Karrimor
Frasers Group · United Kingdom
Karrimor is a British outdoor brand that began in Lancashire making bicycle bags and was formally established in 1946. Owned by Frasers Group since 2004, it covers rucksacks, footwear, clothing and running products.
| Founded | 1946 |
|---|---|
| Origin | Lancashire, England |
| Founders | Charles and Mary Parsons, Grace Davies |
| Owner | Frasers Group (since 2004) |
| Website | karrimor.com |
What is Karrimor?
Karrimor is an outdoor brand from Lancashire, England, that grew from cycle bags into one of the best known British names in rucksacks and outdoor equipment.
History
Its story began in the 1940s with bicycle shop owner Charles Parsons, his wife Mary Parsons and her sister Grace Davies, who made bags for his shop. The Karrimor Bag Company was formed in 1946, and the business moved into backpacks in 1958. Their son Mike Parsons joined in 1960 and shaped many of its products, including the Alpiniste pack, the Karrimat foam mattress of 1965 and the Condor backpack, which won a British Design Award in 1991.
In 2004 the company went into receivership, and its assets were bought by Lonsdale Sports, part of the Sports Direct group, now Frasers Group.
Products and positioning
- Rucksacks and bags
- Outdoor and running footwear
- Outdoor clothing and running products
Distribution
Under Frasers Group, Karrimor is sold through the group's retail network and is also licensed for budget outdoor and running products.
Why it matters
Karrimor is a clear example of a technical heritage brand moving into the value segment of a large sports retailer, trading on a recognised name for accessible outdoor products.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Karrimor from?
Karrimor comes from Lancashire, England, where it started by making bicycle bags.
Who owns Karrimor?
Karrimor has been owned by Frasers Group, formerly Sports Direct, since 2004.