Carradice and UPSO acquired by the Aquapac Group

British outdoor and water sports accessories brand Aquapac has announced it has acquired the Carradice label.

Carradice has been making performance luggage for cycling since 1932 in Lancashire and now has a portfolio of goods that stretches through touring and bikepacking, right into bike bags for Bromptons. More recently, Carradice started a second brand, UPSO, which uses upcycled tarpaulin from lorries to create urban backpacks and panniers.

“We see this as a great opportunity to grow the Carradice and UPSO brands in the UK and abroad,” says Max Malavasi, Chairman of Aquapac Group Limited which also owns Aquapac USA LLC. “There are lots of synergies with the two companies in sales, marketing, R&D and manufacturing meaning our three brands dovetail really well. Along with Aquapac, these are well-established brands which produce most of their products here in England. We are confident we can promote sales across Europe and the US too, selling all three brands through our international distribution hubs. We’re excited to move forward together and stronger.”

Aquapac Sales Director, John Kelly, says: “As the Aquapac Group, we are able to offer our international customers more than ever before. We have something for everyone who enjoys the outdoors, whether on foot, in the water or on two wheels. The formation of the group and acquisition of Carradice really strengthens our brands moving forward.”

David Chadwick has been CEO of Carradice since taking over from his dad in 1994. The business flourished under this enthusiastic management and David will continue in his existing role and additionally as a Director of Aquapac Group Limited.

David says: “I couldn’t be happier to join Carradice with Aquapac and form the Aquapac Group, which sees three great British brands come together. We are committed to investing in our people and proud to manufacture in the United Kingdom. Carradice now has new opportunities for international expansion, and we will be able to take another step forward while continuing to manufacture the same great products our customers know us for.”