On-site Visit to Barbour

A fifth-generation family business, Barbour’s story began in 1894 when John Barbour started supplying oilskins and other garments to protect the growing community of sailors, fishermen and dockers from the worst of the North Sea weather. Today, the company still manufactures its classic wax jackets, the Bedale and the Beaufort by hand in its South Shields factory, staying true to its heritage while evolving into a globally recognised lifestyle brand.

Under Chairman Dame Margaret Barbour’s control, who has been at the helm since 1968, the company has grown into a fashion powerhouse with an international presence in over 55 countries, a turnover exceeding £320m and a workforce of over 1,200 people. In recognition of her leadership, Dame Margaret won the Entrepreneurs’ Forum Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020 and was recently honoured with the British Fashion Council Special Recognition Award for services to the fashion industry.

Remaining true to their core values, Barbour now offers a full wardrobe of clothing including shirts, knitwear, trousers, dresses, footwear and accessories alongside their iconic jackets. Collaborations over recent seasons have included partnerships with Alexa Chung, GANNI, Erdem and Paul Smith.

Barbour’s influence extends beyond fashion. The Barbour Foundation continues to play a vital role in giving back, having donated over £29m to charitable causes in the North East since its inception in 1988 – this includes a recent £100,000 contribution to the Herd Groyne at South Shields and £1m to the Lit and Phil in Newcastle.

Sustainability is also at the heart of the brand with initiatives like Wax for Life and the newly launched Quilt for Life services helping customers extend the lifespan of their jackets and reduce waste.

Following a short presentation on Barbour’s history from Deputy Group Managing Director Paul Wilkinson, you’ll experience a grand tour of the factory floor and customer services department. After our visit, you’ll have the chance to shop for Christmas gifts (or a treat for yourself) at their outlet store.

Barbour remains one of the North East’s most prestigious brands so don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to go behind the scenes. With very limited spaces available, register online today to avoid missing out.

The Small Print
Due to limited capacity on-site visits are exclusively for entrepreneurial members of the Forum and no guests or substitutions are allowed.