Ocorian applauds The Pentland Group’s King’s Award achievement

Ocorian is proud to celebrate The Pentland Group’s remarkable achievement in receiving the prestigious King’s Award for International Trade.

This reward is a testament to Pentland’s ongoing commitment to innovation, responsible business practices, and global success - marking another milestone in the group’s distinguished history. The award not only recognises Pentland’s outstanding performance in international markets but also highlights the enduring values and strategic vision that continue to drive the company forward.

On 11 December 2025, Prapa Pearce, Executive Director, and Gabrielle Skelley, Associate Director, at Ocorian in Jersey, were delighted to accompany Tim Cullen, Group Head of Tax and Company Secretary at the Pentland Group, to receive the King’s Award presented by His Excellency Vice Admiral Sir Jerry Kyd KBE at the Government House.

This moment also reflects Ocorian’s long-standing partnership with Pentland, supporting their Jersey operations through expert governance and corporate services.  By ensuring robust compliance and regulatory efficiency, Ocorian has been proud to play a role in this achievement through its commitment to excellence and client-focused service.

Congratulations to the entire Pentland team on this outstanding achievement!

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The remarkable story of The Pentland Group

Founded in Liverpool in 1932, The Pentland Group began as a modest shoe manufacturer, established by Berko and Minnie Rubin with little more than £100 raised from family and friends. From these humble beginnings, the business has grown into a world-renowned leader in the sports, outdoor, and fashion sectors.

A significant turning point arrived in 1981 when Pentland acquired a majority stake in Reebok, propelling the company to new heights and transforming its fortunes. The subsequent sale of its Reebok shareholding for $731 million underscored Pentland’s reputation for strategic investment and brand management.

Remaining true to its family roots, the Rubin family took the company private again in 1999, enabling Pentland to focus on long-term growth and innovation. This approach led to major investments, such as the acquisition of a substantial stake in JD Sports Fashion plc, now a FTSE100 business, and the expansion of Pentland’s portfolio to include household names like Speedo, Berghaus, Canterbury, Mitre, and Endura.

Pentland’s commitment to responsible business practices has earned it accolades such as the IMD Global Family Business Award in 2017, recognising its efforts to combat modern slavery and champion human rights. In 2019, the group established its parent company in Jersey and Ireland, securing a strong base for continued growth across the EU in the post-Brexit landscape. The company’s enduring success is reflected by its inclusion on the Sunday Times list of top UK taxpayers and its receipt of the prestigious King’s Award, building on six previous Queen’s Awards for Trade and Industry.

Now employing nearly 100,000 people and generating around £12 billion in annual sales, Pentland continues to innovate and expand its global footprint. Guided by family values and a strategic vision, the group remains committed to building a diverse portfolio of brands that inspire and resonate with consumers worldwide.