Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨

The sports apparel industry in Europe is a dynamic sector that includes a wide array of companies focusing on athletic wear, leisure clothing, and accessories. Major players in this field range from iconic sports brands to emerging boutique labels, offering products designed for performance, style, and sustainability. Recent trends showcase a growing emphasis on eco-friendly materials, wellness, and technology integration in apparel. As demand for athleisure and fitness-related garments rises, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ industry is poised for robust growth, driven by innovations in design and consumer preferences shifting towards healthier lifestyles.

The list includes various types of investors, from corporate giants to venture capital firms, all actively supporting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel sector. Headquartered across Europe, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se investors range in size from large multinationals to smaller, specialized firms. Founded from 1945 to 2011, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y've collectively engaged in numerous investment deals in 2024 alone, signaling a robust market interest. Investors like JD Sports and Crowdcube are key contributors, reflecting a mixed strategy of direct control and stakeholder partnerships in fueling Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ industry's advancements.

Top 18 Sports Apparel Investors in Europe

1. Crowdcube

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

Crowdcube is a crowdfunding platform based in London, England, founded in 2010. It enables businesses, particularly startups and SMEs, to raise capital through equity investments by connecting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m with potential investors. The platform emphasizes diversity and inclusion within its workforce while providing investment management services. Notably, Crowdcube has been involved in several transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel sector, including Manors Golf, which raised $750,560 in December 2023, and Bunker Mentality, which raised $398,561 in December 2021. Additionally, Crowdcube facilitated funding for Oneskee and Alpkit, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ latter being a specialist retailer in outdoor clothing and equipment, which raised £2.25 million in October 2022. These transactions highlight Crowdcube's active role in supporting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ growth of companies within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry.

2. Frasers Group

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

Frasers Group plc is a prominent retail company based in London, England, founded in 1982. It operates various brands in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports and fashion sectors, including Sports Direct, Jack Wills, and Everlast Fitness Club. The company offers a diverse range of products, including clothing, footwear, and sporting goods, catering to consumers seeking retail options and fitness solutions. Notably, Frasers Group has made several key acquisitions in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry, such as Umbro in 2005, Everlast Worldwide in 2007, and JD Sports - Fashion brands in 2022. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of DW Sports in 2020 furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r solidified its presence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ fitness and sports market. These strategic moves highlight Frasers Group's commitment to expanding its footprint in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel sector.

3. JD Sports

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

JD Sports is a corporate investor based in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ United Kingdom, founded in 1981. The company specializes in retailing sports and lifestyle apparel and footwear, offering a diverse range of products for men, women, and children. JD Sports operates both online and through physical stores, providing a comprehensive shopping experience. Notably, JD Sports has made several strategic acquisitions to strengÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨n its position in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel market. In 2018, it acquired Finish Line, an American sportswear retailer, for $558 million, significantly enhancing its presence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ US market. In 2024, JD Sports announced its acquisition of Hibbett Sports for $1.1 billion, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r increasing its North American sales share. Additionally, JD Sports has acquired stakes in oÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r sports-related companies, such as Kukri Sports Ltd. and Canterbury, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to expanding its influence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel sector.

4. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 198
• LinkedIn:

Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a public entity and financial institution based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, founded in 2015. It supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through a range of services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. Bpifrance aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation through coaching and partnerships, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has participated in significant transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel sector, including a funding round for Circle Sportswear, a Paris-based startup, and a substantial investment in i-Run, a sports shoe and apparel retailer. These transactions highlight Bpifrance's active engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry, reinforcing its role as a key investor in this space.

5. Lvmh

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 11
• LinkedIn:

LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE is a prominent luxury goods manufacturer and retailer based in Paris, France. Founded in 1987, LVMH offers a diverse range of high-quality products across various sectors, including fashion, leaÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r goods, wines, spirits, perfumes, cosmetics, watches, and jewelry. Recently, LVMH has made significant moves in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel context, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Paris FC, a French football club, in collaboration with Red Bull, which aims to enhance Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ club's appeal and growth potential. FurÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨rmore, LVMH acquired a 60% stake in Off-White, a luxury streetwear label founded by Virgil Abloh, which is known for its influence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ fashion and sportswear sectors. These strategic investments highlight LVMH's commitment to expanding its footprint in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry while maintaining its luxury brand identity.

6. Index Ventures

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 67
• LinkedIn:

Index Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 1996, based in London, England. They focus on investing in innovative startups across various sectors, including technology and healthcare, while also showing interest in consumer brands. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y invested in Tracksmith, which raised $1.6 million in a seed round in July 2014, highlighting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry. This investment reflects Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir strategy of building long-term partnerships with founders and supporting businesses that align with Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir vision of innovation and growth. In addition to Tracksmith, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have participated in various funding rounds for oÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r companies, showcasing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir broad investment approach.

7. Venrex

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 11
• LinkedIn:

Venrex is a venture capital firm based in London, specializing in early-stage investments in technology-enabled businesses within consumer industries. Founded in 2002, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ firm provides funding and strategic support to help Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se businesses grow and succeed in competitive markets. Notably, Venrex has been involved in several transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel sector, including a significant investment in TALA, an activewear label that raised $5.7 million to support its international expansion and product inventory. Additionally, Venrex led a $10 million Series A funding round for Vollebak, a direct-to-consumer clothing company, and has invested in Jöttnar, which focuses on outdoor performance apparel. These transactions highlight Venrex's active role in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry, alongside Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir broader investment strategy.

