Van Tilburg Mode & Sport, the Netherlands’ largest fashion department store, continues to thrive despite challenges facing the retail industry. The family-owned business, located in Nistelrode, North Brabant, is known for its exceptional service and extensive selection.
Founded in 1950, Van Tilburg Mode & Sport has become a household name in the region. The store spans five buildings, offering 15,000 square meters of clothing and shoes. The company projects a turnover of 100 million euros and 750,000 customers in 2024.
Experts attribute the store’s success to its focus on customer service and convenience. Unlike many struggling clothing stores, Van Tilburg Mode & Sport provides free parking, complimentary coffee, and a high ratio of employees to customers.
The store offers personalized shopping experiences, including personal shoppers who guide customers through the store and a workshop for clothing alterations. This level of service appeals to a broad customer base, primarily Brabant residents aged 50 and older, who value convenience and personal attention.
The Van Tilburg family emphasizes a modest approach to business, focusing on gradual expansion and avoiding unnecessary risks. Brothers Paul and Matthijs van Tilburg, who now lead the company, returned to the family business after pursuing studies and careers elsewhere.
The store’s unique features, such as a chain system for transporting clothes to the workshop and employees with decades of experience, contribute to its familiar and welcoming atmosphere. This combination of tradition and service resonates with customers seeking a hassle-free shopping experience.