Marc Cain
Marc Cain GmbH · Germany
Marc Cain is a German premium womenswear brand founded by Helmut Schlotterer and based in Bodelshausen in Baden-Württemberg. Known for knitwear made at its headquarters, it sells internationally through own and franchise stores, retail partners and digital channels, and has been led by CEO Patric Spethmann since 2026.
| Founder | Helmut Schlotterer |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Bodelshausen, Germany |
| CEO | Patric Spethmann, since 2026 |
| Segment | Premium womenswear |
| Production | In house knitwear in Bodelshausen |
| Website | marc-cain.com |
What is Marc Cain?
Marc Cain is a premium fashion brand for women, known for colourful, feminine collections and a strong knitwear tradition. The company, Marc Cain GmbH, is based in Bodelshausen in Baden-Württemberg, where it still knits garments in house, promoting them as "Knitted in Germany".
History and leadership
The brand was founded by Helmut Schlotterer, who turned 80 in 2026, an occasion marked with a dinner during the Düsseldorf Fashion Days and a staff celebration in Bodelshausen. In June 2026 Patric Spethmann, previously chief operating officer at Marc O'Polo for seven years, became chief executive, with the stated aim of carrying the founder's legacy forward.
Products and positioning
Marc Cain offers complete womenswear collections, including knitwear, dresses, jackets, trousers, shoes and accessories, positioned in the premium segment. Seasonal collections are presented through digital fashion shows, such as the spring and summer 2027 show filmed at a sixteenth century villa in the Veneto.
Business model and distribution
The brand combines several channels internationally:
- Own stores and franchise stores, including a franchise store in Jinzhou, China, opened in 2026
- A first standalone store in Mexico City, opened in 2026
- A reorganised North American business covering the United States and Canada
- Wholesale through premium retailers and an own online shop
Recent marketing has included converting 100 black cabs in London, Manchester and Birmingham into mobile advertising and a pop up during Paris Fashion Week.
Marc Cain and technology
In 2026 Marc Cain launched its own app for iOS and Android in four languages, combining shopping with brand content, personalised styling and customer service. It has also introduced a cross channel, cross border loyalty card to strengthen customer retention.
Why it matters
Marc Cain is one of the few German womenswear brands with a substantial international franchise network and in house production in Germany. Its leadership transition from the founder era to a professional chief executive is closely watched in the German premium market.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Marc Cain?
Marc Cain was founded by the German entrepreneur Helmut Schlotterer, who turned 80 in 2026. The company is based in Bodelshausen in Baden-Württemberg.
Who is the CEO of Marc Cain?
Patric Spethmann became chief executive of Marc Cain in June 2026. He previously spent seven years as chief operating officer at Marc O'Polo.