Jack Wills
Frasers Group · United Kingdom
Jack Wills is a British clothing brand founded in Salcombe, Devon, in 1999 by Peter Williams and Robert Shaw. After entering administration in August 2019 it was bought by Sports Direct for about £12.8 million, and its parent company is now Frasers Group.
| Founded | 1999 |
|---|---|
| Founders | Peter Williams and Robert Shaw |
| Parent company | Frasers Group (since 2019) |
| Headquarters | London, United Kingdom |
| Segment | Premium and contemporary |
| Website | jackwills.com |
What is Jack Wills?
Jack Wills is a British fashion brand selling men's and women's clothing, accessories and homeware, from tweed jackets and blazers to hoodies and polo shirts. It is known for its pheasant logo and was originally marketed as University Outfitters, relying largely on word of mouth.
History
Peter Williams and Robert Shaw founded the brand in 1999 in Salcombe, Devon, opening the first store at 22 Fore Street with £40,000. It is named after one of the co-founders' grandparents. Wikipedia reports that in 2011 the company was valued at £140 million. Williams stepped aside as chief executive in 2013, when Wendy Becker was appointed, and returned in 2015 after her departure. In October 2016 Williams and the private equity firm BlueGem became joint owners after Inflexion left.
Administration and ownership
The company entered administration in August 2019 with debts of £100 million, and Sports Direct acquired it for about £12.8 million. Wikipedia lists its parent as Frasers Group, the renamed Sports Direct group. The sister brand Aubin & Wills ran from 2008 to 2013.
Business model and distribution
At its peak, in September 2016, Jack Wills had about 70 UK stores. By 2023 its website listed 31 UK stores, 11 of them outlets. Since 2020 it has operated mainly online, with a handful of UK outlet stores and concessions in Frasers Group stores, and it also sells through wholesale partners. The original Salcombe flagship did not reopen in November 2024 after a closing-down sale. Wikipedia gives 135 employees in 2025.
Why it matters
Jack Wills is a clear example of a university-focused UK premium brand that expanded quickly, collapsed under debt and was folded into a larger retail group as a multi-channel brand.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Jack Wills?
Jack Wills belongs to Frasers Group, formerly Sports Direct, which bought it out of administration in August 2019 for about £12.8 million.
Where is Jack Wills from?
Jack Wills is a British brand founded in Salcombe, Devon, in 1999. It is now headquartered in London.