Outdoor icons celebrate 60-year milestone

Two North East outdoor brands are marking a milestone anniversary by celebrating their joint roots with a showcase of their history and innovation.

LD Mountain Centre and Berghaus, both founded in 1966, have partnered to commemorate their 60th anniversaries with a special in-store display at the Newcastle shop where their story began.

Originally launched by climbers Peter Lockey and Gordon Davison on Dean Street, LD Mountain Centre became the region’s first specialist outdoor retailer. 

From the same premises, the pair created Berghaus, initially as a distribution arm before developing their own products under the brand.

Over time, Berghaus grew into an internationally recognised name in outdoor equipment, while LD Mountain Centre remained a key player in the UK’s independent retail sector.

The anniversary display showcases archive material, historic products and modern innovations, highlighting the evolution of both brands. 

It also features key developments that helped shape the outdoor industry, from early technical gear to more recent product lines.

Charlie Pym, Berghaus senior vice president, said: “Berghaus is a richly storied brand, and that all began in LD Mountain Centre 60 years ago. 

“So, as we introduce our latest great kit, it’s right to celebrate that deep, shared heritage. 

“Berghaus wouldn’t exist if Peter Lockey and Gordon Davison hadn’t opened their store on Dean Street, and it’s wonderful to see the brand showcased in this way in the place where it was born.”

Roddy Mackay, LD Mountain Centre managing director, added: “Over the past 60 years, LD Mountain Centre and Berghaus have shared an extraordinary heritage that began here on Dean Street in Newcastle. 

“From the early days of developing innovative gear upstairs in the Dean Street shop, through to today, that spirit of innovation and passion for the outdoors has remained at the heart of everything we do.

“Many people who began their careers in the store have gone on to play leading roles across the outdoor industry, which is something we are incredibly proud of. 

“While our roots remain firmly in specialist retail, we have also embraced the evolution of the outdoor market, expanding online and serving customers across the UK and beyond with the same expertise and passion that started here 60 years ago.

“Celebrating this milestone with Berghaus feels particularly special because our stories are so closely connected. 

“We’re proud of that shared history and excited to see the partnership continue into the future.”

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