Billabong is recognized worldwide as a producer of surf, skate and snowboarding apparel, hardgoods and accessories. Initially focused on providing standard surfwear to Australian surfers, the corporation has expanded internationally, and sponsors many endure board athletes and the events in which they compete. Concluded crop and diverse acquisitions, Billabong International has established itself as a indispensable player in its bazaar.
Founding
The Billabong clothing association was founded in 1973 by Gordon Merchant of Australia. Initially he and his wife hand-cut surfing shorts Homewards and sold them to resident surf shops. The shorts became favoured among surfers due to their functionality and durability. Two age following they opened their inceptive workshop.
Surf Culture
During the society's aboriginal two decades it was closely associated with surf culture. At approximately this era, surfing was gaining credence as a ace sport. In the overdue 1970s, Billabong began sponsoring regional surfing contests and events. By 1984, Billabong was a sponsor for the Universe Ending Surfing Contest held in Hawaii and attaining international recognition as a surfwear provider.
Skate Culture
During the 2000s, Billabong International made several key acquisitions, starting with Von Zipper in 2001. This was followed by Element in 2002. Other acquisitions include Kustom, Palmers Surf, Nixon, Xcel and Tigerlily. In June 2008, the company acquired Quiet Flight Surf Shops, DaKine and Sector 9.
Sales
In 1981, sales reached $1 million (AUD). By 1991, they had reached $110 million. Last of the 2008 fiscal year, sales had reached $1.35 billion. Billabong products are licensed and sold in over 100 countries.As surf culture (and its associated carbon) was gaining in worldwide popularity, so further was the skate culture. Many surfers were extremely skateboarders, and Billabong began catering to skaters in the slow 1980s. By the 1990s, Billabong was actively marketing skateboarding apparel and accessories.
