Maria B. — Designer Brand with Export Growth
A pioneering designer label that grew from a small team into an international fashion house by leveraging SME partnerships.
Maria Butt, popularly known as Maria B., launched her fashion label in Lahore in the late 1990s with a small team and limited capital. Initially catering to a niche market, Maria B. gradually expanded into one of Pakistan’s largest designer labels, with outlets in major cities and an export presence in Europe, North America, and the Middle East.
Her business model relies on partnerships with SME textile producers—small embroidery units, fabric weavers, and dyeing houses. This integration with SMEs allowed Maria B. to scale without owning large factories, while simultaneously uplifting smaller enterprises.
Over time, the brand diversified into prêt-à-porter, couture, bridal, and accessories, becoming a one-stop destination for fashion consumers. Financially, Maria B. became a multimillion-dollar enterprise, with significant export revenues and strong domestic sales. Its success reflects how branding, design, and export orientation can transform a small business into a global player.
Innovation & Growth
The company also invests heavily in digital marketing and e-commerce, creating new export opportunities and reducing reliance on physical retail spaces.
Sector-wide Impact
Maria B.’s journey demonstrates how SME partnerships can scale into international recognition. For APPLA members, it shows how aligning with creative industries can open alternative growth avenues beyond commodity fabric exports.