UK-made ‘trade range’ in the pipeline.
Yaris Equestrian is under new management following its acquisition by branded workwear supplier JS Teamwear.
Founded by Jane Smith and Sarah Pitts in 2017, JS Teamwear makes personalised clothing and kit for teams, clubs and businesses.
Jane and Sarah say their acquisition “marks an exciting new chapter for Yaris Equestrian” which specialises in UK-made rugs, saddle pads and bespoke products.
Yaris also has a specialist racing portfolio supplying trainers, owners and racecourses.
The new owners add that the company is developing a “trade range for conscientious retailers looking to purchase quality products and support UK manufacturing.”
Said Jane and Sarah: “Yaris Equestrian is a fantastic brand with huge potential and a strong reputation for quality.
“Our focus is on building on that heritage, while bringing fresh ideas, product innovation and new energy to the Yaris range.”
How Yaris happened…
Rug manufacturing stalwart Ray Todhunter and show jumper Simon Buckley founded Yaris Equestrian in 2013.
Many years before, Ray had joined J W Wilkinson & Sons as a supervisor, going on to become the Cumbria-based company’s managing director and owner.
J W Wilkinson & Sons had been making horse rugs – notably under the Kingshead brand - for around 200 years and held a Royal Warrant.
Ray retired at 65 and sold J W Wilkinson & Sons, but the business ceased trading soon after.
Simon Buckley was among its former customers who persuaded Ray to come out of retirement and start a new venture – Yaris Equestrian. The name Yaris is Si and Ray spelt backwards.
They developed a range of horse wear and stable apparel, while also supplying white label customers.
By 2018, Ray’s son James Todhunter had joined the company and acquired Simon’s shares in its two brands, Yaris Equestrian and Yaris Racing.
Yaris Equestrian’s new owner is Nottinghamshire based JS Teamwear.
