Barbour reports ‘strong’ year boosted by growth across international markets

Barbour has reported a 9% rise in turnover to £350.8 million for the year ended 30 April 2025, with an operating profit increase of 14.1% - "driven by sales and margin performance".

The British lifestyle brand cited growth across all international markets - from Europe to the US and Asia - as a key factor.

It also delivered "strong" growth in clothing and accessories, which now accounts for almost 50% of Barbour’s sales, as well as “unprecedented growth in womenswear”.

Steve Buck, Group Managing Director at Barbour, said: “Against a complex global backdrop, this year’s financial performance demonstrates the continued strength and resilience of our brands and is a testament to all of our hard working and dedicated employees. It is important, however, that we maintain a focus on overhead cost control while continuing to deliver excellent quality and improved customer service for all of our consumers across the globe.”

Barbour has also expanded its charitable donations through The Barbour Foundation, and has launched a new education initiative in partnership with the British Fashion Council (BFC).

Buck added: “The strong results we have posted have enabled us, in partnership with the British Fashion Council (BFC), to provide support for the next generation of fashion designers. The generosity and support of our shareholders has also allowed a significant contribution of their dividend to go to The Barbour Foundation, helping to make a real difference to so many charities and good causes.”

Meanwhile, Barbour continues to champion investment in the North East of England. The recent opening of the brand’s new showrooms in South Shields has welcomed retailers and wholesale partners from across the world, “representing a key milestone in the brand’s long-term strategy”.

Paul Wilkinson, Group Deputy Managing Director at Barbour, commented: “A key element of our strategic vision is to develop as a lifestyle brand building for the future to support sustainable long-term growth. By continuing to focus on our heritage, authenticity and brand storytelling – most recently brought to life through our global original and authentic tartan campaign – we continue to create a distinctive point of differentiation.

“This long-term approach continues to resonate with womenswear, clothing and accessories growing strongly alongside our established menswear categories. While the UK & Ireland remains robust, we are also driving further success and brand development across our international markets; by working closely with our valued customers, we have achieved steady and consistent global growth.”

Going forward, Barbour plans to further invest in its South Shields factory to support the increased demand for its classic wax jackets, while further developing Barbour’s ‘Wax for Life’ and ‘Quilt for Life’ services - enabling consumers to extend the lives of their jackets in response to the "increasing consumer focus on sustainability".