11 July 2024

Henri-Lloyd has appointed VDM-Reya as its exclusive distributor in France. Henri-Lloyd’s full range of Yachting and Boating clothing will be on show at France’s two major boat shows, Cannes Yachting Festival and Grand Pavois at La Rochelle.

Headquartered near Toulon, VDM-Reya employs over 120 personnel with a dedicated 25-strong sales team, and represents leading brands including Jabsco, JL Audio, Magma and Sierra.

Jean-Nicolas Barral, Managing Director of VDM-Reya says: “Henri-Lloyd has been synonymous with excellence and innovation in the nautical apparel industry for decades. Its commitment to producing high-quality clothing designed to ensure safety and comfort in diverse maritime conditions aligns perfectly with VDM-Reya's values. As a distributor of boat equipment, we have always strived to offer our customers the best products available, and the Henri-Lloyd range allows us to continue this tradition of excellence.”

Simon Payne, Chief Commercial Officer at Henri-Lloyd said the company was delighted to have appointed VDM-Reya to represent the brand in such a key market. “France is a very important sales area for Henri-Lloyd and our new Yachting and Boating range will appeal to all boaters. From the highly technical offshore clothing and breathable waterproof jackets and salopettes for sailing and powerboating through to wicking thermal base layers, a range of mid-layers as well as practical and stylish shirts, polos, T-shirts, shorts and trousers suitable for wearing on the water and on shore.” 

With a heritage spanning seven decades, the new collection incorporates some of the most highly technical features, including PFC-free, recycled waterproof and water-resistant fabrics, four-way stretch and ergonomically designed garments, taped seams, all-round vision hoods, high visibility patches and UV protection – all guaranteed to ensure wearers experience the ‘best days of their lives’ on the water. 

As well as appealing to individuals, the new Henri-Lloyd collection is designed specifically to complement corporate and team wear needs. The discreet Henri-Lloyd logos are intentionally positioned to enable companies, teams and individuals to be able to put their own additional, personal branding in key positions on the garments. 

Olivier Carayon, Marketing and Purchasing Director of VDM-Reay said that Henri-Lloyd’s strategy to offer a comprehensive and long-lasting collection in a limited range of key colours enables their regionally based sales representatives to better support stockists and the end customer. “We appreciate Henri-Lloyd’s eco-responsibility by offering a repair service, reflecting its intention that their clothing should be long-lasting and bought for a lifetime of use,” he stated.

Over its 60 years, Henri-Lloyd clothing has been chosen by yachting legends including Sir Francis Chichester, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, Sir Ranulph Fiennes and Sir Ben Ainslie. This year sees the INEOS Britannia British Sailing team wearing Henri-Lloyd clothing for its challenge in the 37th America’s Cup.