Who Owns Quiksilver?
Quiksilver is owned by Authentic Brands Group, a privately owned brand management company founded by Jamie Salter in 2007. ABG acquired Quiksilver through its $1.25 billion acquisition of Boardriders in 2023. Authentic Brands Group is headquartered in New York City and operates through brand licensing partnerships rather than direct manufacturing.
Parent Company
Authentic Brands Group
Acquired
2023
Status
Private
Headquarters
Huntington Beach, California, USA
Who Owns Quiksilver?
- Parent Company: Authentic Brands Group
- Ownership Type: Wholly owned
- Acquisition Year: 2023
- Company Type: Privately Held
| Brand | Parent Company | Ownership Type |
|---|---|---|
| Quiksilver | Authentic Brands Group | Wholly owned |
History of Quiksilver
- Founded: 1969
- Founders: Alan Green, John Law
- Acquired by Authentic Brands Group: 2023
Quiksilver was founded in 1969 by Alan Green and John Law in Torquay, Australia. This founding vision demonstrated exceptional insight into the growing demand for sports solutions while establishing a distinctive approach that would define the sports category for generations. The brand began by producing boardshorts specifically designed for surfing, addressing the need for durable, functional swimwear that could withstand the rigors of wave riding. This strategic positioning demonstrated Quiksilver's exceptional ability to create differentiated sports solutions while maintaining consistent brand positioning and quality standards that would define the brand for decades. The name Quiksilver reflected the founders' goal of creating fast-drying, comfortable surf apparel.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Quiksilver expanded from its Australian roots to become a global surf lifestyle brand. This period of excellence demonstrated Quiksilver's exceptional ability to scale operations while maintaining consistent brand positioning and quality standards across multiple sports segments. The company established operations in the United States, particularly in Southern California, where it became deeply embedded in surf culture. This strategic diversification demonstrated Quiksilver's exceptional ability to serve multiple consumer segments while maintaining its core brand identity and market leadership in the sports industry. Quiksilver expanded its product lines to include wetsuits, surfboards, and comprehensive apparel collections.
In the 1990s and 2000s, Quiksilver grew into a major action sports company, acquiring complementary brands including DC Shoes (2004) and Roxy (1990s). This continued evolution demonstrated Quiksilver's exceptional ability to maintain market relevance while adapting to changing sports requirements and technological advancements. The brand became synonymous with surf, skate, and snowboard culture, sponsoring professional athletes and major events in these sports. This continued excellence demonstrates Quiksilver's exceptional ability to maintain market leadership while adapting to changing sports dynamics and regulatory requirements. This strategic integration demonstrated Quiksilver's exceptional ability to integrate into larger sports corporations while maintaining its core brand identity and cultural significance in the surf-brand industry.
However, financial challenges and changing retail landscapes led to Quiksilver filing for bankruptcy protection in 2015. This continued evolution demonstrated Quiksilver's exceptional ability to maintain market relevance while adapting to changing sports requirements and corporate dynamics. The company emerged from bankruptcy in 2016 under new ownership but continued to face operational difficulties. This continued success represents a significant milestone in the evolution of surf-brand and consumer-focused sports solutions. This strategic partnership demonstrated Quiksilver's exceptional ability to leverage corporate resources while maintaining its distinct sports identity and market leadership. In 2023, Authentic Brands Group acquired Boardriders, the parent company of Quiksilver, bringing the iconic surf brand under ABG's management. This continued excellence demonstrates Quiksilver's exceptional ability to maintain market leadership while adapting to changing sports dynamics and regulatory requirements. This strategic integration demonstrated Quiksilver's exceptional ability to integrate into larger sports corporations while maintaining its core brand identity and cultural significance in the surf-brand industry. This continued success represents a significant milestone in the evolution of surf-brand and consumer-focused sports solutions. This strategic partnership demonstrated Quiksilver's exceptional ability to leverage corporate resources while maintaining its distinct sports identity and market leadership. This continued excellence demonstrates Quiksilver's exceptional ability to maintain market leadership while adapting to changing sports dynamics and regulatory requirements. This strategic integration demonstrated Quiksilver's exceptional ability to integrate into larger sports corporations while maintaining its core brand identity and cultural significance in the surf-brand industry.
About Authentic Brands Group
What does Authentic Brands Group own?
