O'neill Wetsuits Original

History of O’Neill

When was the company founded?

O’Neill is originally a Californian surf wear and surfboard brand started in 1952.

Where was it founded?

It was founded in San Francisco, California in 1952. 69 years ago.

Who were the founders?

The founder is Jack O’Neill.

Why was it founded?

In 1952, he founded the O’Neill brand while opening one of California’s first surf shops in a garage on the Great Highway in San Francisco, close to his favorite bodysurfing break at the time. This led to the establishment of a company that deals in wetsuits, surf gear, and clothing.

Important milestones in the company’s history

In May 2007 the ownership of the brand was sold to Logo International B.V. a private company owned by Ronald de Waal headquartered in The Netherlands and faced difficulties for years.

Since 2018 the company is under full control of Peter Truijen and is making a jumpstart to a better future despite covid-19.

In 1996 O’Neill set up the O’Neill Sea Odyssey, a free, ocean-based program to educate young people about the marine environment. Over 100,000 children have participated in this program.  O’Neill is involved in various other causes to help support the environment, such as through O’Neill Blue.

O’Neill sponsors young promising as well as high-profile surfers, boarders and skiers, as part of their ambassador program.

Any other important people who contributed to success?

Jack O’Neill’s son Pat invented the leash on the surfboard.

Peter Truijen took full control of the company and is making a jumpstart to a better future despite covid-19.

Company mission, vision and values

What does the company believe in?

The Company Today

Who is the CEO?

Daniel Neukomm is the CEO of La Jolla Group from 2013 to present. La Jolla Group holds the clothing license of O’Neill.

How many staff do they have?

O’Neill has 700 employees and is ranked 5th among it’s top 10 competitors.

How much revenue do they earn?

O’Neill has a revenue of $343M.

Where are they located?

O’Neill Wetsuits LLC is located at 1071 41ST Ave Santa Cruz​, CA, 95062-4400 United States.

O’Neill operates from headquarters in Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, The Netherlands.

Do they have a foundation / non-for-profit arm?

They don’t have a foundation or non-for-profit arm.

Which products do they specialize in?

O’Neill specializes in Apparel, Snowwear, Swimwear, Surfwear and Lifestyle.