Reach had the pleasure of hosting the iconic heritage brand, Barbour, at MirrorPix, our remarkable picture archive filled with treasures spanning over 200 years of history. Barbour, renowned for its timeless fashion and connection to British heritage and celebrating its 130th anniversary this year, visited MirrorPix to discover more about our vast repository of images and stories that have shaped the nation.

MirrorPix is Reach PLC’s meticulously curated archive that boasts a collection of regional and national newspapers dating back to the 1800s. From the first footsteps on the moon to everyday snapshots of British life, MirrorPix is an important record of British life from top to bottom and a stunning collection of images and stories.

Barbour’s visit was a journey of discovery, with our archivists sourcing and showcasing imagery that captured the essence of Britain through the decades. It was a fascinating blend of fashion, culture, and history – just like Barbour itself. From old newspaper spreads showcasing the evolution of outdoor wear to iconic images of celebrities throughout the century, sporting Barbour’s brand.

The stand-out moment was how the team of dedicated archivists brought these moments to life. Their passion for preserving history is infectious, and it’s clear that every photo and article in the MirrorPix archive has a story to tell. With their guidance, Barbour uncovered imagery that not only reflected their brand’s rich history, but connected them to the broader cultural fabric of the UK.

Nick Wolstenholme, Agency Account Director at Reach said, “There are a lot of parallels between Reach and Barbour, not least the big role they have and continue to play in their local communities. It was a real privilege to share some of the imagery and news clippings we have of Barbour.”

The visit was a true testament to the power of history in shaping the present. For brands like Barbour and anyone with a love of British heritage—MirrorPix isn’t just an archive; it’s a time capsule that captures the heartbeat of a nation. Whether you’re hunting for that perfect image or just want to dive into the past, our team is here to guide you through every step of the way.

Sue Newton, Global Senior Corporate Communication Manager at Barbour said, “It was a fascinating insight into the history and archives, it was incredible to see so many images that we hadn’t seen before – we really appreciate the time and research it must have taken to pull together all those Barbour images. Sophie and I can’t wait to show them to the wider team where I know there will be similar excitement!”

Ben Bullas, Senior Media Strategist, Journey Further, said, “We’re really proud to have brought Barbour and Reach together for this extraordinary trip down memory lane. As a brand with such a rich heritage, understanding where you’ve come from is a fantastic platform for building the future. The opportunity to see the impact Barbour has had on British life over the years was nothing short of extraordinary.”

Having seen the archive, the team at Barbour are now brimming with ideas and exploring ways they can leverage the newly found images in the near future.