Top 19 Outdoor Apparel Investors in Europe
Top 19 Outdoor Apparel Investors in Europe
The outdoor apparel industry in Europe caters to outdoor enthusiasts seeking high-quality clothing and gear designed for various outdoor activities. This sector includes companies focused on hiking, skiing, climbing, and other adventures, providing performance-driven products that prioritize functionality, durability, and style. With a growing awareness of sustainability, brands are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, using recycled materials and ethical production methods. The blend of innovation and tradition drives the market forward, with trends showing a shift toward outdoor lifestyle brands that resonate with both adventure seekers and urban consumers. Industry growth is spurred by rising participation in outdoor activities across Europe.
This list features 19 notable investors active in the outdoor apparel sector across Europe. The group includes corporate, venture capital, and private equity firms headquartered mainly in the UK, France, and Sweden, with diverse company sizes from small firms to large corporations. Founded between 1945 and 2015, these investors collectively made over 397 deals in 2024 alone, showcasing their commitment to nurturing growth within the outdoor apparel market. Their involvement reflects a mix of strategic investments aimed at expanding brand outreach and product innovation in an increasingly eco-conscious consumer landscape.
Top 19 Outdoor Apparel 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. Crowdcube 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 outdoor apparel sector, including Alpkit, a specialist retailer of outdoor clothing and equipment, which raised £2.25m in 2022. Additionally, Hopaal raised $774,459 in 2023, Meander Apparel raised $230,208 in July 2023, and Planks Clothing raised significant amounts in both 2019 and 2021. These investments highlight Crowdcube's active participation in the outdoor apparel industry, supporting companies that align with outdoor and adventure lifestyles.
2. 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 outdoor apparel space, including Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) in 2017, Field & Trek.Com Ltd in 2007, and Karrimor in 2004. These transactions highlight Frasers Group's commitment to expanding its portfolio in the outdoor apparel market, alongside its broader retail operations. The company also engages in fitness services through its Everlast Fitness Club chain, further diversifying its offerings to consumers seeking both outdoor and fitness-related products.
3. 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 retail company specializing in sports and lifestyle apparel and footwear, founded in 1981 and based in the United Kingdom. With over 10,000 employees, JD Sports operates both online and through physical stores, providing a comprehensive shopping experience. The company has made several strategic acquisitions to strengthen its position in the outdoor apparel market, including the acquisition of Blacks Outdoor in January 2012 for approximately $30.9 million, Go Outdoors in November 2016 for £112.3 million, and a controlling stake in Tiso Group in November 2013. These transactions reflect JD Sports' commitment to expanding its outdoor apparel offerings and enhancing its market presence in this sector.
4. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération
- Website: bpifrance.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
- Founded year: 2015
- Headcount: 1-10
- Number of deals in 2024: 198
- LinkedIn: bpifrance-french-tech-acc%c3%a9l%c3%a9ration
Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a public entity and financial institution based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. It supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through a variety of services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. Bpifrance aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation by providing coaching and partnerships to help businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in several transactions relevant to the outdoor apparel industry, including a $2,642,379 investment in Snowleader in 2015, a $2,500,000 investment in Satisfy in 2021, and participation in funding rounds for i-Run, a retailer focused on sports shoes and apparel. These investments highlight Bpifrance's active role in supporting companies within the outdoor apparel sector, reinforcing its relevance as an investor in this field.
5. 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 has made significant investments in the outdoor apparel sector, including a £28 million minority stake in GO Outdoors, which plans to expand its store presence significantly. Additionally, they acquired Rohan Designs, a brand recognized for its outdoor clothing, further solidifying their involvement in the outdoor apparel market. Their investment in Halti Oy, a company that also operates in the outdoor apparel space, further emphasizes their commitment to this industry.
6. Index Ventures
- Website: indexventures.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 1996
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 67
- LinkedIn: index-ventures
Index Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 1996, based in London, England. The firm invests in innovative startups across various sectors, including technology and healthcare, providing capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs. They focus on building long-term partnerships with founders to drive success. Among their notable transactions, they invested in Tracksmith, which raised $1.6 million in a seed round in July 2014, indicating their involvement in the outdoor apparel industry. This investment highlights their willingness to support companies in this sector, alongside their broader investment strategy.
