The Clothing Retail Sector in Karmøy: Companies, Statistics, and Outlooks

Karmøy has an active clothing retail sector with 46 registered companies, although only 16 are detailed in the data. The industry has been marked by fluctuations in sales and employment numbers over the years, with a significant decline in 2025. At the same time, data shows that Karmøy falls within a broader creative, arts, and entertainment activities sector with 70 companies, which could provide a basis for collaboration or diversification.

Sales for clothing retailers in Karmøy have grown from NOK 165.8 million in 2016 to a peak of NOK 174.9 million in 2024, followed by a sharp decline of 34% in 2025. The number of employees has been more stable, decreasing from 223 in 2016 to 175 in 2026. The most notable development is therefore the extreme sales decline in 2025, which may indicate structural challenges in the sector.

The 16 registered companies in the data include well-known names such as H&M, Kappahl, and Lindex, as well as newer players like Claire Kids (2022) and Change Of Scandinavia (2022). Most companies are organized as AS (23 companies in total in the municipality). Some companies, such as Condor Oasen and Fransa Oasen, have no reported sales or operating income, which may indicate newly established or underperforming businesses.

Karmsund is the most active area with 14 companies, 117 employees, and NOK 115.1 million in operating income. Åkrehamn has 7 companies and 45 employees, while Kopervik has 2 companies and 13 employees. Karmsund shows higher EBITDA margins (7%) compared to Åkrehamn (6%) and Kopervik (4%), indicating better operational efficiency in the capital area.

None of the 16 detailed companies are registered as bankrupt, but several have negative EBITDA values or zero sales. For example, Zavanna Oasen Storsenter Haugesund has an EBITDA margin of -11%, and Stempel AS has zero EBITDA. This may indicate economic challenges for certain actors, even though bankruptcy has not been reported.

The sharp decline in sales in 2025 (34%) indicates potential challenges for new entrants. However, Karmsund remains an important hub for the sector with several established companies. Founders should consider focusing on areas with existing infrastructure while remaining aware of fluctuating market conditions.

The broader creative, arts, and entertainment activities sector in Karmøy has 70 companies, providing a larger foundation than the clothing retail sector. The parent sector had NOK 212.7 million in sales in 2023, but a decline of 43.3% in 2025. Peer companies include second-hand stores and shoe stores, which may offer opportunities for diversification or collaboration.

The clothing retail sector in Karmøy shows both potential and challenges. By focusing on Karmsund and existing companies, founders can find support structures, but the fluctuating sales development requires careful financial planning. SmartGrunder can help find suitable locations and analyze market prospects in the municipality.