About Us – The Kartel Story

About Kartel:

Kartel is part of John Swan Ltd, a family owned Irish business based in Dublin, Ireland. We were founded in 1947 when a young tailor, John Swan, set up his own modest clothing company in two small rooms above a pub in Dublin’s Hill Street. Initially, the company began making men’s suits, jackets and trousers, but over the last 60 years we have extended our collections into a much broader offering.

In 1985 the Kartel brand was launched with men’s casual jeanswear and suit collections, as well as premium golf apparel ranges for both men and women. Kartel is now a leading Irish menswear label, we are one of the largest clothing distributors in Ireland and we are currently selling in 22 countries worldwide.

Kartel & Golf:

For over a quarter of a century, the Kartel brand has been synonymous with providing superior styling and quality in the golf and leisurewear market. As an Irish brand, we are extremely proud to be at the heart of the game of golf at all levels. In 1997 we signed an emerging Irish golfer, Padraig Harrington. Since then, our partnership has gone from strength to strength and we are delighted to have supported Padraig throughout his three major wins. Since signing our first sponsorship agreement 14 years ago, Kartel has supported numerous promising Irish players including 2009 Irish Open winner, Shane Lowry.

Today we remain heavily involved in championing up and coming tour players. A number of talented young Green 17 players including, Paul OʼHanlon, Cian McNamara, Barrie Trainer, Alan Murray and European Tour player, Gary Murphy currently sport the iconic Kartel brand. Weʼre also proud to support grassroots golf at club level throughout Ireland as sponsors of the Topgolfer Tour. TopGolfer is Ireland's community for golfers with a handicap of 9 or better.

Kartel was the Official Clothing Supplier to the 3 Irish Open for the third consecutive year in 2010. We were also the Official Clothing Supplier to the Ricoh Women's British Open in 2009 and 2010.