7. Venrex
- Website: venrex.partners
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 2002
- Headcount: 11-50
- Number of deals in 2024: 11
- LinkedIn: venrex
Venrex is a venture capital firm based in London, specializing in early-stage investments in technology-enabled businesses within consumer industries. Founded in 2002, the firm provides funding and strategic support to help these businesses grow and succeed in competitive markets. Notably, Venrex has invested in outdoor apparel companies such as Jöttnar, which raised $1,584,600 in a seed round in October 2018, and Vollebak, a direct-to-consumer clothing company that closed a Series A round with around $10 million in funding in November 2021. Additionally, they have invested in Amphibio, which focuses on outdoor gear, further solidifying their presence in the outdoor apparel sector. Venrex operates from its offices in London and New York, and has been active in supporting innovative brands in the outdoor apparel market.
8. 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 has made significant investments in the outdoor apparel context, such as acquiring a significant minority stake in K-Way, a French outerwear brand, aimed at enhancing its brand presence and supporting international growth. Additionally, Permira's investment in AllTrails, which raised $150 million to accelerate product development and international expansion, highlights their commitment to the outdoor lifestyle market. These transactions demonstrate Permira's strategic focus on transforming businesses into market leaders within the outdoor apparel industry.
9. 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 venture capital firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage startups across various sectors, backing two startups per week with financial support and mentorship. Notably, Kima Ventures has invested in Hardloop, a French outdoor sports e-tailer that raised €3 million in 2022 to enhance its services and focus on environmentally responsible products. Additionally, they invested in Barooders, a marketplace for used sporting goods, which raised €2.2 million in 2022. These transactions highlight Kima Ventures' active involvement in the outdoor apparel and sporting goods industry, showcasing their commitment to supporting companies that align with outdoor and adventure themes.
10. Bgf
- Website: bgf.co.uk
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 2011
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 53
- LinkedIn: bgfinvestments
BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2011. The firm focuses on providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses in the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in Ruroc, a UK-based action sports protection brand, providing £3m to support the launch of new products and expansion efforts. Additionally, BGF invested in Rutland Cycling, a family-owned business that likely engages with outdoor cycling apparel and equipment, further demonstrating their interest in the outdoor apparel sector.
11. 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. Verdane provides capital and hands-on support to help businesses scale, with a focus on digitalization and decarbonization trends. In the outdoor apparel context, Verdane has made significant investments, including the acquisition of Silva, a company known for its niche outdoor sports equipment, and Maskinklippet.se, which aims to create a leading Nordic e-tailer in forestry, gardening, hunting, and outdoor products. Additionally, Verdane's investment in Outnorth further highlights their engagement in the outdoor sector. These transactions reflect Verdane's commitment to supporting and growing companies within the outdoor apparel and equipment industry.
12. 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 (Holdings) Limited (LDC) is a private equity firm based in London, England, specializing in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. Founded in 1981, LDC is part of Lloyds Banking Group and focuses on fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success. Notably, LDC has made significant investments in the outdoor apparel industry, including a 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. Additionally, LDC invested £22 million in Joules Clothing, a brand with a turnover of £90 million, to help expand its market presence. These transactions highlight LDC's active role in the outdoor apparel sector, making them a relevant investor in this category.
13. Cvc
- Website: cvc.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Luxembourg
- Founded year: 2005
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- Number of deals in 2024: 16
- LinkedIn: cvc-capital-partners
CVC Capital Partners is a prominent private equity firm founded in 2005, based in Luxembourg, managing approximately €193 billion in assets for over 1000 clients, including pension funds and institutional investors. The firm specializes in private equity, credit, secondaries, and infrastructure investments. Among their notable transactions, CVC has acquired several companies relevant to the outdoor apparel industry, including OXBOW, a brand known for its surf and outdoor clothing, and Pacific Brands, which includes various apparel brands. These acquisitions highlight CVC's strategic interest in the outdoor apparel market, alongside their broader investment portfolio.
14. Apax
- Website: apax.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 1981
- Headcount: 201-500
- Number of deals in 2024: 8
- LinkedIn: apax-partners
Apax Partners LLP is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. The firm specializes in managing investments across various sectors, including technology, internet/consumer, healthcare, and services. Apax collaborates with management teams of high-potential companies to drive growth and innovation. Notably, Apax has been involved in significant transactions within the outdoor apparel context, such as the acquisition of Spyder Active Sports in 2004, which is known for its outdoor sports apparel. This acquisition highlights Apax's engagement in the outdoor apparel market. Additionally, their investment strategy serves institutional investors seeking to enhance their capital through strategic investments in private equity funds, further indicating their broad investment approach while still maintaining a foothold in the outdoor apparel industry.
15. 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 for its partners. Altor has made significant investments in the outdoor apparel industry, including the acquisition of Rossignol, a prominent brand in outdoor sports apparel, and investments in XXL Sport & Villmark and Dale of Norway, both of which are key players in the outdoor apparel market. These transactions highlight Altor's commitment to the outdoor sector and its strategy of investing in companies that align with their vision of sustainable growth and operational excellence.
