profits of £7.5 million.

Oliver Tress: Age and Public Profile

So, how old is Oliver Tress? Born in May 1967, Oliver Tress is 57 years old as of April 2025. Despite being a public figure due to the popularity of his brand, Tress has largely maintained a relatively low-profile lifestyle. He rarely seeks media attention, preferring to let his brand and actions speak louder than any press headline.

He is sometimes confused with other personalities because of his full name — Oliver James Mark Tress — but they are all one and the same. Whether referred to formally or informally, he remains the mind and soul behind the Oliver Bonas journey.

Personal Life: Love, Family, and Controversies

In 2009, Oliver Tress married Gina Coladangelo, a businesswoman who later became known for her involvement in politics and public relations. Coladangelo was not only a director at the PR firm Luther Pendragon but also served as the marketing and communications director at Oliver Bonas.

Together, the couple has three children and lived a relatively private family life until 2021, when Gina was caught in a political scandal involving former UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock. The affair, which made national headlines during the COVID-19 pandemic, led to Coladangelo’s separation from Tress. Despite this personal turbulence, Tress continued to focus on his business and staff.

Challenges and Resilience: London Riots & Economic Downturns

The road to success has not been without its trials. During the 2011 London riots, Tress sustained head injuries while trying to protect one of his stores. It was a harrowing experience, but one that highlighted his deep commitment to his brand and staff.

Earlier, during the 2008 financial crisis, the brand experienced a significant 20% drop in sales. However, Tress steered the company through turbulent waters by staying true to his core brand values and adapting to customer needs.

One of his most lauded decisions came in 2015, when Oliver Bonas became the first UK high street retailer to adopt the Living Wage, setting a powerful example for the industry.

Oliver Tress Net Worth: How Wealthy is Oliver Tress?

What is Oliver Tress’s net worth? As of 2019, his estimated net worth was £12 million, according to various UK media reports. Given the expansion of Oliver Bonas and the healthy profits reported in recent years, it is likely that his net worth has grown significantly since then. However, Tress has never been one to flaunt wealth — his lifestyle and interviews reflect humility and purpose over opulence.

Mental Health Advocacy: Living with ADHD

Oliver Tress has openly spoken about having Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), adding another layer of relatability and honesty to his public persona. In interviews, he has described how his condition, while challenging at times, has helped fuel his creativity and passion for innovation — qualities that are abundantly evident in the Oliver Bonas brand.

Legacy and Impact: More Than Just a Retailer

Oliver Tress’s impact extends far beyond commercial success. Through Oliver Bonas, he has influenced the way people shop, decorate their homes, and express themselves. His emphasis on original design, ethical employment, and inclusive products has set new standards in retail.

Today, the stores are seen not just as shopping destinations, but as cultural spaces that celebrate diversity, individuality, and creativity. Tress has proven that business can be beautiful — not only in aesthetics but in values and leadership.

Conclusion: The Man Behind the Brand

From a small Fulham store with a £3,000 investment to a household name that resonates with millions, Oliver James Mark Tress exemplifies the spirit of modern entrepreneurship. His age, background, career, and personal story show that success isn’t always linear — it’s crafted with vision, grit, and heart.

For anyone asking “Who is Oliver Tress?” — he is a dreamer, a doer, and above all, a creator of a brand that continues to touch lives and brighten spaces.

To stay informed about the inspiring journeys of entrepreneurs like Oliver Tress and get exclusive insights into career paths, net worth, and success stories, be sure to visit Mating Press — your go-to hub for curated lifestyle and business content.