Billabong International Limited is primarily a clothing company that also produces accessories and skateboard products under other brand-names. Founded in 1973 by Gordon and Rena Merchant, the company first traded on the Australian Securities Exchange on 11 August 2000. The name "billabong" is derived from the Wiradjuri word "bilaba?" that refers to a "creek that runs only during the rainy season". As of September 2013, Von Zipper, and Element are two of the prominent brands that Billabong owns. Honolua Surf Company, Kustom, Palmers Surf, Xcel, Tigerlily, Sector 9 and RVCA are the other brands.
Absinthe Films was founded in 1997. Firmly established as a leading producer of snowboard films, Absinthe Films reflects the voice and vision of people who live to ride. Absinthe Films produces one feature snowboarding film per year. It can be seen on iTunes, BluRay/DVD, VOD, and streamed on the Absinthe APP. Absinthe also produces two 20 plus city film tours (Europe and North America) supporting the annual release of each new film. Continually seeking new ways to present snowboarding in fresh and engaging ways, Absinthe has become a multi-dimensional media company, and industry leader.