Top 10 UK Sportswear Manufacturers
The UK has a wide variety of sportswear manufacturers, each specializing in different types of activewear, from custom designs to eco-friendly options. Below is a closer look at the top UK sportswear manufacturers:
Umbro
Umbro is a well-known British sportswear brand, founded in 1920 by Harold C. and Wallace Humphreys as Humphreys Brothers. The company was renamed Umbro in 1924 and quickly became a major name in soccer apparel.
Company Overview
- Headquarters: Cheadle, Greater Manchester, UK
- Revenue: $358.9 million in 2024
- Employees: About 343 employees
- Ownership: Part of the American Iconix Brand Group since 2012
Products and Focus
Umbro focuses on soccer products, including uniforms, shoes, equipment, and casual wear inspired by soccer. While it no longer operates its own factories, it sources products from independent manufacturers in China, Vietnam, and Thailand. The company mainly designs and licenses training and game uniforms for top soccer teams and national teams, such as England, Sweden, Norway, and the Republic of Ireland.
Global Reach and Partnerships
Umbro sells products in 90 countries through 47 licensees, ensuring a wide global reach. Over the years, it has partnered with prominent soccer teams like Manchester City, Sheffield Wednesday, and Olympique Lyonnais. It also held sponsorship rights with the English Football Association until 2010.
Historical Milestones
- U.S. Market Entry: Entered the U.S. market in 1976, expanding globally.
- Acquisition: Acquired Stone Manufacturing in 1992.
- Stock Exchange: Listed on the London Stock Exchange in 2004.
Umbro continues to be a key player in soccer apparel, creating innovative products for teams and soccer fans worldwide.
BERUNWEAR
Berunwear is a Global sportswear manufacturer with over 15 years of experience in customizing sportswear. They specialize in team uniforms, cycling wear, running apparel, and event clothes, offering high-quality products to meet the needs of athletes and businesses.
Manufacturing Capabilities
- In-house Factory & Collaborations: Berunwear owns a factory and works with 10 experienced factories to produce a wide range of sportswear, including sublimated jerseys, 3D digital printed clothing, and embroidery.
- Production Scale: Their factory covers 10,000 square meters and has 115 workers, producing over 100,000 pieces of sportswear monthly.
Customization & Design
- Professional Design Services: Berunwear offers free design services, with a dedicated team of 10 designers and sales personnel fluent in English. They provide customized designs and create fitting samples before starting bulk production.
- Private Label Services: Clients can fully customize labels, tags, logos, and packaging.
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)
- Berunwear accepts minimum orders of just 10 pieces, making it ideal for small businesses and startups needing custom sportswear.
Quality Control & Assurance
- Berunwear has a strong quality control system, checking each garment at multiple production stages to ensure they meet high standards and are delivered on time.
Global Reach & Logistics
- International Shipping: With experience shipping to regions like the USA, Canada, Australia, UK, and Europe, Berunwear ensures all custom sportswear meets the legal requirements of each country.
- 24/7 Customer Support: They offer round-the-clock online chat support and personalized service, including video calls if needed.
Production Capacity
- Berunwear can produce up to 7,000 garments per week, ensuring they can handle both large and small orders efficiently.
Berunwear’s reputation for high-quality products, customization, and reliable service has earned praise from clients like Walker McCrary and Babylon Sportswear.
Slazenger
Slazenger, founded in 1881 by Ralph and Albert Slazenger in London, is one of the oldest and most recognizable sportswear brands in the UK. The company started as a small manufacturer of equipment and has grown into a global brand specializing in sports apparel and equipment. Initially, Slazenger produced cricket bats and tennis balls, but today its product range includes hockey sticks, golf clubs, squash gear, and even yoga and fitness apparel.
Innovations and Contributions
Slazenger is known for using high-quality materials. In 1935, the company introduced the world’s first fluorescent tennis ball, changing the sport forever. In the 1960s, Slazenger also created the synthetic leather football, showcasing its focus on innovation. This commitment to advancing sports equipment has earned the brand a reputation for producing high-performance products.
Key Partnerships and Endorsements
Slazenger has been the official supplier of Wimbledon tennis balls since 1902, making it the longest-running partnership in sports history. Over the years, the brand has sponsored legendary athletes such as Fred Perry, Jimmy Connors, Billie Jean King, and John McEnroe. Slazenger also supplied equipment for the British hockey team and played a key role in major events like the 1908 and 1948 Olympic Games.
