Table of Contents
- Osprey Packs
- The North Face
- JanSport
- Patagonia
- Timbuk2
- Everki
- Under Armour
- Carhartt
- Columbia Sportswear
- American Eagle
Osprey Packs
Founded: 1974
Background: Osprey was founded in 1974 by Mike Pfotenhauer in Santa Cruz, California. Initially, it began as a small workshop where Mike created custom backpacks for friends and local customers. The company has grown significantly over the years, becoming a global leader in outdoor backpack manufacturing.
History: Osprey's commitment to quality and design helped the company expand rapidly in the 1990s. In 2002, Osprey introduced its iconic "Anti-Gravity" suspension system, which revolutionized comfort in hiking backpacks.
Target Market: Osprey primarily caters to outdoor enthusiasts, including hikers, climbers, and travelers, providing a wide range of packs for these activities.
Founder: Mike Pfotenhauer
Location: Cortez, Colorado
Employees: 350+
The North Face
Founded: 1966
Background: Founded by Doug Tompkins and Susie Tompkins Buell in 1966, The North Face started as a small retail store in San Francisco. It quickly became a go-to brand for outdoor adventurers. Today, it is recognized globally as a premium brand for outdoor apparel and gear.
History: The North Face grew through a series of strategic product innovations, like the creation of high-performance backpacks and apparel for extreme climates. The company also expanded through acquisitions, including purchasing the popular footwear brand, Vans.
Target Market: The brand caters to outdoor adventurers, athletes, and explorers, particularly those seeking durable gear for mountain climbing, hiking, and extreme sports.
Founder: Doug Tompkins & Susie Tompkins Buell
Location: Alameda, California
Employees: 2,000+
JanSport
Founded: 1967
Background: JanSport was established in 1967 by Skip Yowell, Murray Pletz, and John V. Salsbury in Seattle, Washington. The company gained recognition for its innovative backpack designs, including the first-ever backpack with a zipper.
History: JanSport revolutionized the backpack industry by introducing backpacks that were both practical and stylish. Over the decades, JanSport has become a household name in casual and school backpacks.
Target Market: Primarily high school and college students, JanSport has become synonymous with student backpacks. The brand also caters to casual travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Founder: Skip Yowell, Murray Pletz, John V. Salsbury
Location: San Leandro, California
Employees: 500+
Patagonia
Founded: 1973
Background: Patagonia was founded by Yvon Chouinard in 1973 as an outdoor clothing and gear brand. Known for its commitment to environmental sustainability, Patagonia has become a major player in the global outdoor apparel market.
History: Over the years, Patagonia has expanded its product line to include durable backpacks designed for both outdoor enthusiasts and urban commuters. Its "Better Than New" program focuses on repairing and recycling products, reducing waste.
Target Market: Patagonia targets eco-conscious adventurers and environmentally aware individuals who want high-performance gear that is sustainably produced.
Founder: Yvon Chouinard
Location: Ventura, California
Employees: 2,000+
Timbuk2
Founded: 1989
Background: Timbuk2 was founded by Rob Honeycutt in 1989 in San Francisco, initially as a custom messenger bag company. It later expanded into a broader range of bags and backpacks for urban cyclists and travelers.
History: Timbuk2 gained recognition for its durable, customizable bags and its commitment to producing locally. The company continues to manufacture most of its products in San Francisco.
Target Market: Urban cyclists, commuters, and travelers who value durability and style.
Founder: Rob Honeycutt
Location: San Francisco, California
Employees: 150+
Everki
Founded: 2006
Background: Everki, established in 2006, is known for producing high-quality backpacks and laptop bags. The company is focused on creating bags with premium materials and cutting-edge technology.
History: Over the years, Everki has grown to become a top choice for professionals seeking stylish and functional backpacks for work and travel.
Target Market: Business professionals, students, and frequent travelers who require backpacks for laptops and gadgets.
Founder: Unknown
Location: Chino, California
Employees: 100+
Under Armour
Founded: 1996
Background: Under Armour was founded by Kevin Plank in 1996 in Baltimore, Maryland. The company started with performance apparel and expanded into backpacks and gear for athletes.
History: Known for its innovative fabric technology, Under Armour revolutionized sportswear before diversifying into backpacks and outdoor gear.
Target Market: Athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and sports teams.
Founder: Kevin Plank
Location: Baltimore, Maryland
Employees: 15,000+
Carhartt
Founded: 1889
Background: Carhartt was founded by Hamilton Carhartt in 1889 in Dearborn, Michigan. The company began as a workwear manufacturer and later expanded into backpacks and other outdoor gear.
History: Carhartt’s rugged reputation as a workwear brand has made it a go-to name for durable backpacks suited for tough conditions.
Target Market: Blue-collar workers, outdoor adventurers, and those seeking durable and functional gear.
Founder: Hamilton Carhartt
Location: Dearborn, Michigan
Employees: 5,000+
Columbia Sportswear
Founded: 1938
Background: Columbia Sportswear was founded by Paul Lamfrom in 1938. The company initially focused on creating quality outdoor apparel and gear, expanding into backpacks in the 1980s.
History: Columbia is known for its technological innovations in outdoor gear, including the development of the Omni-Tech waterproofing system. The brand has continued to expand its product offerings, including a diverse range of backpacks.
Target Market: Outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and travelers.
Founder: Paul Lamfrom
Location: Portland, Oregon
Employees: 7,500+
American Eagle
Founded: 1977
Background: American Eagle, established in 1977, is best known as a fashion retailer. The company has expanded into backpacks and casual bags, targeting the youth market.
History: In recent years, American Eagle has grown its product offerings to include practical backpacks and luggage, becoming a popular choice among teens and young adults.
Target Market: Teens and young adults looking for stylish and functional bags.
Founder: Jerry and Mark Silverman
Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Employees: 20,000+
