Since opening our doors in 1978, Carabou has remained committed to one simple principle: providing quality men’s clothing at value for money prices. Nearly five decades later, we’re proud to continue as a second-generation, family-run business, serving customers across the UK with clothing that combines comfort, style and affordability.
While fashion trends have come and gone over the years, our values have remained the same. From our first range of jeans to today’s extensive collection of trousers, shirts, knitwear, jackets and our popular Expand-A-Band range, our focus has always been on helping customers get the most from their clothing without paying more than they need to.
Where It All Began
Every successful business has a story, and Carabou’s began with years of experience in the menswear industry before the company itself was founded.
Our founder started working at a young age and developed a strong understanding of the clothing trade from the ground up. Through dedication, hard work and a passion for menswear, he progressed through the industry, gaining valuable experience in warehousing, sales and management. These early years helped shape the principles that still guide Carabou today: work hard, understand your customers and always provide genuine value.
In 1978, Carabou Menswear was established in Manchester with a vision of supplying quality men’s clothing at fair prices. Initially specialising in jeans, the business quickly began building relationships with manufacturers and customers, laying the foundations for what would become a trusted name within the menswear industry.
Growing Through the Years
Like many independent businesses, Carabou started small.
As customer demand increased, so did the business. Operations expanded from modest warehouse space in Cheetham Hill before moving into larger premises to support a growing product range and increasing stock levels. Every move represented another step forward, allowing the business to serve more customers while maintaining the personal service that has always been at the heart of Carabou.
Over the years, our collection grew far beyond jeans. Trousers became a key part of the range, followed by shirts, polo shirts, knitwear, jackets and seasonal essentials designed to meet the everyday needs of our customers.
Throughout this growth, one thing never changed: our commitment to offering products that deliver excellent value for money.
Built on Value for Money
At Carabou, we’ve always believed that quality clothing shouldn’t come with an unnecessary price tag.
Long before “cost of living” became a phrase we heard every day, we understood that customers wanted clothing that offered lasting value. Rather than chasing short-lived fashion trends, we’ve focused on creating practical, comfortable menswear that can be worn again and again.
Today, that philosophy is more important than ever. With household budgets under increasing pressure in recent years, many shoppers are looking for clothing that balances affordability with quality. We believe value isn’t simply about paying less – it’s about investing in clothing that fits well, feels comfortable and stands the test of time.
That’s why we continue to work with our trusted worldwide network of suppliers, carefully selecting products that meet our standards for quality, comfort and durability while keeping prices competitive.
Designed Around Everyday Comfort
As our customers’ needs evolved, so did our products.
One of our best-known innovations is the Expand-A-Band collection, designed to provide extra comfort and flexibility throughout the day. Featuring a cleverly concealed expanding waistband, these trousers offer a comfortable fit without compromising on appearance.
Alongside our Expand-A-Band range, we continue to develop collections that combine classic styling with practical features, ensuring our customers can rely on Carabou whether they’re dressing for everyday wear, work or smarter occasions.
Our aim has always been simple: create clothing that’s comfortable to wear, easy to care for and built to last.
A Family Business for Two Generations
One of the things that makes Carabou unique is that we’re still a family-run business.
As the company grew, the next generation became involved, helping to continue the values and knowledge built over decades. While the business has embraced new ideas, technologies and ways of serving customers, the principles established in 1978 remain unchanged.
Being family-run means we genuinely care about the people who choose to shop with us. Every product we stock is selected with our customers in mind, and we’re proud of the long-standing relationships we’ve built with both retail customers and independent stockists across the UK.
Looking Ahead
Celebrating 48 years in business is a milestone we’re incredibly proud of, but we’re just as focused on the future as we are on our history.
We’re continually developing our collections, improving our online shopping experience and expanding our range while staying true to what has always made Carabou different: quality products, honest pricing and outstanding value for money.
As fashions change and the retail industry continues to evolve, our commitment remains the same as it was in 1978 – to provide comfortable, dependable menswear that our customers can trust.
Thank You
We’d like to thank every customer who has supported Carabou Menswear over the past 48 years.
Whether you’ve been shopping with us for decades or have only recently discovered our brand, your support has helped shape the business we are today.
We look forward to continuing to provide quality menswear, exceptional value and friendly service for many years to come.