Ownership History
The Slazenger family owned the company until 1959, when it was acquired by Dunlop Rubber. In 1985, it became part of BTR plc, and since 2004, it has been owned by Frasers Group (formerly Sports Direct). Today, Slazenger sells its products in over 100 countries and continues to lead in the world of sportswear and equipment.
Gymshark
Founded in 2012 by Ben Francis and Lewis Morgan in Solihull, England, Gymshark has quickly become one of the leading names in the UK sportswear industry. The brand specializes in gym and activewear and is known for its high-quality, stylish products designed for fitness enthusiasts worldwide.
Key Milestones and Achievements
- Valuation: In 2020, Gymshark reached a major milestone when it was valued at over £1 billion after General Atlantic, a US private equity firm, bought a 21% stake[2].
- Revenue Growth: Starting with just £500 in sales per day in its first year, Gymshark experienced rapid growth, reaching £250,000 in revenue. This success led the founders to drop out of university and focus on the business full-time. By 2018, sales hit £100 million, and by 2021, it reached £437.6 million, a 68% increase from the previous year. The company continued to show strong growth with £556.2 million in revenue in 2023, reflecting a 15% increase from the previous year[2][3].
- Employee Growth: Gymshark now employs around 1,800 people globally, with offices in Solihull, UK, and Denver, Colorado[3][5].
Products and Market Reach
Gymshark produces a wide range of activewear for both men and women, including workout vests, hoodies, t-shirts, and leggings. The brand is particularly popular with women, with about two-thirds of its sales directed to female customers by 2020[2][3]. Gymshark operates mainly through online platforms, selling products in 180 countries through websites in 13 languages, making it a truly global brand[2][3].
Social Media Influence
With over 22 million followers on social media, Gymshark has built a strong community of fitness enthusiasts. This online presence has played a key role in the brand’s growth, allowing customers from hundreds of countries to engage with the brand across various platforms[1][5].
Recent Innovations
Gymshark has also led the way in inclusivity and innovation. In August 2023, the company launched an athletic hijab for Muslim women, expanding its product range. Additionally, the brand released an online fitness app in 2019, offering both free and premium plans to help users reach their fitness goals[2].
Physical Retail Expansion
While Gymshark has mainly operated online, it opened its first permanent retail store on London’s Regent Street in 2022, following a successful pop-up store in Covent Garden in 2020. This move marks a significant step in the brand’s expansion into physical retail[2].
Sweaty Betty
Sweaty Betty, founded in 1998 by Tamara and Simon Hill-Norton in London’s Notting Hill, is a leading UK sportswear brand known for stylish and functional activewear. Initially created to encourage women to live active lives, Sweaty Betty has built a strong market position by offering products that combine both style and performance.
Global Expansion
Since its founding, Sweaty Betty has expanded rapidly. By 2003, the brand had five boutiques. By 2016, it had over 40 boutiques in the UK, six in the US, and several department store concessions. As of May 2022, Sweaty Betty operates 47 boutiques in the UK, 14 department store concessions in the UK, and 49 in the US, along with a growing presence in Canada, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, and Singapore.
Recognized Quality and Innovation
Sweaty Betty is known for its high-quality, technical activewear, especially its innovative Zero Gravity leggings, which are famous for their ‘bum-sculpting’ effect. The brand has earned many awards, including “Sports Retailer of the Year” from the Sports Industries Federation in 2001 and an award for having the “Healthiest Employees” in 2015.
Sustainability and Community
Sweaty Betty is committed to empowering women through fitness and promotes work-life balance and sustainability. The brand uses responsibly sourced materials and even incorporates recycled bottles into its products. Sweaty Betty has also been recognized for its positive impact on the community, focusing on inclusivity and wellness.
Ownership and Market Reach
In August 2021, Sweaty Betty was acquired by Wolverine Worldwide for £300 million, which further boosted its global presence. The brand’s products are available online and in physical stores, with notable department store concessions in Harrods and Bloomingdale’s.
