Bata to open global design centre in Amsterdam
Bata Group plans to open BataWorks, a global product, brand and design centre in Amsterdam's Schinkel District, in the first quarter of 2027.
The centre will lead product and brand development for Bata and North Star, covering footwear, apparel and bags. The initiative forms part of the group's wider strategy to strengthen its global brands and product development capabilities.
Bata Group chief executive, Panos Mytaros, has linked the development to the company's Re-ignite strategy, which aims to support the next phase of its international growth. The Amsterdam centre is intended to bring together creative talent and develop products for the group's brands, working with regional teams to incorporate local consumer insights into global product development.
Bata is recruiting for the new centre, including design directors for both brands, as well as product and material designers.
The development follows the appointment of Noemi Elmaleh as President of Bata on September 1, 2026. Based in Amsterdam, Ms Elmaleh has previous experience with Calvin Klein, Nike, adidas and Foot Locker.
Bata has not disclosed the planned workforce or investment value for the new centre.
