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Discover where a brand or product originates

Bench shoes

ownerApparel Brands Europe GmbH (Germany)
originUnited Kingdom
manufacturedmultipleCountries

Bench is a global lifestyle brand with a dual heritage. The logo in the image represents the British-born streetwear label, which originated in Manchester, England, in 1989. Founded by Nayef Marar and Barrie Suddons, the brand initially focused on skate and BMX culture, gaining fame for its graphic t-shirts and functional urban wear. Over the decades, it evolved into a worldwide name known for its 'active-inspired' clothing and footwear.

Following financial restructuring in 2018, the brand's global intellectual property was acquired by the investment firm Gordon Brothers. In 2020, the European license and rights were secured by Apparel Brands Limited (ABL), which was subsequently acquired in 2023 by the London-based investment firm True Capital. Under True Capital's ownership, the brand continues to focus on its urban heritage through multi-channel retail and global licensing. Manufacturing for Bench footwear typically takes place across various hubs in Southeast Asia and parts of Eastern Europe to maintain scale and distribution.

Notably, there is a separate entity of the same name (Bench/) based in the Philippines and owned by Suyen Corporation. While that brand also sells apparel and footwear, the 'Bench.' logo seen here belongs to the original British lineage managed by the UK/European licensees.

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