Rob Schalker

About Rob Schalker

Multi-entrepreneur Rob Schalker has over 30 years of experience in retail, brand development, and communication (storytelling). He is the owner/founder of the 360c-fashion lifestyle concept A fish named Fred, with which he is active worldwide. Currently, the colorful and distinctive designs of this unconventional fish are worn by men in 35 countries who are not afraid to take the stage.

Be Proud, Stand Out. That is the claim that A fish named Fred makes. Rob started his concept in 2011, which is strongly based on storytelling. His team and he get out of bed every day with full conviction to make the world brighter, more colorful, and above all, more humorous. Rob knows how to seek connections through collaborations where others do not see them. The original prints of A fish named Fred can be found not only on clothing but also on ski helmets, canned fish, beer bottles, cat food, orchid pots, rugs, and garden cushions.

When you step into the HQ, or as they like to call it, the aquarium of A fish named Fred, you can feel the creative vibe that permeates every fiber. The contemporary vision on personnel policy and company culture has resulted in a loyal and creative team that is now well-versed in ‘out of the bowl’ thinking.

Rob’s vision on entrepreneurship and internationalization has – notably during the pandemic – led to 26 branded corners in multi-brand stores in Germany, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. In 2021, the flagship store in the prestigious Mall of the Netherlands was nominated for the Best Retail Experience Awards. And know this: Rob refuses to call himself a ‘fashion man.’ He considers himself a ‘marketing man who sees connections in business everywhere, a cross between a concept developer and an entrepreneur.’

During his presentations, Rob takes you through his working life in his own unique way, the key to success, but also the factor of luck. Rob can zoom in on retail then, now, and in the future (also internationally), merchandising, lessons in brand development, the sacred belief in storytelling, and creating a suitable company culture.