Formal wear origins

SCABAL IN FIGURES
MORE THAN
65 COUNTRIES
That’s where Scabal can be purchased worldwide.
Founded in Brussels in 1938, Scabal has grown
into a worldwide luxury fabrics and clothing
brand. In a controlled expansion, Scabal first
built its European business before entering
the USA and Japan in the 1970s, followed by
the Middle East and Asia.
“Think global, act local is the way we have done it,” says
Scabal Group CEO Gregor Thissen. “We pursue a global
strategy but always adapt it to local circumstances.”
This approach goes beyond regional preferences for
fabrics, designs and styles. The Scabal structure itself
reflects local differences: some markets have Scabal
subsidiaries with wholesale distribution, while others
work through agents, distributors or retail customers.
Around a dozen countries have shops bearing the Scabal
name under license.
6 I BESPOKEN
Scabal’s worldwide activities
What does it take to expand internationally? “You must have
a clear image,” says Gregor, “and the flexibility to work with
local rules and customs. It means having people who understand
this and who can apply it.”
Scabal has 15 different nationalities in its staff of more than
100 at the Brussels worldwide headquarters. “Brussels is a great
place to run a global business — it’s the best centre for multi-lingual,
flexible and internationally minded people.”
And the future? Scabal is looking at all countries that
have opened up to imports and started to open up to
luxury products. “India and China are developing strongly,”
Gregor explains. “But we always try to maintain a good mix
internationally – it spreads the risk.”
Nigel Bishop
© Scabal