Two lions invest in Aarhus-based 3D tailoring startup: “It’s unique in the market”
An Aarhus-based startup that combines classic tailoring craftsmanship with 3D technology has secured an investment in the DR program Løvens Hule. The company Made To Fit receives DKK 500,000 from investors Lis Beck and Morten Larsen, who together receive 20 percent of the company.
“We make well-fitting tailored suits. But we will also offer customers a digital body profile that can be used across the entire wardrobe. One scan allows you to work on fit, materials and design without starting from scratch every time. This is unique in the market, and with the investment in Løvens Hule, we can now really accelerate the further development of this part of the business,” says Christian Lydersen, founder of Made To Fit.
The investment will be used to accelerate the company’s expansion in Denmark and internationally and develop a digital universe where customers’ body data can be used for tailored clothing across the entire wardrobe.
3D scanning replaces classic surveying
Made To Fit specializes in 3D scanning customers and producing suits with millimeter precision. The scan creates a digital body profile that can be saved and used again when the customer orders new clothes.
The company operates without expensive store locations and instead has showrooms in Hinnerup near Aarhus and Avedøre Holme in Copenhagen. Here, customers can book an appointment and get a scan, which forms the basis for the tailor-made suit.
The technology means that in 98 percent of cases, the suits do not require readjustment. At the same time, the more efficient process makes it possible to offer tailored clothing at prices significantly below the traditional market.
Digital wardrobe could be the next step
In the long term, the ambition is to expand the concept to far more than suits. Within the next few years, the company expects to launch a broader collection including jeans, dresses and t-shirts.
The plan is for customers to try on clothes virtually on their digital body profile and then have them produced to their exact measurements. According to the founder, this could be a significant change in how clothes are bought and designed.
Last year, the company’s two showrooms had a turnover of DKK 2.8 million and made a profit of DKK 900,000. This year, Made To Fit expects to double its turnover.
Mobile concept to make the model scalable
Part of the new capital will also be used to develop a mobile scanning offering. The company’s 3D scanners will be installed in a specially designed van that can be driven around to companies and events.
“This makes it possible to meet customers where they are – at large companies, law firms and consultancies or at selected padel centers around the country. This will help make our business model even more scalable,” says Christian Lydersen.
The company has already taken the first steps towards internationalization and has established a showroom in the Netherlands following the same model as the Danish one.
Investors see great potential
Investors believe that the combination of technology, tailored production and more sustainable consumption can create a strong business.
“A lot of men and women have a hard time finding rod clothing that actually fits. I’m a big believer in quality and durability instead of buying and throwing away again and again. In addition to the quality of the clothing, Made To Fit offers its products at an accessible price. This creates the basis for responsible consumption and production, and I see great scaling opportunities on both the men’s and women’s side – both at home and abroad,” says Lis Beck.
Co-investor Morten Larsen also points out that the technology can make a traditionally complex process much more efficient.
“Modern 3D technology makes it possible to standardize an otherwise complex process and opens up new customer segments where we can measure many suits extremely efficiently. This is the future of shopping, where you don’t compromise on what everyone wants: a classic tailored suit in high quality at a good price. And in the long term, a lot of other clothes besides suits. This makes it a good investor case,” says serial investor Morten Larsen.