8. Cvc

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Luxembourg
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 16
• LinkedIn:

CVC Capital Partners is a prominent private equity firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 2005. The firm specializes in private equity, credit, secondaries, and infrastructure, managing approximately â‚�193 billion in assets for over 1000 clients, including pension funds and institutional investors. CVC has a diverse portfolio, but it has made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel sector. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y acquired OXBOW, a brand known for its surf and lifestyle apparel, in 1996, and Pacific Brands, which includes several well-known apparel brands, in 2001. Additionally, CVC has invested in sports organizations such as Premiership Rugby and Six Nations Rugby, raising substantial funds to support Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se entities. This combination of investments highlights CVC's commitment to delivering sustainable value and growth in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry.

9. Kima Ventures

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 50
• LinkedIn:

Kima Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Paris, ÃŽle-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. Among Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir notable transactions, Kima Ventures has invested in Colizey, which raised $2,699,711 in a seed round in May 2020, focusing on sports equipment. They also participated in funding HARDLOOP, a French outdoor sports e-tailer that raised â‚�3 million in January 2022, and Barooders, a used-sporting-goods marketplace that secured â‚�2.2 million in funding in September 2022. These investments highlight Kima Ventures' active role in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel and equipment market, showcasing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir interest in supporting innovative companies within this sector.

10. Permira

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

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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Golden Goose for 1.28 billion euros, a brand known for its sneaker offerings, and a recent investment in K-Way, which focuses on outerwear. These transactions reflect Permira's commitment to enhancing brand presence and supporting growth in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel market.

11. Bgf

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 53
• LinkedIn:

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm based in London, UK, founded in 2011. The firm focuses on providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ UK and Ireland. BGF addresses Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ funding gap in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in several companies relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry, including Ruroc, which specializes in action sports protection gear, and Source BMX, a prominent BMX retailer. BGF's investment in Spoke, a men's online fashion startup, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ apparel sector. In 2021, BGF invested £5.7 million in Source BMX to enhance its e-commerce capabilities and expand internationally, while Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir £3 million investment in Ruroc in 2018 was aimed at supporting product development and market expansion. These transactions illustrate BGF's active role in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel and related industries.

12. Almi

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 7
• LinkedIn:

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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ growth and competitiveness of Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se businesses through tailored financial solutions and guidance. Notably, Almi has participated in several transactions relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry, including a $2M investment in Elevenate, a Swedish fashion manufacturer and retailer focused on e-commerce and seasonal collections. Additionally, Almi invested in Tini Garments, which raised $230,145 in a seed round. These investments highlight Almi's engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel sector, despite Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir broader focus on various industries.

13. Verdane

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

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. Notably, Verdane has been involved in several transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel context, including investments in MM Sports, a company that raised funds in 2014, and Outnorth, which raised funds in 2010. Additionally, Verdane's acquisition of Silva, a provider of niche outdoor sports equipment, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r emphasizes Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports sector. These transactions highlight Verdane's commitment to supporting companies that operate within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel and equipment industry.

14. Apax

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 8
• LinkedIn:

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, serving institutional investors seeking to enhance Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir capital through strategic investments in private equity funds. Notably, Apax has made significant acquisitions in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel sector, including Spyder Active Sports in 2004, Tommy Hilfiger in 2005 for $1.6 billion, and Cole Haan LLC from NIKE, Inc. in 2012 for $570 million. These transactions highlight Apax's active role in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry, alongside its broader investment strategy.

15. 3i Group plc

• Website:
• 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 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel sector, including a substantial minority stake in GO Outdoors for £28 million, aimed at supporting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ company's growth plans in outdoor clothing and equipment. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir investment in Halti Oy, a brand recognized for its outdoor apparel, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry. Their acquisition of Rohan Designs, known for outdoor clothing, also reflects Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in this market.

16. Ldc

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

Lloyds Development Capital (LDC) is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. As part of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. They focus on fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success through investment and advisory services. LDC has been involved in several notable transactions in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel context, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Mountain Warehouse, a significant player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor clothing market, and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ investment in LeMieux, which specializes in equestrian apparel. These transactions highlight LDC's commitment to supporting growth in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry, alongside Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir broader investment strategy.

17. 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 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of CCM Hockey, a leading manufacturer of hockey equipment with a substantial market share, and Rossignol, a well-known brand in winter sports apparel and equipment. Additionally, Altor's involvement with XXL Sport & Villmark, a prominent sports retail chain, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports sector. Their investment strategy emphasizes tailored solutions and digital transformation, positioning Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m as a key player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel market.

18. Acton Capital

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn:

Acton Capital is a Munich-based venture capital firm founded in 1999, specializing in investing in startups at Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ Series A stage and beyond. They focus on providing financial backing and strategic guidance to mission-driven teams across various sectors, including technology and eco-friendly consumer goods. Notably, Acton Capital has participated in significant transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry, such as Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir involvement in Knix Wear, a company that raised multiple funding rounds to expand its activewear offerings. They also invested in Koio, a luxury sneaker brand, which aligns with Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel market. Acton Capital's diverse portfolio and strategic approach to growth make Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a valuable partner for companies in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel sector.

Sports Apparel Insights: Key Investors in Europe

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	2010	3
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	10001+	1982	20
	United Kingdom (UK)	10001+	1981	1
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	1-10	2015	198
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	10001+	1987	11
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	1996	67
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	11-50	2002	11
	Luxembourg	1001-5000	2005	16
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	1-10	2010	50
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	501-1000	1985	8
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	2011	53
	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	201-500	1994	7
	Oslo, Oslo, Norway	51-200	1985	7
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	201-500	1981	8
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	201-500	1945	3
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	1981	15
Altor Equity Partners	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	51-200	2003	6
	Munich, Bavaria, Germany	11-50	1999	3

Want to find more investors focusing on Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports apparel industry?

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• ...and much more!