Regatta Great Outdoors
Regatta Great Outdoors, founded in 1981 by Lionel Black, has become a leader in affordable and high-quality outdoor clothing and gear. The company focuses on performance and practicality, offering products for a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking to cycling.
Product Range and Key Offerings
Regatta offers a variety of outdoor clothing, including waterproof and water-repellent jackets, fleeces, trousers, softshells, and footwear. The products are known for their durability and functionality, making them suitable for different weather conditions.
- Jackets: Regatta offers jackets like the Matt, Hesper, Dover, Thronridge, and Icebound.
- Clothing: The company provides outdoor apparel for men, women, and children, with sizes ranging from Small to 6XL for men, 8 to 26 for women, and 3–4 years to 34″ for children.
In addition to its core outdoor clothing line, Regatta also owns other well-known brands, including Dare2b, Craghoppers, and Regatta Professional.
Additional Brands Under the Regatta Group
- Dare2b: Specializes in performance outdoor apparel for activities such as skiing and cycling. Dare2b is available in over 65 countries.
- Craghoppers: Known for travel and adventure clothing, including the NosiLife collection, which protects against biting insects.
- Regatta Professional: Provides re-brandable workwear solutions and is distributed in over 54 countries.
Global Reach and Recognition
Regatta operates in 55 countries, with offices in Europe and Asia. The company’s headquarters are located in Trafford Park, Manchester, and it has a global distribution warehouse in Ellesmere Port. Regatta’s international growth earned the Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade in 2012 and 2013.
Commitment to Sustainability and Community
Regatta is committed to sustainability and charitable efforts. The company supports various causes and works to reduce its environmental impact, showing its dedication to both the outdoor industry and the broader community.
Recent Partnerships
Recently, Regatta partnered with Marks & Spencer to feature over 150 Regatta clothing and footwear styles on M&S.com. The brand has also worked with personalities like Giovanna Fletcher and Orla Kiely, broadening its appeal and reaching more customers.
Regatta’s focus on innovation, quality, and sustainability has made it a key player in the outdoor apparel market.
Chadwick Textiles Limited (Chadwick Teamwear)
Chadwick Textiles Limited, also known as Chadwick Teamwear, was established in 1967 in the UK and has built a strong legacy in the garment and textile manufacturing industries. With over 50 years of experience, Chadwick is recognized as a premium supplier of sportswear.
Product Range and Quality
Chadwick Teamwear specializes in high-quality, non-branded team and training wear for various sports. Their product range includes:
- Team sport hoodies
- Jackets
- Technical t-shirts
- Training pants and leggings
- Midlayers
These products are durable and comfortable, designed to withstand heavy use. All items undergo quality checks to ensure they meet high standards.
Customization and Market Presence
One standout feature of Chadwick Teamwear is its ability to customize products with your own branding, making it a popular choice for sports teams, schools, and clubs.
The company has a strong market presence in the UK and the Far East, with long-term relationships with numerous resellers and brands. This broad presence reflects Chadwick’s reputation for offering high-quality sportswear.
Innovation and Reputation
Chadwick Teamwear is known for its innovation and commitment to quality. With over five decades of experience, the company remains a trusted name in the sportswear industry, offering products that match branded alternatives in both quality and reliability.
Magz Group
Magz Group, founded in 1990, is a well-known sportswear manufacturer based in the UK. It specializes in custom sportswear and offers a variety of products for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Custom Sportswear Production
Magz Group is recognized for its wide range of custom sportswear, including: – Tracksuits – Shorts – Skirts – Gym accessories
The company has built a strong reputation for providing high-quality, customizable sportswear for various sports and personal preferences.
Pruzan
Pruzan is a UK-based sportswear brand founded on December 22, 2021, and started its operations in 2022. The brand was created by two female athletes from London and Los Angeles, with a focus on stylish, high-performance wear for long-distance runners.
Specialization and Products
Pruzan specializes in performance wear for runners. The brand offers a variety of products, including:
- Mesh singlets
- Running leggings
- Sports bras
- Running shorts, including the popular Curved Running Shorts
- T-shirts
The Curved Running Shorts are designed with the female form in mind, featuring discreet pockets and a pull-cord waistband for convenience during long runs.
Sustainability and Materials
Pruzan focuses on sustainability in its designs. The products are made from 100% recycled polyester and elastane, which are eco-friendly, lightweight, quick-drying, and durable. The brand aims to reduce waste and uses recycled materials in its production.
