Made O'Meter
Discover where a brand or product originates
Billabong is an iconic surf and lifestyle brand founded in 1973 on the Gold Coast of Australia by Gordon and Rena Merchant. Originally starting from a kitchen table where the couple designed and hand-sewed durable boardshorts, the brand quickly became a cornerstone of the global surf industry. The name "Billabong" is derived from the Wiradjuri word 'bilabaŋ', which refers to a creek that runs only during the rainy season.
Over the decades, the brand expanded into a wide range of apparel including hoodies, t-shirts, and wetsuits. In 2018, Billabong was acquired by Boardriders, Inc., and later, in 2023, the entire Boardriders portfolio was purchased by Authentic Brands Group (ABG). As of 2026, the brand is part of ABG's extensive global management portfolio, with regional operations often handled through licensing agreements with specialized apparel firms like O5 Apparel.
While Billabong originated in Australia, its manufacturing is now globalized. Most products are produced in various countries across Asia and South America to meet international demand, though the brand remains deeply tied to its Australian heritage and surf culture roots.
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Made O'Meter uses AI-powered analysis to estimate production origins. Results are not always 100% accurate.
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