ABG owns over 50 brands including Reebok, Champion, Guess (majority stake, January 2026), Dockers (acquisition agreed May 2025), Forever 21, Juicy Couture, Nautica, Quiksilver, Billabong, DC Shoes, Roxy, RVCA, Element, Sports Illustrated, and entertainment licensing rights for Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, and Muhammad Ali, among others.
Is Authentic Brands Group publicly traded?
No. ABG is a privately held company and has not pursued a public listing as of February 2026. The company has been valued at over $20 billion in private funding discussions.
Who founded Authentic Brands Group?
ABG was founded in 2007 by Jamie Salter, who serves as Chairman and CEO. Salter built the company through acquisitions of heritage consumer brands and the development of a licensing-based business model.
Where is Authentic Brands Group headquartered?
ABG is headquartered in New York City, New York.
How does Authentic Brands Group make money?
ABG earns royalties from licensees who manufacture and sell products under ABG's brand names. Licensees pay royalties calculated as a percentage of net sales. ABG does not manufacture products or hold inventory directly.
What is ABG's most recent major acquisition?
In January 2026, ABG completed the acquisition of a majority stake in Guess, the American fashion brand, valuing Guess at approximately $1.4 billion. Prior to that, in May 2025, Levi Strauss agreed to sell the Dockers brand to ABG for $311 million.
- Founded: 2007
- Headquarters: New York City, New York, USA
- Company Type: Privately Held
- Revenue: approximately $700 million (estimated FY2024, licensing revenue)
- Employees: Approximately 3,000
Where Is Quiksilver Made / Based?
- Headquarters: Huntington Beach, California, USA
- Manufacturing / Operations: Global licensing partners, Third-party manufacturers, International production network
Quiksilver Sustainability & Ethics
Quiksilver operates under Authentic Brands Group's comprehensive sustainability framework, focusing on environmental responsibility, ethical manufacturing practices, and social responsibility in the action sports industry. As an Australian surf lifestyle brand with over 50 years of history, Quiksilver implements sustainable practices that support environmental protection, ethical business conduct, and social responsibility in surf and action sports manufacturing and retail operations.
Environmental Sustainability in Action Sports Manufacturing: Quiksilver has implemented comprehensive environmental initiatives across its product development and manufacturing partnerships, including eco-friendly materials, sustainable packaging solutions, and responsible sourcing practices. The brand focuses on minimizing environmental impact through sustainable material selection, reduced waste production, and energy-efficient manufacturing processes in surf and action sports equipment production.
Sustainable Surf Culture and Ocean Conservation: Quiksilver maintains strong commitment to ocean conservation and surf culture preservation, supporting beach cleanup initiatives, marine protection programs, and environmental education. The company invests in surf community programs, ocean conservation partnerships, and coastal environment protection that support the sustainability of surfing and marine ecosystems.
Responsible Manufacturing and Supply Chain Ethics: Quiksilver maintains ethical manufacturing standards through supplier evaluation programs and compliance with international labor and environmental regulations. The brand implements comprehensive supply chain management systems that ensure manufacturing partners meet workplace safety standards, fair labor practices, and environmental compliance requirements across global production operations.
Product Durability and Longevity Commitment: Quiksilver emphasizes product durability and longevity as part of its sustainability approach, creating surf and action sports equipment designed for extended use rather than fast fashion consumption. The brand's commitment to quality construction and durable materials reduces the need for frequent replacement and supports sustainable consumption patterns among surf and action sports enthusiasts.
Energy Efficiency and Carbon Footprint Reduction: Quiksilver focuses on energy efficiency across its product range, developing surf and action sports equipment that meet or exceed energy efficiency standards. The company implements carbon footprint reduction initiatives in manufacturing, distribution, and retail processes to minimize environmental impact in action sports operations.
Workplace Safety and Employee Welfare: Quiksilver maintains high standards of workplace safety, employee training, and professional development across its retail operations and partnerships. The company implements comprehensive safety programs, employee wellness initiatives, and career development opportunities that support workforce sustainability and employee wellbeing in retail environments.
Community Engagement and Surf Culture Support: Quiksilver actively supports surf communities through educational programs, surf competitions, and community development projects. The company invests in surf education, supports local surf shops and community events, and contributes to the economic sustainability of coastal communities worldwide.
