From its Manchester headquarters, this outdoor clothing and footwear brand develops hi-tech fabrics such as Isotex, which is waterproof and breathable. It also sells sportswear and accessories through its Dare2b label. Founded by the Black family in 1981, it exports to 56 countries and earlier this year launched in the US with concessions in 11 Sears department stores. Keith Black, 58, is chairman and chief executive. As we went to press, the group reported sales rose to £165.8m.