Columbia Sportswear

Columbia Sportswear, founded in 1938 in Portland, Oregon, began as a small family-owned hat distributor known as the Columbia Hat Company. Over the years, it has transformed into a prominent name in outdoor, active, and lifestyle apparel, footwear, and accessories. A significant milestone in its history was the launch of the Bugaboo® interchange jacket in the 1970s, which marked its expansion into outerwear. By 1998, Columbia had grown substantially and went public on NASDAQ, further solidifying its position in the market.

Today, Columbia Sportswear operates over 450 company-owned retail and outlet stores worldwide as of November 2025. The company has a strong presence in approximately 90 countries, selling its products through a combination of wholesale distribution, e-commerce, and direct-to-consumer channels. Columbia's brand portfolio includes well-known names such as Mountain Hardwear®, prAna®, SOREL®, and Montrail®, catering to diverse consumers from technical mountaineers to urban outdoor enthusiasts.

In recent years, Columbia has focused on expanding its direct-to-consumer footprint, with particular attention to key markets in the United States, Canada, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region. The company is actively investing in digital transformation and omnichannel retail strategies, targeting new store growth in both outlet and urban center locations. This expansion reflects Columbia's commitment to increasing its international presence and adapting to the evolving retail landscape.

Columbia Sportswear's headquarters remain in Portland, Oregon, and the company employs nearly 10,000 people globally. Its robust supply chain, dedication to innovation, and established global presence make it a significant player in the outdoor and activewear sector. For commercial real estate professionals, Columbia's multi-format retail presence offers diverse opportunities across urban, suburban, and outlet center locations, underscoring its resilience and continued relevance in the competitive apparel industry.