16. Equistone Partners Europe
- Website: equistonepe.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 1979
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 1
- LinkedIn: equistone-partners-europe-limited
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 aims to partner with management teams to provide capital and strategic support for long-term growth. Notably, Equistone has made significant investments in the apparel sector, including the acquisition of POLO Motorrad und Sportswear GmbH, a leading retailer of motorcycle clothing and accessories, and Sportsbikeshop Ltd., a market leader in motorcycle gear sales. These transactions highlight their commitment to the apparel industry, particularly in segments that cater to outdoor and active lifestyles. Additionally, their acquisition of DefShop, a retailer focused on streetwear, further demonstrates their engagement in the broader apparel market, making them a versatile player in the investment landscape.
17. 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 founded in 1994, specializing in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Based in Stockholm, Sweden, EQT serves institutional investors by managing diverse investment portfolios across various sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has made significant investments in the outdoor apparel industry, including the acquisition of Lundhags skomakarna in December 2006, which is recognized for its outdoor clothing and footwear. Additionally, EQT's acquisition of XXL Sport & Villmark in June 2010 highlights their involvement in the sports retail sector, which encompasses outdoor apparel. These transactions reflect EQT's commitment to expanding its portfolio in the outdoor apparel market, making them a relevant player in this industry.
18. Naxicap Partners
- Website: naxicap.fr
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
- Founded year: 2005
- Headcount: 51-200
- LinkedIn: naxicap-partners
Naxicap Partners is a private equity investment firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2005. The firm specializes in private equity and growth capital investments, focusing on mid-cap and small-cap companies across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and real estate. Notably, Naxicap Partners has made significant investments in the outdoor apparel industry, acquiring Bering and Segura on May 29, 2015. Bering is known for its motorcycle apparel, while Segura specializes in motorcycle clothing, both of which align with outdoor apparel. Additionally, Naxicap has been involved in other funding rounds, such as Eleven Paris, which, while not strictly outdoor apparel, indicates their broader investment strategy in fashion and lifestyle brands. By providing financial resources and strategic support, Naxicap Partners helps businesses scale and enhance their market presence, including those in the outdoor apparel sector.
19. Almi
- Website: almi.se
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Founded year: 1994
- Headcount: 201-500
- Number of deals in 2024: 7
- LinkedIn: almi-ab
Almi AB is a financial services company based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. It specializes in providing loans, risk capital, and business development support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sweden. Almi aims to enhance the growth and competitiveness of these businesses by offering tailored financial solutions and guidance. Notably, Almi has participated in several transactions within the outdoor apparel sector, including a $2M investment in Elevenate, a Swedish fashion manufacturer and retailer focused on outdoor clothing, and a seed round investment in Kittelfjall, which also operates in the outdoor apparel space. These investments highlight Almi's engagement in the outdoor apparel industry, alongside their broader focus on supporting SMEs across various sectors.
Outdoor Apparel Insights: Key Investors in Europe
| Investor | Headquarter | Size | Founded | Deals 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crowdcube | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 51-200 | 2010 | 3 |
| Frasers Group | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 10001+ | 1982 | 20 |
| JD Sports | United Kingdom (UK) | 10001+ | 1981 | 1 |
| Bpifrance French Tech Accélération | Paris, Île-De-France, France | 1-10 | 2015 | 198 |
| 3i Group plc | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 201-500 | 1945 | 3 |
| Index Ventures | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 51-200 | 1996 | 67 |
| Venrex | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 11-50 | 2002 | 11 |
| Permira | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 501-1000 | 1985 | 8 |
| Kima Ventures | Paris, Île-De-France, France | 1-10 | 2010 | 50 |
| Bgf | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 51-200 | 2011 | 53 |
| Verdane | Oslo, Oslo, Norway | 51-200 | 1985 | 7 |
| Ldc | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 51-200 | 1981 | 15 |
| Cvc | Luxembourg | 1001-5000 | 2005 | 16 |
| Apax | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 201-500 | 1981 | 8 |
| Altor Equity Partners | Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden | 51-200 | 2003 | 6 |
| Equistone Partners Europe | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 51-200 | 1979 | 1 |
| EQT Group | Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden | 1001-5000 | 1994 | 30 |
| Naxicap Partners | Paris, Île-De-France, France | 51-200 | 2005 | 0 |
| Almi | Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden | 201-500 | 1994 | 7 |
Want to find more investors focusing on the outdoor apparel industry?
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