Directory profile

Speedo International

Nottingham-origin global sportswear brand best known for competitive and recreational swimwear, with products used by Olympic and Paralympic athletes worldwide.

Updated 29 April 2026 · Nottingham Startups index

Profile

Speedo is one of the most globally recognised sports brands with Nottingham roots. While the brand is now owned by Authentic Brands Group and operates internationally, its design and technical heritage traces back to Nottingham's manufacturing and sportswear history. For Nottingham founders, Speedo's journey — from a regional manufacturer to a global licensed brand — is a useful case study in IP management, brand scale, international distribution and the complex transition from product manufacturing to brand ownership.

Nottingham link

Originally manufactured and based in Nottingham, with the brand's UK heritage strongly linked to the city.

Sectorretail
Stagegrowth
FundingAuthentic Brands Group (ABG)
Employees200+
Founded1914