It’s been 60 years since Henri Strzelecki began creating the world’s best waterproof clothing. Not just a business venture, but the journey of a visionary who went on to establish that global authority in technical boating apparel which is Henri-Lloyd. A brand that introduced unique innovations, from seam taping to ensure total garment waterproofing to the invention of the nylon zipper, yet never rested on its laurels, but instead continued to invest and innovate at a steady pace to look forward. This is evidenced by two recent developments at Henri-Lloyd: the commencement of collaboration with Nautor Swan and the appointment of Knut Frostad as the new Executive Chairman.
Henri-Lloyd and Nautor Swan: a partnership between two iconic brands
Nautor Swan and Henri-Lloyd are two of the world’s most successful brands in the sailing world and, from this year on, they have decided to join forces in a collaboration that will see Henri-Lloyd as the official sportswear partner for Nautor Swan and ClubSwan’s prestigious sailing ventures. As two leading entities synonymous with excellence in sailing, this union aims to elevate the experience for participants and enthusiasts alike, merging cutting-edge technology with a shared passion for being on the water.
The partnership between Nautor Swan and Henri-Lloyd brings together two businesses with closely shared values of exceptional quality, innovation, and timeless design, as well as a cherished heritage spanning several decades. Both companies share the same vision and love for the sport of sailing, with Nautor Swan renowned for its world-class performance bluewater cruising and racing yachts, and Henri-Lloyd designing and manufacturing clothing to keep people safe and warm.
The two brands kicked off their collaboration at the last BOOT Düsseldorf, with the Nautor Swan team dressed by Henri-Lloyd to present its new range of onshore apparel, elegant and high-quality, ideal for corporate wear, team attire, and leisure. Also on display was the new 2024 range, dedicated to inshore and offshore sailors, built upon Henri-Lloyd’s 60 years of design and production excellence. Already launched last November at the Metstrade boat show in Amsterdam, the aesthetics of the new range directly draw from the brand’s heritage, reusing familiar product names and popular features from the past. All new Henri-Lloyd 2024 products can be easily branded with company, club, or team logos.
“ When it became clear there was an opportunity for our brand to align itself with Nautor Swan and ClubSwan Racing, it was a dream opportunity – says Graham Allen, CEO of Henri-Lloyd – Both brands have iconic heritages and many shared values around Performance and Quality, but importantly, a shared belief in the importance of sporting elegance that defines our products and the way we present our brands to the world. We only see great opportunities to create exciting products and services for the Nautor Swan and ClubSwan Racing Owners and customers in the future, and our team is so excited to get started”.
The new Executive Chairman Knut Frostad
Another novelty concerning Henri-Lloyd’s 2024 plans, as mentioned, is the appointment of Knut Frostad as Executive Chairman. Frostad currently serves as the director of the board at Monte Rosa Sports (MRS), the Swiss holding company that owns the sporting apparel brands Henri-Lloyd, Odlo, and Janus.
As Executive Chairman of Henri-Lloyd, Frostad will work alongside current CEO Graham Allen. Frostad’s role will focus on finance and sales for the brand, whilst retaining his position on the Monte Rosa Sports Board.
Knut Frostad’s career in the business world is equally illustrious as his sporting one: Frostad successfully led the Volvo Ocean Race for many years before becoming CEO of the nautical electronics company Navico in 2019.
Graham Allen, CEO of Henri-Lloyd, said: “I’m delighted that Knut has chosen to join our business. He has an exceptional standing within the yachting and boating industry. We’re looking forward to having the benefit of his wealth of knowledge and expertise as we rebuild the Henri-Lloyd business.”