Design and Fit
Pruzan’s sportswear is designed to be both flattering and functional. For example, their long-sleeve tops taper at the waist and crop at the top of the hips, offering style and comfort.
Community Engagement
Pruzan also builds a strong community through its weekly Run Club for London locals. This initiative shows the brand’s commitment to engaging with its customers beyond selling products, promoting an active lifestyle and a sense of camaraderie among runners.
Reebok
Reebok, founded in 1958 in the UK, is now one of the most recognized sportswear brands worldwide. Originally a subsidiary of J.W. Foster and Sons, it became part of Authentic Brands Group in 2021, after being sold by Adidas for $2.5 billion.
Product Range
Reebok offers a variety of sportswear for fitness, running, and CrossFit. It is especially known for its iconic Classic shoes and a wide selection of athletic apparel and footwear for various sports and fitness activities.
Brand Awareness and Usage in the UK
- Brand Awareness: 93% of sportswear users in the UK are familiar with Reebok.
- Usage Share: 23% of UK sportswear users currently choose Reebok products.
- Customer Loyalty: About 16% of users are likely to repurchase Reebok, showing a 70% loyalty rate among its customers.
Global Presence
Reebok operates in more than 80 countries and has around 400 freestanding stores, establishing its place as a major player in the global sportswear market.
Recent Partnerships
Reebok has formed key partnerships, such as its collaboration with Source Sport Limited to produce and distribute soccer and basketball team training apparel in the UK and Ireland.
Exclusive Contracts
Reebok holds an exclusive apparel license for the National Football League (NFL) since 2002, a deal worth up to $250 million in royalties for the NFL.
New Balance
New Balance is a well-known athletic brand, with a strong presence in the UK market. The brand is famous for its high-quality footwear, but it also offers a variety of sportswear, including t-shirts, hoodies, leggings, and other activewear.
Product Range
- Footwear: New Balance is best known for its durable and performance-focused shoes, which are popular with both athletes and casual users.
- Sportswear: Besides footwear, New Balance makes a wide range of athletic apparel, designed for comfort and performance. This includes functional t-shirts, hoodies, and leggings.
Brand Awareness
New Balance has strong global recognition, but in the UK, it trails behind major competitors like Nike, Adidas, and Puma. Still, it remains a trusted brand for those looking for quality and innovation in sportswear.
Manufacturing and Distribution
Although New Balance doesn’t have major manufacturing facilities in the UK, it has a solid distribution and retail network in the country. This helps the brand meet UK consumer demand, offering a wide range of products through stores and online.
Quality and Innovation
New Balance focuses on quality and innovation, continually improving its products. The brand uses advanced materials and production techniques to ensure both comfort and performance, appealing to athletes and casual wearers alike.
Sustainability Efforts
New Balance is committed to sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices in its production process. This reflects the brand’s efforts to meet growing consumer demand for greener products in the sportswear industry.
Most Recognized Sportswear Brands in the UK
The UK sportswear market is led by a few major brands that are globally recognized. Nike and Adidas are the most popular, with 97% brand awareness among internet users in the UK. These two brands also dominate search popularity, with Nike receiving an average of 1.77 million searches per month, making it the top brand. Adidas follows with 902,000 monthly searches.
Other Top Sportswear Brands
In addition to Nike and Adidas, other brands are well-known in the UK:
- Puma ranks third with 95% brand awareness. It offers a wide range of performance sportswear that appeals to both athletes and casual wearers.
- Reebok and Fila are also popular, though specific awareness data is not widely available.
Newer brands are also gaining ground, such as Gymshark, a British sportswear label. From 2016 to 2020, Gymshark’s popularity surged by 3,700%, making it the third most searched sportswear brand in the UK, with 766,000 monthly searches.
Other Recognized UK Brands
- Sweaty Betty: Known for high-quality, functional activewear, including the popular “bum-sculpting” leggings.
- Regatta Great Outdoors: Specializes in outdoor clothing and is popular among outdoor enthusiasts.
- Pruzan: A newer brand, founded in 2022, offering stylish performance wear for runners.
These brands reflect the variety of sportswear available in the UK, meeting different needs for both active and casual wear.