Is the Team GB kit made in Britain?

As Olympic fever grips the nation we aim to uncover if any of the uniform is actually made in the UK

Bradley Wiggins in the Adidas Team GB kit

We all know that Adidas are one of the London 2012 sponsors – their logo is emblazoned on the uniforms of every British athlete at the Olympic Park. And we know that Stella McCartney designed the Team GB kit (but was not responsible for the Jimmy Saville tribute tracksuits that our athletes worn for the opening ceremony – that was High Street retailer Next). And you may also remember that Stella’s designs famously caused controversy when they were unveiled back in March because the flag on them was not the traditional red, white and blue (which in hindsight was definitely the right decision, given that every other product in the UK this summer has had the traditional tri-colour flag on it). But nothing at all has been said about where the uniforms were made.

A look on the Adidas website does not make any mention of country of origin of the Team GB kit, although if you check out the London 2012 shop some of the T-shirts state country of origin as China, and the rugby shirts are from Turkey. Further research did uncover a few British companies who had made products for Team GB, but their contract with LOCOG ( the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games) forbade them from publicising the fact, meaning that British-owned companies, employing British workers, are unable to gain valuable exposure from their involvement with the games.

The 2012 Olympics were heralded as a great opportunity for British businesses, but the reality is that many companies involved have so far been quite disappointed with any potential to turn around what has been a tough last few years for the retail trade. Are you a British business? If so, how has London 2012 been for you? Would love to hear your comments.

In the meantime, if you want the men’s Team GB cycling jersey that Bradley Wiggins wore to win his gold, which may or may not be made in Britain, then Wiggle.com are currently selling it in their sale!