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Who Owns Billabong and Quiksilver in 2024?
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Quick Answer
In 2024, the ownership of Billabong and Quiksilver lies with Authentic Brands Group. Authentic Brands Group, a New York-based company, finalized the purchase of Boardriders Inc., which includes iconic surf brands like Quiksilver and Billabong. With this acquisition, Authentic Brands Group now owns a portfolio of lifestyle, entertainment, and media brands, including Quiksilver, Billabong, Roxy, RVCA, DC Shoes, Element, VonZipper, Honolua, and Boardriders.
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Quick Tips and Facts
- Authentic Brands Group is a New York-based company that specializes in acquiring and managing iconic brands.
- The acquisition of Boardriders Inc., which includes Quiksilver and Billabong, has expanded Authentic Brands Group’s portfolio significantly.
- Quiksilver and Billabong have deep roots in Orange County, with North American licenses originating from beach-town bedrooms.
- Both Quiksilver and Billabong faced bankruptcy and leadership changes before the acquisition by Authentic Brands Group.
Background: The Journey of Quiksilver and Billabong
Quiksilver and Billabong, two iconic surf brands, have a rich history and a strong presence in the surfing community. Let’s take a closer look at their journey and how they ended up under the ownership of Authentic Brands Group.
1. Quiksilver: From Beach-Town Bedrooms to Global Recognition
Quiksilver, founded by Alan Green in Australia, quickly gained popularity for its innovative surfwear. In the 1970s, Bob McKnight and Jeff Hakman, two surf enthusiasts, bought the U.S. license for Quiksilver from Alan Green. They recognized the brand’s potential and transformed it into a global phenomenon.
2. Billabong: The Australian Surfing Heritage
Billabong, another Australian-born brand, also made its mark in the surfing world. Introduced to the U.S. market by Bob Hurley, who later created his own brand, Hurley, Billabong captured the essence of the Australian surfing lifestyle. With its high-quality products and distinctive designs, Billabong became a favorite among surfers worldwide.
3. The Challenges Faced
Both Quiksilver and Billabong faced their fair share of challenges over the years. Financial difficulties, leadership changes, and the need for bailouts were some of the hurdles they had to overcome. However, their strong brand identities and loyal customer base helped them weather the storm.
The Acquisition: Authentic Brands Group Takes the Helm
In a significant development, Authentic Brands Group finalized the purchase of Boardriders Inc., the parent company of Quiksilver and Billabong. This acquisition has brought together two iconic surf brands under the umbrella of Authentic Brands Group.
4. Authentic Brands Group: A Powerhouse of Brands
Authentic Brands Group is a New York-based company that specializes in acquiring and managing iconic brands. With the addition of Quiksilver and Billabong to its portfolio, Authentic Brands Group now owns a diverse range of lifestyle, entertainment, and media brands. Some of the notable brands under Authentic Brands Group include Roxy, RVCA, DC Shoes, Element, VonZipper, Honolua, and Boardriders.
5. The Financial Impact
The acquisition of Boardriders Inc. by Authentic Brands Group has had a significant financial impact. Authentic Brands Group already generates about $24.7 billion in global annual retail sales and has a presence in over 150 countries. With the addition of Boardriders to its portfolio, the annual retail sales are expected to exceed $27.6 billion. This acquisition has further solidified Authentic Brands Group’s position as a global leader in the lifestyle and entertainment industry.
FAQ
Is Quiksilver and Billabong owned by the same company?
Yes, Quiksilver and Billabong are both owned by Authentic Brands Group. Authentic Brands Group acquired Boardriders Inc., the parent company of Quiksilver and Billabong, consolidating the ownership of these two iconic surf brands.
Read more about “What Brands Does Quiksilver Own? …”
Who bought out Billabong?
Authentic Brands Group bought out Billabong as part of its acquisition of Boardriders Inc. Billabong is now under the ownership of Authentic Brands Group.
Read more about “Who are Quiksilver Competitors? …”
Who bought out Quiksilver?
Authentic Brands Group also bought out Quiksilver as part of its acquisition of Boardriders Inc. Quiksilver is now part of Authentic Brands Group’s portfolio of lifestyle, entertainment, and media brands.
Read more about “Who are Quiksilver Competitors? …”
Who owned Billabong?
Before the acquisition by Authentic Brands Group, Billabong was owned by Boardriders Inc. Boardriders Inc. was a global action sports and lifestyle company that operated several iconic surf brands, including Billabong.
Read more about “How did Rip Curl start? …”
Conclusion
In 2024, Authentic Brands Group is the proud owner of Billabong and Quiksilver, two legendary surf brands. With their rich history and global recognition, Billabong and Quiksilver continue to be at the forefront of the surfing industry. Under the ownership of Authentic Brands Group, these brands have the opportunity to thrive and grow even further.
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For more information about the surfing industry and other iconic surf brands, check out our Surf Brand Guides, Surf Fashion, Surfing History, and Surf Gear categories on Surf Brands™.
Recommended Links
Reference Links
- Quiksilver, Billabong sale to Authentic finalized
- Authentic Brands Group
- Quiksilver Official Website
- Billabong Official Website
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