Can you tell us something about Scandia Gear?

Since 1974 Scandia Gear has specialized in creating apparel and PPE for the Maritime and Offshore industries. As an expert partner to our clients we ensure that their workforces are protected and well dressed. To us, these are inseparable qualities. This commitment to our clients has led to a product line defined by performance functionality and a reputation strengthened by market-oriented pricing and rapid product delivery from stock—we have offices and warehouses on three continents—without the involvement of third parties. If you need to outfit a maritime or offshore workforce, we have everything you need and can get it to you quickly. Our leading products include coveralls, gloves, immersion suits, footwear, galley wear, and equipment and apparel for extreme temperatures. Our operations are worldwide from Rotterdam, Singapore, and Houston. Scandia’s international character is grounded in what has always been a family business, with longstanding clients and a well-earned reputation built on unsurpassed product quality and service and, of course, trust.

Why did Scandia Gear choose to open an office in Texas?

Our core business is the maritime and offshore industries, so with Houston being the “oil and gas capital of the world” the decision was rather simple. Texas is central to the world’s global petroleum and energy industries. The number of companies headquartered here, specifically in Houston, and the number of related service companies in the state and region is astonishing. Additionally, Houston’s location makes our logistics to the east and west coasts, the Caribbean, and Central and South America that much simpler.

What kind of advice can you give to Dutch entrepreneurs who want to do business in Texas?

We are impressed with how direct everyone is, a welcome reminder of how we Dutch communicate. Business, as well, is rather straightforward. Doing business in Texas is really not different than doing business anywhere nationwide. The US is a dynamic, pro-business market with clearly defined rules and an openness to innovation. Once businesses decide they want what you are selling and that your pricing is favorable, they will not hesitate to buy.