The Business Times
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Beyond just suits, Benjamin Barker sells the concept of communities

The Singapore menswear brand has been moving into casual clothes

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Romaine Chan

Published Wed, Jun 4, 2025 · 10:00 AM
    • The brand has 15 stores islandwide, but will close two to arrive at a total of 13, which founder and CEO Nelson Yap considers a “sweet spot”.
    • The brand has 15 stores islandwide, but will close two to arrive at a total of 13, which founder and CEO Nelson Yap considers a “sweet spot”. PHOTO: YEN MENG JIN, BT

    [SINGAPORE] Having made a name for itself in classic suits, Singapore menswear brand Benjamin Barker has expanded into casual staples, and is building collections inspired by common interests.

    “The underlying thing is, men bond together with interest groups. Like soccer, all the guys get together, so that’s where you see communities like that (come) together,” said Nelson Yap, the founder and chief executive officer of Benjamin Barker.

    Such interests – music, sports and cars – are the inspiration behind the collections in the Benjamin Barker Recreational Club (BBRC) series, launched at the end of 2023. These offer sports-inspired menswear, with more breathable and lightweight pieces.

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