KingGee (formerly known as King Gee) is an Australian work wear brand. The name is said to have originated from the reigning monarch at the time, King George V, and was an expression that meant 'tops' or 'the best'.[1] It was established in Sydney in 1926 by Robert Adcock. The brand initially produced overalls, but has since grown its products to supply a large range of work wear (including Workcool and Tradies ranges), footwear and accessories.[2]
| Industry | Workwear |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1985 |
| Headquarters | Sydney, Australia |
| Products | Shoes, apparel, |
| Website | www |
History
editIn March 1926, a trade mark application for King Gee was successfully made by Robert Adcock of Concord in Sydney. The trademark was to cover "articles of clothing, including overalls".[3]
After its conception, the brand took off and grew to supply the uniforms for the defense services during World War Two.[2]
In the final six months of 2008, King Gee owner Pacific Brands posted a net loss of $150 million. Following this, in February 2009, 74 workers were retrenched at the Bellambi factory in New South Wales. Citing difficult economic conditions, all manufacturing was moved overseas.[4]
KingGee was acquired by Pacific Brands, then later was bought by Wesfarmers as part of the Workwear Group in 2014.[5]
See also
editReferences
edit- ^ www.bibliopolis.com. "King Gee Shorts on Josef Lebovic Gallery". Josef Lebovic Gallery. Retrieved 11 January 2018.
- ^ a b "Historical manufacturer no. 4: KingGee - bondiwear". 14 July 2014. Retrieved 11 January 2018.
- ^ "TRADE MARK APPLICATIONS". Daily Commercial News And Shipping List. No. 11, 779. New South Wales, Australia. 12 May 1926. p. 8 (Weekly Summary.). Retrieved 5 January 2018 – via National Library of Australia.
- ^ "Pac Brands exits Australian manufacturing". 24 February 2009.
- ^ "PacBrands sells Hard Yakka to Wesfarmers". Herald Sun. 26 August 2014. Retrieved 5 January 2018.