Henri-Lloyd & Royal Norwegian YC strategic cooperation aimed at increasing sailing participation
by Henri-Lloyd 5 Mar 07:00 AEDT
The Royal Norwegian Yacht Club (KNS) has announced a new strategic cooperation with world-leading sailing apparel manufacturer Henri-Lloyd. The aim, says Henri-Lloyd CEO Knut Frostad, is to strengthen both the sport of sailing in Norway and increase participation through events and regattas, and ensure members benefit from access to the world's best sailing gear.
One of the first major collaborations is the announcement that Henri-Lloyd will become the title sponsor of Færderseilasen, Norway's largest regatta, taking place on June 13-15 2025. The event, which first took place in 1947, is now one of the world's largest overnight regattas attracting up to 550 entries. The course uses three lighthouses in the Oslofjord as rounding points, with the course length determined on the size of the boat. This year the event will finish in Moss, creating a new and spectacular finish with a temporary marina created to host the yachts, together with land-based entertainments and celebrations.
Secretary General of KNS, Bård Spilling, says: "It is incredibly exciting to be able to collaborate with Henri-Lloyd, especially now that the brand is in Norwegian hands. At the same time, it is fantastic to be able to work closely with Knut Frostad, one of Norway's most profiled sailors of all time. His experience from international regattas, broad networks and commitment not only to top level, but also to coastal and touring sailing, give KNS some fantastic opportunities going forward."
Frostad is one of Norway's most famous and well-known sailors. Having twice competing in the Olympics, he sailed four times around the world in the Volvo Ocean Race. He is an ambassador for the sport of sailing, having been CEO of the Volvo Ocean Race and of Navico Group, known for the brands Simrad, B&G and Lowrance.
In 2024, Frostad was appointed as CEO of Henri-Lloyd, one of the world's most well-known sailing brands, established in 1963 by Henri Strzelecki. The Strzelecki family owned the company for many years before it was sold to Swedish owners, prior to being taken over by Norwegian-based Monte Rosa Capital, which incorporated Henri-Lloyd into a group that also owns the Odlo and Janus brands. Henri-Lloyd has also recently opened its first brand store in Bogstadveien, Oslo.
Celebrating the relationship with KNS, Frostad says "Together, we will lift the sport of sailing in Norway and I will help contribute with my international network and experience. When I started sailing at sea, Henri-Lloyd was the leading brand with the best sailing gear. They were at the forefront when it came to technology and material use, using taped seams and performance clothing for ocean sailing and demanding conditions. We are going back there, and the ambition is to make the world's best sailing gear."
Henri-Lloyd has recently launched its Dynamic range, with unique fabrics and four-way panel stretch, offering a completely new style and feel for marine protective clothing.