The mountain climbing gear industry in Europe is pivotal for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It includes specialized companies that design, manufacture, and sell equipment essential for safety and performance on demanding climbs. This market offers a wide range of products such as climbing ropes, harnesses, climbing shoes, and protective gear. With increasing participation in outdoor activities and a focus on eco-friendly practices, the industry is pointing towards sustainable innovations. This shift attracts investment, especially with the rise of new brands focused on technology-driven solutions. The European market plays a crucial role in shaping global climbing standards and advances.


European investors in the mountain climbing gear space include a mix of corporate, venture capital, and private equity firms. Notable names such as Frasers Group and JD Sports are well-established in this arena, reflecting a strong commitment to the outdoor equipment market. The list includes firms founded from 1945 to 2015, varying greatly in size with employee counts from a handful to over 10,000. In 2024, these investors participated in 198 deals showcasing their active stance in the climbing gear market, emphasizing a strategic approach to expand portfolios in recreational and outdoor sectors.


Top 16 Mountain Climbing Gear Investors in Europe


1. Crowdcube

  • Website: crowdcube.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: crowdcube-limited

Crowdcube is a London-based crowdfunding platform founded in 2010 that enables businesses to raise capital through equity investments. It connects startups and SMEs with potential investors, facilitating the funding process. The platform has a strong focus on promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce while providing investment management services to its clients. Notably, Crowdcube has been involved in several transactions within the mountain climbing gear context, including Alpkit, a specialist retailer of outdoor clothing and equipment, which raised £2.25m in 2022. Other relevant transactions include Jöttnar, which raised $1,674,302 in early 2023, and Tentsile, which raised $3,078 in 2019. These investments highlight Crowdcube's active role in supporting companies that cater to the outdoor and mountain climbing gear market.


2. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital investor based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. As a public entity and financial institution, Bpifrance supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through a range of services including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. The institution aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in several transactions relevant to the mountain climbing gear context, such as its investment in Snowleader, which raised $2,642,379 in a venture round in 2015, focusing on outdoor equipment. Additionally, Bpifrance participated in funding rounds for i-Run, a sports shoe and apparel retailer, which indicates its engagement in the broader sports and outdoor gear market. These transactions highlight Bpifrance's active role in supporting companies that align with the mountain climbing gear industry.


3. Frasers Group

  • Website: frasers.group
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1982
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 20
  • LinkedIn: frasers-group

Frasers Group plc is a corporate investor based in London, England, founded in 1982. The company operates various brands in the sports and fashion sectors, including Sports Direct and Jack Wills, and offers a wide range of products such as clothing, footwear, and sporting goods. Notably, Frasers Group has made significant acquisitions in the mountain climbing gear industry, including Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) in 2017, Field & Trek.Com Ltd in 2007, Karrimor in 2004, and Gelert Ltd in 2013. These acquisitions highlight Frasers Group's commitment to expanding its portfolio in the outdoor and climbing gear market, as these brands are well-regarded for their offerings in this niche. Additionally, the company is expanding its reach with plans to acquire Holdsport, further indicating its growth strategy in the retail sector, including outdoor sports.


4. JD Sports

  • Website: jdsports.co.uk
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: jdsports

JD Sports is a corporate investor based in the United Kingdom, specializing in sports and lifestyle apparel and footwear. Founded in 1981, the company has grown to operate over 10,000 stores and offers a diverse range of products for men, women, and children. In recent years, JD Sports has made significant acquisitions in the outdoor retail sector, enhancing its portfolio in mountain climbing and outdoor gear. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Tiso Group in 2013, which operates Alpine Bikes and George Fisher, both of which are relevant to mountain climbing. In 2016, JD Sports acquired Go Outdoors for £112.3 million, further expanding its footprint in the outdoor clothing market. Additionally, the acquisition of Blacks Outdoor in 2012 and Oswald Bailey in 2014 demonstrates JD Sports' ongoing commitment to the outdoor retail space. These strategic moves position JD Sports as a key player in the mountain climbing gear industry.


5. Ldc

  • Website: ldc.co.uk
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 15
  • LinkedIn: ldc

Lloyds Development Capital (LDC) is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. It specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. As part of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC focuses on helping management teams achieve their growth ambitions through investment and advisory services, fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success. Notably, LDC has made significant investments in the outdoor and sports gear sector, including a substantial minority stake in Mountain Warehouse, a UK outdoor clothing retailer, which was valued at over £50 million. This investment aimed to support Mountain Warehouse's growth plans, targeting over 200 stores and an annual turnover of £100 million by 2014. Additionally, LDC's acquisition of ZyroFisher, a distributor of cycling and outdoor products, further emphasizes their engagement in the outdoor gear market. These transactions highlight LDC's commitment to supporting businesses that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, including mountain climbers.


