Jaco Flach began his shoe career in 2008. Before that, he worked at places like ’t Haantje, Diesel, and Mexx, where he was introduced to the shoe industry. Even though he had never set foot inside a shoe factory, he decided to break open his piggy bank and start his own shoe brand. He designed and sold his first collections from home. In 2011, he moved his operations to the ’s-Gravenzandseweg in Wateringen. In 2014, part of REHAB became part of a large shoe group. When that company went bankrupt ten years later—partly due to the impact of COVID—Flach quickly made a fresh start. Since February 2024, REHAB has been fully independent again.
Production in Portugal
“REHAB is a brand for the fashion-conscious man,” says Jaco Flach. “In the early years, we mainly focused on classic men’s shoes with a playful twist. Now that style has moved a bit to the background, and we focus more on sneakers and other casual shoes. But we have a broad collection: from dress shoes to slippers. There’s a REHAB shoe for every occasion.”
The shoes Flach designs are all produced in Felgueiras, Portugal. He deliberately chooses European production: “The communication lines are short, the quality is high, and it’s affordable. Plus, it’s great that the shoes don’t spend weeks in transit like they would if made in places like China. We work with skilled craftsmen in Portugal whom we know inside and out—and you can see that in the finish of every shoe.”
French Bistro in a Monumental Building
Designer Flach explains that, especially after the relaunch of his company, he wanted to have a space of his own. Co-owner Dennis Beekhuizen pointed him to the historic gas holder in Naaldwijk. “We scheduled a viewing and were immediately enthusiastic. That same evening we made an offer, and the next day it was a done deal.” REHAB’s new home is getting quite a makeover. Studio F translated all the ideas into realistic 3D renderings, showing how the reception area on the ground floor will take on the atmosphere of a French bistro. “It’s going to be an amazing space,” Flach says with excitement. “A beautiful place to welcome suppliers and retailers.” Still, not every room needs a complete transformation. It quickly became clear, for example, that the existing shelves meant for binders are perfect for displaying shoes. “Funny, right?”
Recognizable Style
The new building gives REHAB about 100 square meters more space than the previous location in Wateringen—plenty of room for the eight team members. Within the team, Jaco is the sole designer. “That’s really the most fun part of the job. I never run out of inspiration. A new collection always builds on the previous one; you keep what works and develop what can be improved or refined. Of course, I also keep an eye on what other brands are doing and what trends are emerging. The key is to translate that into our own, recognizable style—and we’re doing that very well.” With the new location in Naaldwijk and a strong focus on that distinct style, Flach looks to the future of REHAB with confidence.
Curious about the latest REHAB Footwear collection? Visit showroom 620 on level 3 @ CAST starting July 1, 2025.
VIEW REHAB FOOTWEAR
Source: batenburg-bhv.nl
