Our journey

From local roots to global leadership in sportswear: over 50 years of passion, growth, and innovation

Macron was founded in Bologna in 1971, beginning as a local sports goods store. In the 1980s, it evolved into a small manufacturing company producing apparel for leading sports brands of the time, such as Champion. In the 1990s, Macron launched its own brand, while continuing third-party production.

The turning point came in 2001 with the first technical sponsorship of a professional football club: Bologna FC 1909. That partnership marked the beginning of Macron’s expansion in professional sports, spanning multiple disciplines. Today, Macron is the official technical sponsor of over 100 professional clubs, national teams, and sports federations in more than 25 countries.

The path of growth and success has spanned more than 50 years, leading to extraordinary results. Since 2004, revenue has grown from 10 million euros to 224 million in 2024, with more than 80% of revenues generated from international markets.

Milestones

1971

Macron was founded in Bologna, starting out as the exclusive distributor in Italy of baseball equipment for MacGregor USA and other American brands in the baseball sector.

2001

The partnership with Bologna FC 1909 inaugurated Macron’s entry into professional football. In 2024, Macron celebrated the club’s historic qualification for the UEFA Champions League with an exclusive jersey exhibition at the Macron Campus “Sala dei Sogni”.

2004

A new era began with the appointment of Gianluca Pavanello as CEO, initiating a transformation still driving Macron’s growth

2010

The launch of the Macron Store concept and the official online shop strengthened the brand’s retail presence, offering a full range of teamwear, leisurewear, and accessories while bringing fans closer to their teams.

2013

Macron entered international rugby by becoming the technical sponsor of the Scottish Rugby Union—one of the most enduring and successful partnerships in the sport. The relationship was further renewed in 2024.

2019

Macron became the official technical sponsor of UEFA referees, supplying apparel for all match officials across UEFA competitions.

2022

In partnership with World Rugby, Macron provided official apparel for the Emirates Match Officials and staff during global tournaments, including the Rugby World Cup 2023.

2024

Macron further strengthened its global presence with the opening of a new US headquarters, a strategic move to expand in one of the world’s most dynamic sportswear markets.

2025

Construction begins on a third building, expanding the Macron Campus to cover a total green area of 100,000 sqm. This extension further strengthens the company’s production and logistics capabilities, highlighting Macron’s commitment to sustainable and continuous growth.