August Ninth
A New York Brand Company
I build consumer brands across apparel, product and lifestyle.
APRICARI is the first one I’m building for myself.
Latin for “to bask in the sun,” APRICARI is a men’s summer-lifestyle brand beginning with tailored swimwear.
I’m starting with A01. The Resort Short. A tailored look. The freedom to move. Something I’d feel great wearing.
Designed in New York. Crafted in Portugal.
I’m opening the process early. The Founders Circle is for anyone who wants to follow along, share what matters and see how a new brand gets built from the ground up.
Come see what I’m making.
Mission
A new chapter in brand building.
I’ve spent most of my career building brands for other people. August Ninth is the company I created to build brands of my own.
The work brings together the things I care about: thoughtful products, travel, craftsmanship and time with other people.
APRICARI is where I’m starting.
Founder & Managing MemberTroy Gorczyca
I’m a brand builder and marketer with more than 25 years of experience creating and growing consumer brands, from established global businesses to entrepreneurial ventures and new brands built from the ground up.
My career has spanned spirits, luxury, travel, hospitality, lifestyle and consumer products, with roles across brand strategy, innovation, product development, marketing and commercialization.
Born and raised in California and now based in New York, I’ve long been drawn to travel, design, craftsmanship, hospitality and the products and places that make time with other people feel more memorable.
August Ninth brings those interests together in a new chapter focused on apparel, product and lifestyle. APRICARI is the first consumer brand I’m building through the company, beginning with tailored swimwear developed between New York and Portugal.
Alongside building APRICARI, I continue to advise a select group of emerging consumer businesses.
Advisory
Alongside building APRICARI, I work selectively with founders and emerging consumer businesses.
I help clarify the brand, the product opportunity and the decisions that will move the business forward.
The work draws on more than 25 years of brand strategy, innovation and commercial experience.
The work is intentionally focused: senior-level judgment, clear choices and practical brand-building experience rather than a traditional agency model.
Get in Touch
Build with me.
I’m working with designers, product specialists, manufacturers and creative and operating partners to bring APRICARI to life.
If you share an interest in thoughtful products and building consumer brands, I’d like to hear from you.