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EK Fashion Launches “Slater” Expansion at EK LIVE fair

Successful Dutch menswear basics brand set to enter the D-A-CH region

Bielefeld, September 8, 2025 – In the Netherlands, the name Slater is synonymous with high quality, perfect fit, and consistent implementation of key CSR guidelines. The premium men’s basics brand is represented in 750 retail locations there and is now preparing to conquer the D-A-CH region. Driving this expansion is EK Fashion. The European multi-sector group added Slater to its portfolio in 2023 through the acquisition of Dutch fashion manufacturer MJL Investments BV and will present the label for the first time at EK LIVE (September 17–19, 2025).

“From the very beginning, our goal was not only to secure Slater’s strong market position for the long term but also to expand it further. That’s why we’re bringing this successful brand for high-quality T-shirts and boxer shorts into new markets. At EK LIVE, our retail partners from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland will have the opportunity to experience the great potential of this private label,” says Thomas Schwab, Head of Sales D-A-CH for EK Fashion, outlining the direction.

Slater – Successful for Good Reasons
The Slater brand was created back in 1988 and has consistently focused on sustainability. The high-quality men’s basics are made from BCI (Better Cotton Initiative) yarns and dyed in an environmentally friendly way according to OEKO-TEX® standards.
All shirts are produced in Slater’s own factory in Bangladesh, which is certified according to BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative) guidelines.

The collections range from the classic “American T-shirt” to modern, tailored styles, stretch models with 95% organic cotton content, and sporty, robust versions in heavy 1×1 rib quality made from pure organic cotton. Breathable, temperature-regulating T-shirts made from cellulose fibers complete the range.

Perfect Conditions for a Strong Start!
To optimally support the market entry in the D-A-CH countries, the EK Fashion team has prepared an exclusive launch promotion at EK LIVE. “Retail partners who place orders directly at the trade fair or during the following week will benefit from very attractive conditions. And as a special extra, the first 50 customers will receive a high-quality Slater display for their store,” says Geke van Hardeveld, Manager Private Label & Wholesale at EK Fashion, looking forward to welcoming many interested retailers in Hall 1.a of the EK Exhibition Center.

EK LIVE Autumn Trade Fair 2025 in Bielefeld
September 17–19, 2025 – on-site + digital

Wednesday, 17.09., 09:00–18:00
Thursday, 18.09., 09:00–18:00
Friday, 19.09., 09:00–15:00

Register at www.ek-messen.de


Image Captions:
The Slater collection: From classic American T-shirts to modern tailored styles and breathable stretch variants. Premium men’s basics for every style.
Slater showcases its full range at EK LIVE 2025: Boxer shorts, T-shirts in 1×1 rib quality, stretch and organic cotton versions for the modern man.

Contact EK Retail:
Paul Spieker
Corporate Marketing and Communications Manager
Phone: +49 521 2092200
Email: p.spieker@ek-retail.com