6. 3i Group plc

  • Website: 3i.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1945
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: 3i-group-plc

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity firm founded in 1945, specializing in private equity and infrastructure investments. The firm focuses on providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, helping them grow sustainably. With a strong international presence and a diverse portfolio, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Notably, 3i Group has made significant investments in the outdoor and adventure sports sector, including a substantial minority stake in GO Outdoors for £28 million in 2011, which supports the company's growth plans in expanding its retail presence. Additionally, their acquisition of Rohan Designs in 1991 highlights their commitment to the outdoor clothing market, further reinforcing their relevance in the mountain climbing gear context. These transactions demonstrate 3i Group's active involvement in the outdoor industry, making them a suitable investor for mountain climbing gear.


7. Kima Ventures

  • Website: kimaventures.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 50
  • LinkedIn: kima-ventures

Kima Ventures is a Paris-based venture capital firm founded in 2010, specializing in early-stage investments across various sectors. The firm is known for backing two startups per week, providing them with both financial support and mentorship to navigate their initial challenges. Among their notable transactions, Kima Ventures invested in Hardloop, a French outdoor sports e-tailer that raised €3 million in 2022, focusing on environmentally and socially responsible products. They also participated in the funding of Barooders, a marketplace for used sporting goods, and Explora Project, which promotes positive-impact adventure tourism. These investments highlight Kima Ventures' engagement with the outdoor and adventure sectors, which are closely related to mountain climbing gear.


8. Altor Equity Partners

  • Website: altor.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 2003
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: altor

Altor Equity Partners is a private equity investment management firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2003. The firm specializes in providing consulting services across various sectors, including technology and consumer products, with a focus on enhancing operational efficiency and sustainable growth. Altor has made significant investments in the outdoor and sports equipment industry, including the acquisition of Rossignol in 2013, a prominent brand in skiing and outdoor gear. They also participated in funding rounds for Revolution Race, which specializes in outdoor apparel, and XXL Sport & Villmark, a retailer of outdoor and sporting goods. These transactions highlight Altor's commitment to the outdoor gear market, making them a relevant player in the mountain climbing gear sector.


9. Verdane

  • Website: verdane.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: verdane-capital

Verdane is a private equity investment firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 1985. The firm specializes in growth equity investments, primarily targeting technology-enabled companies that are poised for scaling. Verdane's investment strategy emphasizes digitalization and decarbonization trends, providing both capital and hands-on support to enhance market position and operational efficiency. Among their notable transactions, Verdane acquired Silva, a company that specializes in outdoor sports equipment, which is relevant to the mountain climbing gear sector. Additionally, they have made investments in other outdoor-related companies, such as Maskinklippet.se, which focuses on outdoor products. These transactions highlight Verdane's commitment to the outdoor and sports equipment market, making them a potential investor in mountain climbing gear.


10. Mercia Asset Management PLC

  • Website: mercia.co.uk
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Henley-In-Arden, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1982
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 41
  • LinkedIn: mercia-asset-management

Mercia Asset Management PLC is a venture capital firm based in Henley-In-Arden, England, specializing in providing venture capital, private equity, and debt financing to support the growth of UK businesses. Founded in 1982, Mercia focuses on ambitious startups and established companies, particularly in technology and innovation sectors. Among their notable transactions, they have invested in Alpkit, which raised $266,471 in debt financing in December 2017, a company that produces outdoor gear suitable for mountain climbing. They also led a funding round for Heidi, an online direct-sell ski specialist, which raised £5.6 million in June 2024, indicating their engagement in the outdoor sports market. These investments highlight Mercia's commitment to supporting businesses that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, including those involved in mountain climbing and related activities.


11. Equistone Partners Europe


Equistone Partners Europe is a private equity investment firm based in London, specializing in management buyouts and growth capital for mid-market companies across Europe. Founded in 1979, the firm focuses on providing capital and strategic support to management teams, aiming for long-term growth and impressive returns for their investors. Notably, Equistone has made significant investments in the sports gear sector, including the acquisition of Sportsbikeshop Ltd., a leading online retailer of motorcycle gear, and POLO Motorrad, a prominent motorcycle clothing and accessories retailer in Germany. These transactions highlight Equistone's engagement in the broader sports and outdoor gear market, which may extend to mountain climbing gear in the future.


