Our story

At 51 Degrees North, nestled in the heart of Antwerp, Belgium, our journey began in 2005 with a vision to redefine pet fashion.With a passion for crafting high-quality accessories for beloved companions, we embarked on a mission to revolutionize the pet industry. From humble beginnings, our brand has blossomed into a beacon of innovation and style, earning recognition as the trendsetter in pet fashion.

March 2005

CST FOUNDED

Inspired by design, fashion and expertise in manufacturing furniture and interior design, CST was founded, a manufacturer and wholesaler of pet accessories, born in the heart of Antwerp.

The first collection named 'Surplus Collection' is launched, rattan dog baskets of high and durable quality.
February 2006

Establishing Our Own Distribution in Belgium and First Trade Fair Appearance

The company took a significant step by setting up its own distribution network within Belgium, marking a pivotal shift toward more independent and efficient product distribution. This initiative strengthened the company’s reach, ensuring that the Surplus Collection products would be accessible to distributors nationwide.

The same year, the company showcased its collections for the first time at a prominent Belgian trade fair, establishing its presence in the industry and connecting directly with other key players in the pet accessory market. This debut marked the beginning of a journey characterized by innovation, growth, and deepening partnerships within the industry.
March 2006

Evolving into a Multi-Brand Wholesaler with Exclusive In-House Brands and Licensed Distributions in Belgium

As the company grew, it evolved into a multi-brand wholesaler, diversifying its offerings with several unique in-house brands, including Surplus, Grey Tail, 51 Degrees North, and Basic Line.

This strategic expansion allowed the company to cater to a broader range of pet accessory needs and styles, positioning itself as a versatile leader in the market.

Additionally, the company secured exclusive licenses, further expanding its portfolio with well-regarded products distributed across Belgium. This evolution reinforced its commitment to offering premium, innovative, and varied selections for its customers, solidifying its role as a trusted partner in the pet accessory industry.
May 2006

Expanding International Reach Through Participation in Global Trade Fairs

By actively participating in international trade fairs, the company extended its reach beyond Belgium, attracting a growing international clientele.

These global exhibitions offered valuable opportunities to showcase innovative collections to a wider audience, connect with distributors from various regions, and build strong international partnerships.

This strategic presence on the global stage has been instrumental in driving the company’s growth and solidifying its reputation as a trusted supplier of high-quality pet accessories worldwide.
April 2007

Launch of In-House Production for Woven Products

In this year the company took a major step forward by launching its own in-house production for woven products. This development enabled greater control over the quality and design of these items, ensuring that each piece met the high standards the brand stands for. This initiative not only strengthened the product line but also underscored the company’s commitment to originality and craftsmanship, laying the groundwork for future innovations in pet accessory manufacturing.
January 2014

Consolidation of In-House Brands Under 51 Degrees North and Strategic Shift to Exclusive Brand Focus

The company unified all its in-house brands under the singular identity of 51 Degrees North, adopting the slogan "We Are All 51."

This strategic consolidation marked a pivotal transition, as the company ceased its licensing agreements to concentrate entirely on its proprietary brand.

This decision allowed for a dedicated focus on branding and design, ensuring a cohesive and distinctive presence in the market. By streamlining its brand portfolio, the company reinforced its commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative pet accessories that resonate with its core values and aesthetic vision.
June 2017

Relocation to a New Logistics Center

We relocated to a new, state-of-the-art logistics center, enhancing its ability to manage growing demand and streamline distribution processes.

This move provided a more efficient infrastructure to support expanded operations, ensuring faster, more reliable service for clients.

The upgraded facility marked an important milestone in the company’s growth, reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction.
February 2020

Entry of our own Sales force in the Netherlands

In 2020, the company expanded its direct reach by launching an in-house sales team in the Netherlands.

This new team allowed for closer relationships with local distributors and strengthened the company's presence in the Dutch market.

By having dedicated sales representatives in the region, the company could better understand and cater to the specific needs of its Dutch clients, further enhancing its commitment to personalized service and regional growth.
September 2024

A Step Towards European Growth and Innovation

Antwerp investment fund Meja invests in Going Kolombo.

This strategic partnership brings two ambitious parties together on a mission to innovate and expand the world of pet accessories into new markets. With Meja's expertise and network in international markets, and Going Kolombo's creative strength, there is a bright future for this joining of forces to further and stronger put the 51 Degrees North brand on the map.

The main focus remains crafting innovative, sustainable and high quality pet products with its own research & development and design department in Antwerp.