Frank Thomas rides again
British leathers and boots giants return with mid-price range
‘We need to ensure we’re on the radar’
CHRISTIAN JOHNSON
Frank Thomas are heading back to the big time. The British bike clothing firm grew from nothing to dominate the UK market in the mid-1990s not just with their famous paddock boots and textiles but also with leathers and helmets, before crashing equally spectacularly a decade later.
The Frank Thomas brand, along with some unsold stock, were then bought by motorcycle clothing and accessories retailer J&S Accessories in 2011 and it is J&S who are now attempting to revive the company by launching a new range of kit and by sponsoring a series of British championship racers. The firm have recently released a new range of retro jackets along with two new leather suits and are also now sponsoring BSB contender and former European Superstock 600 Champion, Gino Rea. “We dipped our toe in last year by supporting British Supersport rider Ross Twyman and decided this year that we wanted to go a bit heavier on sponsorship to create even greater brand awareness,” says Christian Johnson, FT’s Brand and Sales Development Manager. “The most positive thing to do was get involved in British Superbikes.
“Our market is UK based. Therefore, we need to do everything we can to ensure we’re on the consumer’s radar. We’ve got to support the riders we currently have and support them well. It’s our first proper year of doing this and we look forward to building on these foundations in the future.” Current products in the range include the Qualifier GP one-piece suit, which retails at £399.99. Available in sizes 38 to 54, there are CE-approved protectors at the shoulders, elbows and knees, as well as elasticated inserts for better movement on the bike. Other features include perforated panels and an aerodynamic hump. Info www.frank-thomas.co.uk