Helly Hansen, the Norway-based outdoors clothing company best known for its wicking base layer range, posted increased revenues last year, despite the global economic downturn.

The firm, founded in Moss 133 years ago, had operating revenues of 1.507bn Norwegian kroner (£156.6m), one per cent higher than the previous year.

Strong demand in the Nordic countries and South America contributed to its sport division enjoying a 17 per cent to its autumn order book.

The survival and marine business division also produced record revenue.

Group chief executive Peter Sjolander said: “We’re pleased that in a year when many large, well known brands lost revenue and market share, Helly Hansen stood its ground in terms of sales whilst improving fiscal and operational discipline.

“Importantly, the team’s efforts in 2009 have already netted positive results in 2010, including strong growth across the sport, workwear and survival divisions. We are clearly excited about how 2010 is progressing, and barring any unforeseen disruptions it will be a good year for Helly Hansen.”

The company’s outerwear, base layers, sportswear and footwear for winter, outdoor and water sports are sold in more than 40 countries. It invented the first ever supple waterproof fabrics more than 130 years ago, created the first fleece fabrics in the 1960s and introduced the first technical base layers in the 1970s.