Jako

Jako is a German sportswear company that was established by Rudi Sprügel on November 1, 1989, in the small town of Stachenhausen. The brand's inception coincided with a significant historical event, the fall of the Berlin Wall, but in the quiet town of Stachenhausen, Sprügel was laying the foundation for what would become a renowned sportswear brand. The name Jako is derived from the Jagst and Kocher rivers, which flow through the Hohenlohe region where the company was founded. Initially, the company's mission was to provide fast and reliable equipment to all clubs in the Hohenlohe region, starting from Sprügel's brother's garage.

The brand quickly outgrew its humble beginnings and moved to Hollenbach, where the first part of the Jako headquarters was built, including a small warehouse and additional office spaces. This expansion was a testament to the brand's growing success and its ability to exceed initial expectations. Over the years, Jako has continued to evolve, both in terms of its product offerings and its geographical reach. Today, Jako provides kits for a variety of sports, including association football, handball, basketball, ice hockey, and more. The company's products are known for their quality and are used by teams across different levels, from amateur clubs to professional teams.

Jako's commitment to sports goes beyond just providing equipment. The brand has been associated with numerous teams and has sponsored outfits for various national and club teams across Europe, Africa, and Asia. Their sponsorship deals have included teams from diverse countries such as North Macedonia, Moldova, Western Sahara, Afghanistan, Jordan, and many others. The brand's presence is not limited to Europe; it has a global footprint and is represented in more than 40 countries.

The company's history is marked by several milestones, including outfitting its first professional team, Energie Cottbus, which made headlines by reaching the DFB cup final. Another significant moment was when Jako entered the Bundesliga, providing outfits for SC Freiburg. The brand has also expanded its product lines to include running outfits, catering to running groups, track and field clubs, and recreational athletes. This diversification shows Jako's adaptability and its desire to meet the needs of athletes across various sports disciplines.

Jako's visual identity has also evolved over time, with the logo undergoing several redesigns to stay current and reflect the brand's values. The colors of the logo were inspired by the Jagst and Kocher rivers, and the design elements, such as the Jako dots, have become a connecting feature for their jerseys and training suits. The brand's commitment to innovation and design is evident in its catalogues, which have grown from a simple 4-page flyer to a comprehensive general catalogue with more than 300 pages.

In conclusion, Jako stands as a testament to entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to sports. From its origins in a garage to becoming a key player in the sportswear industry, Jako has maintained its focus on quality, reliability, and a deep connection to its roots. The brand continues to equip athletes around the world, supporting them in their sporting endeavors and contributing to the global sports community.