12. Mobeus


Mobeus Equity Partners is a private equity investment firm based in London, UK, founded in 2012. The firm specializes in equity investments in UK-based SMEs, partnering with management teams to provide funding for management buyouts and equity releases, facilitating growth and strategic development. Mobeus operates across various sectors, including business services and healthcare, but has also made significant investments in the outdoor gear industry. Notably, they acquired Equip Outdoor Technologies in October 2011 for approximately $7.17 million, a company that is directly involved in the mountain climbing gear market. Additionally, they have invested in Rohan Designs, which focuses on outdoor clothing, and Wetsuit Outlet, a retailer of technical clothing and equipment for water sports, indicating a broader interest in outdoor and adventure-related sectors. These transactions highlight Mobeus's capability and interest in supporting companies that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, including mountain climbers.


13. EQT Group

  • Website: eqtgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 30
  • LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a prominent investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, specializing in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Founded in 1994, EQT serves institutional investors by providing expertise in managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has made significant investments in the outdoor and sports equipment sector, including the acquisition of Lundhags skomakarna in December 2006, a company known for its high-quality outdoor gear, which is relevant to mountain climbing. Furthermore, EQT's acquisition of a majority stake in XXL Sport & Villmark in June 2010 highlights their commitment to the sports retail market, which encompasses a range of outdoor activities, including mountain climbing. These transactions reflect EQT's strategic interest in the outdoor gear industry, reinforcing their position as a relevant investor in this space.


14. Equip Outdoor Technologies


Equip Outdoor Technologies UK Ltd, founded in 1993 and based in Alfreton, England, is a corporate investor specializing in outdoor equipment manufacturing. The company focuses on high-performance apparel and gear designed for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes, emphasizing durability and sustainability. Equip has made notable acquisitions in the mountain climbing gear sector, including Rab Carrington in 2003 and Lowe Alpine in 2011, which further solidifies its position in the market. The acquisition of Lowe Alpine, in particular, involved a significant investment of £20 million and highlights Equip's strategic focus on expanding its portfolio in the outdoor gear industry. With a commitment to community engagement and sustainability, Equip Outdoor Technologies operates globally, catering to the needs of outdoor adventurers.


15. Amer Sports

  • Website: amersports.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland
  • Founded year: 1950
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: amer-sports

Amer Sports, Inc. is a prominent sporting goods manufacturer and retailer based in Helsinki, Finland, founded in 1950. The company offers a diverse range of products, including sporting equipment, footwear, and apparel through its well-known brands like Salomon and Wilson. Notably, Amer Sports has made strategic acquisitions to bolster its presence in the outdoor sports market. In 2005, they acquired Salomon, which specializes in action and outdoor sports gear, including mountain climbing equipment. In 2017, Amer Sports further expanded its portfolio by acquiring Armada Skis, integrating it into their Winter Sports Equipment business unit. These acquisitions demonstrate Amer Sports' commitment to serving athletes and outdoor enthusiasts globally, providing high-quality gear designed to enhance performance and enjoyment in various sports, including mountain climbing.


16. Permira

  • Website: permira.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: permira

Permira is a London-based private equity investment firm founded in 1985, specializing in private equity and credit solutions. The firm partners with management teams and entrepreneurs to drive growth and create long-term value across various sectors, including technology, consumer, healthcare, and services. Notably, Permira led a significant investment in AllTrails, raising $150 million to accelerate product development and international expansion, which is pertinent to outdoor enthusiasts and mountain climbing. Additionally, they participated in funding for Zwift, an online fitness platform that is expanding into hardware, potentially relevant to fitness and outdoor activities. However, their other transactions, such as those involving PrivateSportShop and Vacanceselect, do not directly connect to mountain climbing gear, indicating a broader investment strategy rather than a specific focus on this niche.



Mountain Climbing Gear Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
CrowdcubeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020103
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
Frasers GroupLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+198220
JD SportsUnited Kingdom (UK)10001+19811
LdcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200198115
3i Group plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019453
Kima VenturesParis, Île-De-France, France1-10201050
Altor Equity PartnersStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden51-20020036
VerdaneOslo, Oslo, Norway51-20019857
Mercia Asset Management PLCHenley-In-Arden, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200198241
Equistone Partners EuropeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20019791
MobeusLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-5020120
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
Equip Outdoor TechnologiesAlfreton, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019930
Amer SportsHelsinki, Uusimaa, Finland10001+19500
PermiraLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)501-100019858


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