Woolrich has been admitted as the newest Vendor Partner by Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, which provides purchasing and other services for 45 premier outdoor specialty retailers that operate nearly 100 locations across the United States.



Woolrich has been synonymous with quality outdoor clothing for over 180 years. The company got its start in 1830 when John Rich, an immigrant from England, built his first woolen mill in Plum Run, PA. Rich would visit the lumber camps that dotted the area and sell his woolen fabric, socks, coverlets, and yarn from a mule cart.  By 1845, he built a new mill a couple of miles up the road next to Chatham Run, which provided a steadier source of water. That building exists today as part of the group of buildings, homes, and community establishments that have become Woolrich, PA.

Today the village of Woolrich is still headquarters for the company, but the business has grown to a worldwide lifestyle company with a full range of outdoor-inspired products, from jackets and shirts to outdoor furniture. What has not changed in all those years is Woolrich's commitment to quality, value, and products that fit the outdoor lifestyle. 

“Woolrich has been weaving our fabrics into the landscape of America for over 183 years,” said Chris Nitzsche, national sales manager for Woolrich. “As America’s Original Outdoor Clothing Company, we are very proud to have been selected as a vendor partner by Grassroots Outdoor Alliance. We look forward to strengthening our partnerships with the Grassroots Retail Membership, who represent the best of the best in Independent, Specialty Outdoor retail. We can’t wait to see everyone in Knoxville in November!”

Woolrich EVP Patrick Nebiolo said the partnership confirms that “our product offering and branding strategy is the right one for today’s outdoor market. We look forward to a bright future together.”


Travis Zarins, principal and VP of merchandise at Great Outdoor Provision, concurred. “Woolrich products have been a part of Great Outdoor Provision Co. for over 40 years and we’re very excited to have them join the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance as a vendor partner,” he said. “The brand represents a commitment to value and quality that we love sharing with our customers.”

Woolrich will be attending the Fall 2013 Grassroots Summit to be held in Knoxville, TN from Nov. 18-21, 2013.