Umbro
The company name Umbro originated from the initial name of the business. In 1920, Harold Humphrey began a small workshop in Wilmslow, Chesire which he named Humphrey Brothers Clothing. Four years later, the double diamond name was derived from the original company name, Humphrey Brothers. One of Umbro’s first productions was PT gear for the armed forces. They continued to do extremely well, both nationally and internationally, which resulted in the addition of a new warehouse and factory.
Umbro’s name was quickly recognized internationally with their logo being worn by the 1934 and 1935 FA Cup Champions, Manchester United and Sheffield Wednesday. In the 1940’s the Second World War was in effect, and Umbro shifted their focus from sportswear production to armed forces apparel production. They even went as far as producing internal fittings for Lancaster bombers. As the war settled down, Umbro decided to build a second factory in Stockport.
The 1950’s and 60’s were the jump-off years for Umbro. Brazil won the World Cup in 1958 while wearing the double diamond brand and this would not be the first time the logo was seen on the World Cup Champions by millions around the world. Brazil went on to win three more titles in their Umbro kits. In 1966, 15 out of the 16 teams in the World Cup were sporting Umbro kits; including the Champions of the tournament, England.
The first Umbro soccer shoe was introduced in 1985 in Brazil, and three years later it was in production. The release of these boots in Brazil would continue to show Umbro’s relationship with the Brazilian soccer world. These soccer boots have been worn by some of the top soccer player’s known today including Alan Shearer and Roberto Carlos. In 2001, Umbro signed Michael Owen, who was named the European player of the year.
Starting at the 2004/2005 season and still today, Umbro sponsors national teams such as England, Norway, and Ireland. They have also represented some of the top club teams in the world such as Chelsea, Lyon, and Everton. With their focus of continuing to have the top players and teams wear their logo, Umbro signed England’s Michael Owen on a 15-year contract. They are also one of five official sponsors for the FA Cup, and the official sponsor of the new Wembley Stadium. From the start of the company and still today, Umbro wants their brand name to be associated with the best of the best when it comes to players, teams, or even sports venues.
In 2004, Umbro celebrated 80 years of being involved in the world of soccer. They take pride in their dedication to supplying only the best kits and soccer shoes for all the teams around the world they represent. In 2007, they were bought out by Nike for $285 million. They are still the official sponsors of the FA Cup and continue to represent the top soccer players and teams around the world. They keep a close relationship with their sponsored nations and are constantly expanding their sponsorships to represent the finest.
