Bally

The brand

Bally was founded in Switzerland in 1851 by Carl Franz Bally. Carl Franz was trained in the family ribbon-making business and expanded his focus to shoe production after being inspired by the quality of the Parisian shoe-making tradition.

He dedicated his life to designing the perfect shoe, and to giving back to the community of Schönenwerd where his products were made. He was a champion of social projects; opening schools, parks, and swimming facilities for workers and townspeople. During his lifetime, Schönenwerd was transformed from a sleepy farming village into a bustling town making two million pairs of shoes annually.

Innovation has always been a part of the brand, in the 1960s it developed a series of new materials including rubber components in the boots worn by Neil Armstrong during mans' first walk on the moon.

The brand remains dedicated to a combination of rigorous Swiss craftsmanship, high quality, style, comfort and elegance which Carl Franz created.

The business

Bally operates 750 points of sale in 66 countries; split between retail, wholesale and franchise channels. It produces two collections a year, for both men and women. The Bally shoe business represents 50% of revenues, the rest is derived from accessories and ready-to-wear.

Since LABELUX acquired Bally from TPG in 2008, we have worked with Senior Management to optimise the structure of the organization, including a streamlining of the product development process. Under LABELUX, Bally is dedicated to defining and refining the brand to remain true to the passion of Carl Franz Bally and also to innovate for the future.

Bally's unique Swiss heritage is based on a commitment to leather craftsmanship, excellence and attention to detail, with the elements that define the refinement and exclusivity of Switzerland to the fore.