Every surfer, skater, and snowboarder worth their salt has worn clothing from Quiksilver, Billabong, and Volcom at some point. For decades, these brands have been the symbol of these urban sports, dominating that niche in the textile sector and accompanying millions of young people worldwide. But it seems that the end of an era has come, and the stores of these brands will close their doors in the United States.
Altogether, there are 124 stores in the US, 35 in California, the paradise for surfers and skaters. It's bad news for an entire generation that has grown up clad in garments from these brands, which, following the bankruptcy declared by their parent company, Liberated Brands, have had no choice but to shut down.
"The Liberated team has worked tirelessly over the past year to drive these iconic brands, but the volatility of the global economy, changes in consumer spending, rising living costs, and inflationary pressures have taken a toll," justified the parent company in a statement.
The good news is that they will continue manufacturing clothing and selling clothing online through collaborating stores and partners who work with their brands.
A solution is also being sought for these franchises in Australia, Europe, Japan, and Canada. For these territories, a buyer is being sought to take over the marketing of these brands.