A KISS FROM KITZ.
The history of the Sportalm brand is closely linked to its roots and home: for over 70 years, an international mindset and regional craftsmanship have been cultivated from Kitzbühel. Founded as a small, local knitwear factory, the family business grew into an international brand. Even today, Sportalm's heart beats in Kitzbühel. This is where the company's headquarters are located, and where the Ehrlich family's roots lie. The formula for success: values such as quality, joie de vivre, and a connection to home combine with passion and the courage to embrace trends and changes.
Immerse yourself in our history
What is important to us.
Connectedness
For over 70 years, we have been operating from our home in Kitzbühel. As a family business, we have always thought sustainably across generations and made all decisions with care. The connection to our origins with all its traditions gives us the space for creative designs and the courage to always break new ground.
Dedication
We love what we do. Our decades of manufacturing expertise and our passion for high-quality fabrics and their creative processing down to the smallest detail are our ambition. Handmade embroideries and appliqués, unusual prints, as well as innovative materials and functional designs are part of every Sportalm product. Because changes bring new ideas.
Future Orientation
Our way of working has always been characterized by sustainability. Our collections are produced almost exclusively in Europe, largely in our own production facilities in Bulgaria. Our fashion is distributed online and worldwide. Sportalm stores are located in Kitzbühel, Vienna, Salzburg, Sylt, Munich, Moscow and Taipei, among other places.
From Kitzbühel to the wider world. Our story.
1953
Founded by Willy Kruetschnigg as a small, local knitwear company.
1968
Acquisition by Kibek and expansion of the product range to include dirndls.
1973
The development of ski fashion takes its course, KR Franz Kneissl becomes a shareholder and owner.
1976
Wilhelm Ehrlich becomes Managing Director and successfully expands the company.
1979
Establishment of the first flagship store in Kitzbühel city center under the direction of Herta Ehrlich.
1980
Acquisition by Wilhelm Ehrlich. Sportalm brings color to traditional costume fashion and thus becomes a pioneer.
1986
Sportalm is permitted to use the Austrian federal coat of arms in business dealings.
1996
Establishment of Moda Sport in Sofia, Bulgaria, and our own production facilities in Madan.
1998
Collaboration with designers Marithé and François Girbaud. Development of the successful MFG Actlive line.
2004
A new era begins. The brand portfolio is expanded to include fashion. Strong growth follows.
2009
Opening of the flagship store in Vienna. Designed by architect Johannes Baar-Baarenfels, crowned one of the 10 best stores in the world by the World Architecture Festival.
2010
Sportalm is recognized as Tyrol's best family business and Wilhelm Ehrlich is honored as Entrepreneur of the Year.
2013
Grand anniversary celebration on the occasion of the company's 60th anniversary and the 70th birthday of company founder Wilhelm Ehrlich.
2014 - The Grand Opening
Opening of the new headquarters in Kitzbühel. The innovative concept and the connection to nature reflect the company's values. The white, curved facade with its modern window fronts blends perfectly into the backdrop of the Tyrolean Alps.
2018 - Brand Life Award
The goal of this award is to recognize decision-makers who have demonstrated leadership, consistency, and sustainable action through their personal commitment and passion for the brand.
2019
Store opening in Innsbruck and Sylt
Showroom Opening at Palais Wessely
The Palais Wessely in Argentinierstraße, Vienna, is becoming an extraordinary home for the Sportalm collections.
2020
Ulli Ehrlich takes over as Managing Director of Sportalm.
The new Ulli Ehrlich line is presented
Launch of the Home Collection interior line
Opening of Sportalm Store in Salzburg
2023
Anniversary Gala in an exceptional location. Sportalm Kitzbühel celebrates its 70th company anniversary and the 80th birthday of company founders Wilhelm and Herta Ehrlich at the Spanish Riding School in Vienna.
An award for (a working) life: Entrepreneur of the Year 2023
Sportalm CEO Ulli Ehrlich was named "Entrepreneur of the Year 2023" at the annual industry meeting of the Textile, Clothing, Footwear and Leather Industry Association.
Her formula for success: courage, talent, and commitment.
And, of course, the right amount of decisiveness.
