YESTERDAY

Mr Henri, travelling the globe to promote his new ideas. Mr Henri, travelling the globe to promote his new ideas.

Rolf Bjelke during an artic expedition. Rolf Bjelke during an artic expedition.

The Observer

Henri is an observer. He watches busy seafarers, sailors as they set sail, water penetrating into fabrics and the obscure risks of life at sea. He comes up with the ideal solutions; hence, the creation of the wonder fabric Bri-Nylon®, breathable nylon.
It was soon followed by zippers made of the same non-corrosive material, taped seams to prevent water infiltrations, and Velcro used for clothing for the first time ever. A keen eye for detail and focus on perfection ensure the quality craftsmanship of Henri Lloyd products, winners of the Design Award METS at the Marine Equipment Trade Show held in Amsterdam in 2001.

World War 2 had just drawn to a close when Henri Strzelecki, a decorated soldier from the Polish Free Army settled in the North of England, in Manchester, to be precise.
He longed for a fresh start.
He sought it in his passion for the sea, for sailing, for fabrics and design. He started working for leading clothing companies in the area, but felt the urge to move on, compulsively seeking progress, experimentation and ideal solutions.
And it must be said that few have the daring to take such a step. Therefore, in 1963 Henri Strzelecki turned his vision into a company, which he named Henri Lloyd.

Mr Henri circa 1971. Mr Henri circa 1971.

HRH The Princess Royal meeting with Mr Henri and his two sons on the opening of the new Factory in Manchester, England. HRH The Princess Royal meeting with Mr Henri and his two sons on the opening of the new Factory in Manchester, England.

The Adventurers

These are the people who make the difference. And who 'wear' it. Henri perceived and was inspired by the passions and doggedness of those who pressed on, powered by the dream of climbing mountains, crossing seas and conquering the world. He dressed their adventure to build his own.
The early pioneers and adventurers who circumnavigated the world, such as Sir Francis Chichester, Sir Robin Knox-Johnson and Sir Ranulph Fiennes, were all attired in revolutionary Henri Lloyd clothing.
Today one chooses modern champions like the three times Olympic gold medallist Ben Ainslie, America's Cup yacht crews and other leading charismatic musicians, sportsmen and media geeks. Moreover, the decision to first test product features on the protagonists of competitions during such events enabled the brand to achieve exceptional high quality standards. Hence, Henri Lloyd is the most avant-garde manufacturer of sailing wear.