Gescova
The story of Gescova began almost half a century ago in 1977, when Bernard Gesquiére embarked on his entrepreneurial journey at the age of 19. Hailing from a traditional Belgian flax family, the enterprise initially operated under the name Golden River, a tribute to the river Lys, which had long been the lifeblood of the flax industry in the region. Fabric and design soon became the cornerstone of the Gesquière family’s legacy.
In 1982, the Atelier was established. Initially specializing in garden cushions, Bernard sourced fabrics from the heart of Europe’s textile industry. With his keen attention to detail and a discerning eye for quality, supported by his wife Grietje’s astute judgment, early success ensued. Inspired by this momentum, the couple founded their own Atelier, where a team of approximately 10 seamstresses meticulously crafted pillows by hand—a craft passed down from generation to generation in the local community.
By 1990, burgeoning sales and production necessitated the establishment of a strong brand identity. Thus, GESCOVA was born, broadening its product range from cushions to encompass garden furniture and parasols. This marked the beginning of an era dedicated to offering compelling commercial and Belgian-designed outdoor solutions through a network of stores nationwide.
In 1995, as consumer preferences evolved, Gescova adeptly responded to the shift towards outdoor living. Recognizing the desire for indoor comfort extended to outdoor spaces, the terrace became an extension of the home. This newfound appreciation for Belgian design coincided with the emergence of innovative materials worldwide, notably teak wood from Indonesia, which became a prominent feature in Gescova’s offerings.
The dawn of the new millennium saw the entry of the next generation—beginning with Frederik, followed by Thomas and Sammy—infusing the company with fresh ideas and ambitious visions. Extensive global travels provided inspiration, facilitating informed material choices and exclusive collaborations with experts and suppliers worldwide.
In 2008, Gescova expanded its horizons beyond Belgium, showcasing its furniture at international fairs and appointing foreign agents to propel its growth as an international outdoor brand. The ambition to be active in 20 countries underscored the ethos of collaborative success, viewing agents and distributors as integral members of the Gescova family.
In 2010, Gescova remained steadfast in its commitment to its origins by acquiring the 25,000 m² textile factory Plush at Wevelgem airport. This strategic move not only facilitated the brand’s expansion but also underscored the importance of logistics in ensuring optimal accessibility for customers across Europe.
By 2018, Gescova embraced the digital age while retaining the essence of tactile experiences. The brand’s online presence and social media engagement complemented the development of a European network of showrooms, allowing customers to experience the products firsthand.
As of 2024, Gescova stands as a formidable brand, leveraging its Belgian textile heritage and five decades of experience to create indoor-like outdoor experiences with high-quality furniture. Through an international network of customers and selected suppliers, Gescova continues to champion outdoor happiness, poised to spread its unique blend of Belgian-designed joy across Europe.
