Meyba: The Legacy of the Barcelona Sportswear Brand
Founded in the 1940s, Meyba is a distinguished sports brand hailing from Barcelona, Spain. Specializing in the manufacture of high-quality sportswear and swimwear, the company has evolved from a local textile venture into a name recognized by football enthusiasts worldwide.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1940 in Terrassa, Spain.
- Founders: Josep Mestre and Joaquim Ballbé.
- Specialization: Clothing and footwear, specifically sportswear and swimwear.
- Famous Partnership: Official apparel provider for FC Barcelona from 1981 to 1991.
- Current Ownership: Brand rights managed by the Dutch brand Premium (since 2013).
The Origins and Growth of Meyba
The story of Meyba began in Terrassa, where founders Josep Mestre and Joaquim Ballbé established the company. The brand's name is a portmanteau, derived from the initial syllables of the founders' names. In its early years, Meyba built a strong local reputation by producing shirts, shorts, and shoes tailored for the popular beaches of Barceloneta.
As a Sociedad Anónima (a public limited company), Meyba focused its operations within the textile industry, serving the European market with a commitment to functional athletic wear.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]The Golden Era: FC Barcelona and the Dream Team
Meyba achieved international prominence in 1981 after signing a landmark agreement to provide sports and leisurewear for FC Barcelona. For a decade, the brand was synonymous with one of the world's most successful football clubs.
During this ten-year partnership, the club secured numerous prizes and honors. Meyba apparel was worn by legendary players such as Pep Guardiola, Ronald Koeman, Michael Laudrup, and José Mari Bakero. This era is fondly remembered as the "Dreamteam V1," cementing Meyba's place in sporting history.
Corporate Transitions and Modern Era
Despite its athletic success, the company faced financial difficulties in the 1990s. Meyba fell into receivership—a legal process where a court appoints a receiver to manage a company's assets to pay back creditors—which eventually led to its closure in 1997.
The brand was subsequently acquired by Joan Canals of the Pulligan Group. In 2013, the brand rights were purchased by Premium, a Dutch company that also manages the brand rights of football icon Johann Cruyff.
Current and Future Engagements
Meyba continues to maintain a presence in the sporting world through various associations. The brand is slated to be involved with the Guyana national team starting from the 2025/26 season and has a connection to the Trafford Monday Night League as of the 2024/25 season. Historically, the brand also served the Catalonia regional football team.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Industry | Textile (Sportswear & Swimwear) |
| Headquarters | Barcelona, Spain |
| Founded | 1940 |
| Primary Market | Europe |
| Notable Partnership | FC Barcelona (1981–1991) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Meyba get its name?
The name Meyba was created using the initial syllables of the names of its founders, Josep Mestre and Joaquim Ballbé.
When did Meyba partner with FC Barcelona?
Meyba signed an agreement to provide sports and leisurewear for FC Barcelona in 1981, a partnership that lasted for ten years.
Who currently owns the rights to the Meyba brand?
The brand rights were acquired in 2013 by the Dutch brand Premium, which also manages the rights for Johann Cruyff.
What happened to the original Meyba company?
The company entered receivership in 1994 and officially closed in 1997 before being acquired by the Pulligan Group.
Which national team will Meyba be associated with soon?
Meyba is expected to be associated with the Guyana national team starting from the 2025/26 season.