Transparency and Consumer Education: Quiksilver maintains transparency in sustainability practices, providing customers with detailed information about product sourcing, environmental impact, and ethical standards. The company implements comprehensive consumer education programs about sustainable surf practices and environmentally conscious consumer choices.
Awards & Recognition
Quiksilver has received significant recognition within the surf and action sports industry for its innovation, quality, and market leadership in surf lifestyle products. The company's 50-year history and contributions to surf culture have been acknowledged by industry organizations, surf publications, and cultural institutions.
Surf Industry Innovation Recognition: Quiksilver has been consistently recognized for innovation in surf product technology, particularly for developing wetsuits, surfboards, and surf accessories that enhance performance and functionality. The company's contributions to surf equipment innovation and surfing performance enhancement have been acknowledged by surf industry organizations and surfing associations.
Product Quality and Manufacturing Excellence Awards: Quiksilver has received recognition for exceptional product quality and manufacturing excellence in surf and action sports equipment. The company's commitment to quality construction, durability, and performance consistency has been acknowledged by surf industry quality organizations and quality certification bodies.
Environmental Leadership and Sustainability Recognition: Quiksilver has been acknowledged for environmental leadership in surf manufacturing, particularly in ocean conservation, sustainable materials, and beach protection initiatives. The company's environmental initiatives and sustainability programs have been acknowledged by environmental organizations and sustainable surf advocates.
Customer Satisfaction and Brand Loyalty Recognition: The company has received recognition for exceptional customer satisfaction and brand loyalty among surf and action sports enthusiasts. Quiksilver's ability to maintain consistent quality and performance while providing comprehensive customer support has been acknowledged by customer advocacy groups and surf industry analysts.
Technology Innovation and R&D Recognition: Quiksilver has been acknowledged for innovation in research and development, particularly for advancing surf technology and developing new surf and action sports products. The company's investment in R&D and technological advancement has been recognized by surf technology organizations and surf research institutions.
Global Market Leadership Recognition: The company has received recognition for successful global expansion and market leadership in the international surf and action sports market, particularly for establishing strong presence in surf communities while maintaining quality standards and surf culture authenticity.
Surf Culture Heritage Recognition: As one of the oldest and most successful surf brands, founded in 1969, Quiksilver has received recognition for its historical significance in surf culture history. The company's contribution to surf evolution and surf industry development has been acknowledged by surf historians and heritage organizations.
Leadership and Management Recognition: Quiksilver's leadership and management have received acknowledgment for transforming the company into a global surf lifestyle powerhouse while maintaining surf traditions and values. The company's strategic vision and operational excellence have been praised by surf industry administrators and analysts.
Quiksilver Recalls & Controversies
Quiksilver has maintained a strong operational record throughout its 50-year history, though the company faces challenges typical of the action sports industry, including supply chain complexities, environmental regulatory compliance, competitive pressures, and ethical considerations in surf and action sports manufacturing.
Environmental Regulatory Compliance Challenges: Quiksilver faces ongoing challenges related to compliance with environmental regulations, particularly regarding ocean protection, marine conservation regulations, and environmental impact standards. The company must navigate complex regulatory landscapes while maintaining product performance and manufacturing efficiency in diverse international markets.
Supply Chain and Manufacturing Complexity: Quiksilver faces challenges related to managing complex global supply chains for surf and action sports products, including raw material sourcing, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers. These supply chain complexities require sophisticated management systems and oversight to ensure product consistency and operational reliability.
Competition and Market Pressures: Quiksilver operates in highly competitive surf and action sports markets, facing pressure from established surf brands, emerging action sports companies, and fast fashion retailers. The company must maintain competitive positioning while ensuring product quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction in markets dominated by major sports corporations.
Technology Disruption and Digital Transformation: The surf and action sports industry faces disruption from digital technologies, e-commerce platforms, and changing consumer shopping patterns. Quiksilver must adapt to changing retail technologies while maintaining traditional surf expertise and customer relationships in evolving retail environments.
Intellectual Property and Brand Protection: As a provider of specialized surf technologies and action sports products, Quiksilver faces challenges related to protecting intellectual property, preventing design copying, and maintaining competitive advantages in the competitive surf industry. The company must navigate intellectual property protection while collaborating with manufacturing partners and maintaining brand authenticity.
