Who Owns Umbro?

In today’s rapidly evolving sportswear market, several iconic brands have undergone changes in ownership. Umbro, a prestigious brand with a rich history in producing football kits and other sportswear, is a subject of curiosity for many. Unveiling ownership details can enhance brand loyalty and influence purchasing decisions, making this topic significant for consumers and industry specialists alike.

Essential Highlights

• Umbro is currently owned by Iconix Brand Group, which specializes in acquiring and licensing consumer brands.
• This acquisition followed a series of ownership changes, with significant past ownership by Nike.
• Understanding the ownership of Umbro offers insights into brand strategies and the global sportswear market landscape.

Table of Contents

• History of Umbro
• The Nike Era
• Current Ownership by Iconix Brand Group
• Impact of Ownership Changes
• FAQ

History of Umbro

Founded in 1924 in Wilmslow, Cheshire, Umbro has been a cornerstone of sportswear, especially in football apparel. Known for its iconic double diamond logo, Umbro’s journey mirrors the evolution of sports clothing over the decades.

• Initially focused on football kits, Umbro expanded to various sportswear.
• Gained worldwide recognition in the 1950s with kits for the England national team.
• Became synonymous with major football tournaments, supplying kits to prestigious clubs and national teams.

The Nike Era

In 2007, Nike acquired Umbro, a decision that was aimed at strengthening Nike’s presence in the football sector. This era brought both challenges and opportunities:

• Nike sought to leverage Umbro’s heritage while introducing contemporary designs.
• However, sales did not meet expectations, leading to a strategic re-evaluation.
• In 2012, Nike reviewed its brand portfolio, which resulted in selling Umbro to focus resources on its core brands.

Current Ownership by Iconix Brand Group

Since 2012, Umbro has been owned by Iconix Brand Group, an enterprise recognized for its expertise in brand licensing.

• Iconix’s acquisition strategy focuses on enhancing brand reach through strategic partnerships and licensing deals across the globe.
• Umbro’s presence has expanded into broader markets and product lines under Iconix, continuing to cater to football enthusiasts.

Impact of Ownership Changes

Ownership changes have significantly shaped Umbro’s market presence and brand strategies.

• Under Nike, there was a push towards modernization, although with mixed results.
• Iconix emphasizes brand authenticity, maintaining Umbro’s football heritage while exploring new market avenues.
• Understanding these changes helps consumers align their purchase choices with brand values they support.

FAQ

Who currently owns Umbro?
Umbro is owned by Iconix Brand Group, an enterprise that specializes in acquiring and licensing consumer brands.

When did Nike sell Umbro?
Nike sold Umbro in 2012 to Iconix Brand Group.

Why did Nike sell Umbro?
Nike decided to sell Umbro as part of a strategic shift to focus on the core Nike brand and enhance profitability.

What does Iconix Brand Group do with Umbro?
Iconix specializes in brand management and expands Umbro’s market through strategic licensing partnerships.

Has Umbro’s product quality changed with ownership shifts?
While some consumers notice varied product lines, Umbro generally maintains high quality synonymous with its heritage.

For further information on who currently owns other renowned brands, you may visit the Who Owns website.

Conclusion

Understanding Umbro’s ownership offers insights into its strategic direction and market dynamics. From its storied past to its current ownership, Umbro’s journey reveals the complexities of brand management in the global sportswear industry. As Umbro continues to grow under Iconix, the brand remains a vital part of sports culture worldwide.