Joseph Ribkoff: 70 Years Strong, Expanding Globally

0:00It's March 25, I'm Cory with the story, and this is Toronto News today, your AI-powered local news. Canadian fashion brand Joseph Rybkov is gearing up for its 70th anniversary next year, with big changes ahead. Founded in Montreal back in 1957, the company sells its women's apparel in 62 countries through more than 3,000-5, 100 retail partners. New President and Chief Executive Officer Stephen Belfer wants to ramp up its global reach, refresh the brand image, and dive into direct online sales. Plus, brick-and-mortar stores. The brand has built its success quietly on wholesale deals, especially with independent boutiques, and runs 42 showrooms worldwide. Europe drives about half its business, with strong sales in places like Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Spain. Belfer is pushing a digital first wholesale approach to help those smaller retailers with better inventory tools and quick ordering. Belfer joined last October and rose to the top role fast, bringing over a decade of

1:02experience growing a German fashion label across North America. Private equity backers are fueling this shift to make the brand more visible, especially in Canada, where it's flown under the radar, despite its scale. Key moves include launching an official e-commerce site starting in Europe, then North America, to connect directly with shoppers. They're also testing physical spots, like an airport store in Karen's Australia, and a flagship in Auckland, New Zealand, plus cruise ship sales. Wrinkle-resistant fabrics in a new sporty line, target travelers and younger buyers, all made mostly a Montreal for quality control. With manufacturing staying local amid supply chain headaches, Joseph Rukoff aims to blend its premium accessible luxury niche with fresh marketing, and partnerships like Nordstrom's online marketplace, setting up steady growth through its milestone year.