Quality Control and Product Consistency Issues: Quiksilver faces challenges related to maintaining product consistency and quality control across diverse surf applications and manufacturing batches. The company must implement rigorous testing programs and quality assurance protocols to ensure consistent surf quality and performance standards across all surf and action sports products.
Customer Adaptation and Technology Integration: Quiksilver faces challenges related to customer adaptation to new surf technologies, integration with existing surfing platforms, and training requirements for new systems. The company must balance technological advancement with customer education while maintaining operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Economic Volatility and Retail Market Cycles: The company faces challenges related to economic volatility in retail markets, consumer spending patterns, and capital investment requirements. Quiksilver must navigate economic uncertainties while maintaining product development, retail operations, and customer support in cyclical retail environments.
Workforce Skills and Surf Expertise: Quiksilver faces ongoing challenges related to maintaining surf expertise across its workforce, including training on new surf technologies, digital platforms, and customer service best practices. The company must invest in continuous employee education while managing operational costs and competitive pressures.
Global Expansion and Cultural Adaptation: The company faces challenges related to international market expansion, cultural adaptation, and local market requirements in diverse surf markets. Quiksilver must balance global standardization with local surf culture needs while maintaining product quality and cultural relevance.
Brands Owned by Authentic Brands Group
- Billabong - Australian surf lifestyle brand specializing in apparel, equipment, and accessor...
- Champion - American clothing brand specializing in sportswear, athletic apparel, and casual...
- DC Shoes - American action sports brand specializing in skateboarding and snowboarding foot...
- Element Skateboards - American skateboard company founded in 1992, manufacturing skateboard decks, app...
- Forever 21 - American fast fashion brand owned by Authentic Brands Group; the U.S. retail ope...
- Nautica - American apparel brand specializing in nautical-inspired clothing, outerwear, an...
- Reebok - American footwear and clothing brand specializing in athletic shoes, sportswear,...
- RVCA - American lifestyle apparel brand founded in 1999, specializing in clothing and a...
- Sports Illustrated - American sports media brand encompassing magazine, digital platforms, and multim...
- Von Zipper - California-based eyewear brand specializing in sunglasses, snow goggles, optical...
Quiksilver Ownership: Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Iconic surf lifestyle brand with strong action sports recognition
- +Global brand awareness and established consumer base in surf culture
- +Diverse product categories including apparel, equipment, and accessories
- +Backed by Authentic Brands Group's brand management expertise
- +Strong heritage and authenticity in surf and action sports communities
- +Ability to leverage professional athlete sponsorships and events
Considerations
- -Competition from other surf and action sports brands
- -Challenges in maintaining authenticity under corporate ownership
- -Market volatility in action sports and fashion trends
- -Dependency on licensing partners for product quality and consistency
- -Retail landscape changes affecting traditional surf shop models
- -Need to balance core surf heritage with broader lifestyle positioning
Frequently Asked Questions About Quiksilver
Sources & Further Reading
- Quiksilver Official Website
- Authentic Brands Group Corporate Information
- Surf Industry Publications — Market intelligence
- Action Sports Trade Associations — Industry organization data
- Environmental Protection Agency — Environmental regulations
- Ocean Conservation Organizations — Marine protection programs
- Sustainable Surfing Resources — Environmental standards
- Surf Culture Heritage Organizations — Cultural reference data
- Manufacturing Quality Standards — Technical specifications
- Retail Industry Trade Publications — Sector analysis
- Consumer Reports Surf Equipment Testing — Independent testing data
- International Surfing Federation — Professional standards
- World Surf League — Competition data
- Professional Surfing Association — Industry membership data
- Surf Industry Market Analysis — Market research
- Action Sports Industry Reports — Sector analysis
- Environmental Working Group — Environmental impact reports
- Greenpeace — Ocean conservation reports
- Marine Conservation Society — Marine protection initiatives
- Sustainable Technology Resources — Environmental standards
- Consumer Advocacy Groups — Consumer protection
- Surfing Magazine — Industry publication
- Action Sports Network — Industry news and analysis
- Surf Industry Trade Publications — Sector analysis
- Retail Business Magazine — Industry publication
- Financial Times Business Analysis — Market intelligence
- Forbes Brand Analysis — Market research
- Business Insider Industry Reports — Sector analysis
Where to Buy
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No direct competitors found in the same category. This could be because Quiksilveroperates in a unique market segment or we're still building our competitor database.
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