In the 1970s, iconic figures in football such as Emlyn Hughes, Sir Alf Ramsay, Bill Shankly, and Stan Bowles were ardent supporters of Gola, a British brand that was highly regarded as a symbol of success. Over time, Gola gained popularity among rockers like the Gallagher brothers and Paul Weller from The Jam. Fast forward to 2024, Gola trainers were recognized by Vogue as one of the most sought-after fashion items.
The brand’s influence extended to celebrities like Christopher Reeve, who sported a Gola sweatshirt during the 1987 It’s a Royal Knockout event at Alton Towers. However, the legacy of 120 years of British ownership came to a close as Gola was recently acquired by the Japanese conglomerate, Marubeni Corporation.
Nottingham School of Art and Design’s associate professor of fashion and material culture, Dr. Naomi Braithwaite, emphasized the deep-rooted British identity of Gola and expressed a sense of loss with the change in ownership. Founded in 1905 as Joseph Leeson & Sons in Leicester, Gola initially specialized in handcrafted leather football boots. The Harrier shoes, introduced in the 1960s and now available in over 500 color variations, propelled Gola to fame. The launch of Gola bags in the 1970s triggered a frenzy among consumers.
Notable figures like Olympic athlete Anita Neal and footballer Phil Parkes showcased Gola’s products, further boosting its reputation. Despite the change in ownership, there are no immediate plans to relocate Gola’s manufacturing operations from the UK.
The Jacobson Group, reporting significant revenues and profits, assured that Gola would maintain its leadership team and operations in the UK without any layoffs. Dr. Braithwaite acknowledged the challenges faced by the British footwear industry but expressed optimism about Gola’s preservation as a quintessentially British brand under new ownership.
Alongside Gola, the sale to the Jacobson Group includes brands like Ravel and Lotus shoes, with plans to expand into international markets. Dr. Braithwaite highlighted the uncertainties brought by the ownership transition but also recognized the potential for growth and evolution within the fashion industry.
The acquisition by Marubeni Corporation signals a new chapter for Gola, prompting reflections on the brand’s future direction and its enduring British identity amidst a changing landscape.