The Beginning
It all began back in 1994 when three apparel enthusiasts, one of whom played hockey, decided to start a clothing company dedicated to the sport of hockey—specifically inline hockey. Based in Southern California, where inline skating had taken the spotlight, they were inspired by the surge in hockey's popularity following Wayne Gretzky's arrival in the area. At that time, hockey fans had few apparel options beyond replica jerseys and the occasional shirt or hat from equipment manufacturers. Recognizing this gap in the market, the trio set out with a simple yet ambitious goal: to build a dedicated apparel brand for hockey that would resonate with fans and players alike.
Inline Hockey Uniforms
Early on, we realized that if we wanted hockey players and fans to proudly wear our gear off the rink, it was essential to have our products showcased on the rink itself. With this vision in mind, we began designing uniforms specifically for inline hockey. Drawing from our past experience in selling to other sports markets, we understood the crucial need for the lightest jerseys paired with the most durable pants. This focus on performance and quality not only boosted our credibility within the hockey community but also established our brand as a go-to choice for players seeking both style and functionality.
Off-Ice Apparel
Building on our success in the rink, we then expanded our offerings to include off-ice apparel, featuring a diverse range of items from tees and hats to cozy hoodies and stylish jackets. To ensure our designs stood out in the competitive market, we collaborated with some of the finest artists and designers in Los Angeles, infusing our collections with a unique flair that resonated with hockey enthusiasts and fans alike.
Brand Identity
To further define our brand identity, we introduced catchy taglines like "MADE FOR MISCONDUCT," "GENUINE HOCKEY OUTFITTERS," and "TEAM APPAREL FOR THE POND AND BEYOND," effectively capturing the essence of our mission. In addition, we proudly unveiled our company spokesperson and mascot, Sammy Biscuit, who quickly became a beloved figure among our customers. Within just a few years, our growth was remarkable; we began sponsoring multiple events and collaborating with the NHL, significantly raising our profile in the hockey community. Our products gained widespread popularity, being sold in numerous retail stores and worn by fans and players coast to coast, as well as in various international markets,
A Temporary Farewell
As our brand flourished and we enjoyed significant success in the hockey apparel industry, the landscape began to shift. Unfortunately, as the inline hockey market started to tail off, the dynamics within our partnership began to change. Despite our shared passion and accomplishments, the Biscuit partners ultimately decided to disband and pursue individual paths.
But We Came Back!
In December of 2011, the original founder and partner Joe “Papa Biscuit” Zambri passed away, leaving a profound impact on the community he helped create. Upon hearing the heartbreaking news, Biscuit fans and former customers reached out to express their condolences and share cherished memories of the glory days of Black Biscuit. Many of these loyal supporters passionately encouraged a revival of the brand, prompting a renewed sense of purpose. In 2012, in homage to Papa Joe, Black Biscuit was reborn under the entity Zambri & Son’s. The "new and improved" Black Biscuit emerged with a revitalized line of uniforms and apparel, catering to both the Ice and Inline Hockey markets.
Black Biscuit Today
Today, Black Biscuit is thriving, actively collaborating with multiple teams, schools, and youth associations, leading to a steady rise in our sales year after year. Our commitment to the community is reflected not only in our sponsorship of various tournaments and charitable events but also in our continuous travels across the country to showcase our innovative products and connect with our dedicated Biscuit Fans. The Black Biscuit team is diligently expanding its range of branded products and apparel categories, ensuring we cater to a diverse audience. While we remain deeply rooted in Ice and Inline hockey, we are proud to extend our offerings to other sports, including Broomball, Dek Hockey, and Softball.
In early 2023, Zambri & Sons LLC merged with Black Biscuit LLC to strengthen our strategic direction moving forward. The legacy of Joe Zambri lives on and flourishes within the newly established Black Biscuit LLC—a wholly owned subsidiary of Thunder Bay Holding Company Inc.
Don't forget to visit our online store, and be sure to ask for Black Biscuit at your favorite sporting goods outlets!
Looking to the Future
Black Biscuit is back on the rise, and we're excited about the bright future that lies ahead! Our commitment to reconnecting with our community and growing our brand has never been stronger. We’re very active on social media and encourage you to engage with us—be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram and X. By doing so, you'll stay up-to-date on all the latest Biscuit products and events we’ll be attending.
Want to work with us?
Tell us all about your upcoming project, and let's kickstart this journey of making great things happen.
You can reach us by calling 855-978-6888 or by emailing sammy@black-biscuit.com.