OTB has joined forces with the Chalhoub Group to amplify its presence in the Middle East. The Italian fashion conglomerate, led by Renzo Rosso, has announced “a strategic joint venture to significantly expand the presence of OTB’s luxury brands in the region,” according to a statement. This partnership, with undisclosed share distribution details, includes the launch of 15 stores over the next five years.
These new stores will complete the existing Maison Margiela store in the Dubai Mall. The initiative will focus on key markets such as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, particularly within major shopping centers and concept stores.
“The aim is to create a dynamic and integrated retail network to bolster the presence of Jil Sander, Maison Margiela, and Marni in the Middle East through substantial investments. This includes opening new stores, enhancing each brand’s e-commerce platforms, and engaging in local marketing activities,” stated the Italian company, which also owns Viktor&Rolf, the denim label Diesel, and acquired a minority stake in the Californian brand Amiri in 2019. OTB also owns Brave Kid, specializing in children’s fashion, and Staff International, a production and distribution company managing its luxury houses and licensed brands such as Dsquared2.
For this significant phase of international expansion, the Italian group has chosen a leading regional player with extensive experience and a vast network. Chalhoub Group owns 10 brands and distributes over 450 international luxury, beauty, and lifestyle brands in the Middle East.
“This agreement is strategic for us and comes at an opportune moment for our brands, which are currently enjoying great visibility thanks to years of work focused on enhancing creativity and product quality,” said Renzo Rosso, founder and president of OTB, whose revenue reached 1.9 billion euros in 2023, an increase of 7.2%.
Chalhoub, in turn, is incorporating three new luxury and creative brands into its portfolio. “By working closely with OTB, we aim to extend the unique portfolio of iconic brands, Jil Sander, Maison Margiela, and Marni, to all countries in the Gulf region. Our focus will be to provide our clients with high-quality offerings, exceptional services, and personalized experiences across all sales channels,” declared Patrick Chalhoub, president of Chalhoub Group.