Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨

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 oÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel sector across Europe. The group includes corporate, venture capital, and private equity firms headquartered mainly in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ UK, France, and Sweden, with diverse company sizes from small firms to large corporations. Founded between 1945 and 2015, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se investors collectively made over 397 deals in 2024 alone, showcasing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to nurturing growth within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn:

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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel industry, supporting companies that align with outdoor and adventure lifestyles.

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 corporate investor based in London, England, founded in 1982. The company operates various brands in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel market, alongside its broader retail operations. The company also engages in fitness services through its Everlast Fitness Club chain, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r diversifying its offerings to consumers seeking both outdoor and fitness-related products.

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 retail company specializing in sports and lifestyle apparel and footwear, founded in 1981 and based in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 strengÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨n its position in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel market, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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:
• 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, 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel sector, reinforcing its relevance as an investor in this field.

5. 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 outdoor apparel sector, including a £28 million minority stake in GO Outdoors, which plans to expand its store presence significantly. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y acquired Rohan Designs, a brand recognized for its outdoor clothing, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r solidifying Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir involvement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel market. Their investment in Halti Oy, a company that also operates in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel space, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r emphasizes Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to this industry.

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. 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir notable transactions, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y invested in Tracksmith, which raised $1.6 million in a seed round in July 2014, indicating Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir involvement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel industry. This investment highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir willingness to support companies in this sector, alongside Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir broader investment strategy.

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 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, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have invested in Amphibio, which focuses on outdoor gear, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r solidifying Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir presence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel sector. Venrex operates from its offices in London and New York, and has been active in supporting innovative brands in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel market.

8. 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 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor lifestyle market. These transactions demonstrate Permira's strategic focus on transforming businesses into market leaders within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor 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. Notably, Kima Ventures has invested in Hardloop, a French outdoor sports e-tailer that raised â‚�3 million in 2022 to enhance its services and focus on environmentally responsible products. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y invested in Barooders, a marketplace for used sporting goods, which raised â‚�2.2 million in 2022. These transactions highlight Kima Ventures' active involvement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel and sporting goods industry, showcasing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to supporting companies that align with outdoor and adventure Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨mes.

10. 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, England, 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 Ruroc, a UK-based action sports protection brand, providing £3m to support Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r demonstrating Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir interest in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel sector.

11. 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. In Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel context, Verdane has made significant investments, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor sector. These transactions reflect Verdane's commitment to supporting and growing companies within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel and equipment industry.

12. 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 (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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel sector, making Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a relevant investor in this category.

13. 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 founded in 2005, based in Luxembourg, managing approximately â‚�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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir notable transactions, CVC has acquired several companies relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel market, alongside Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir broader investment portfolio.

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. Notably, Apax has been involved in significant transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel context, such as Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Spyder Active Sports in 2004, which is known for its outdoor sports apparel. This acquisition highlights Apax's engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel market. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir investment strategy serves institutional investors seeking to enhance Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir capital through strategic investments in private equity funds, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r indicating Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir broad investment approach while still maintaining a foothold in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 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 outdoor apparel industry, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel market. These transactions highlight Altor's commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor sector and its strategy of investing in companies that align with Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir vision of sustainable growth and operational excellence.

16. Equistone Partners Europe

• Website:
• 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 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, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ firm aims to partner with management teams to provide capital and strategic support for long-term growth. Notably, Equistone has made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ apparel sector, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ apparel industry, particularly in segments that cater to outdoor and active lifestyles. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir acquisition of DefShop, a retailer focused on streetwear, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r demonstrates Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ broader apparel market, making Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a versatile player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ investment landscape.

17. EQT Group

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

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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel industry, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir involvement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sports retail sector, which encompasses outdoor apparel. These transactions reflect EQT's commitment to expanding its portfolio in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel market, making Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a relevant player in this industry.

18. Naxicap Partners

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn:

Naxicap Partners is a private equity investment firm based in Paris, ÃŽle-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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 oÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r funding rounds, such as Eleven Paris, which, while not strictly outdoor apparel, indicates Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir broader investment strategy in fashion and lifestyle brands. By providing financial resources and strategic support, Naxicap Partners helps businesses scale and enhance Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir market presence, including those in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel sector.

19. 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 by offering tailored financial solutions and guidance. Notably, Almi has participated in several transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ 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 Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel space. These investments highlight Almi's engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ outdoor apparel industry, alongside Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir broader focus on supporting SMEs across various sectors.

Outdoor 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
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	201-500	1945	3
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	1996	67
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	11-50	2002	11
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	501-1000	1985	8
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	1-10	2010	50
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	2011	53
	Oslo, Oslo, Norway	51-200	1985	7
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	1981	15
	Luxembourg	1001-5000	2005	16
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	201-500	1981	8
Altor Equity Partners	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	51-200	2003	6
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	1979	1
	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	1001-5000	1994	30
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	51-200	2005	0
	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	201-500	1994	7

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