The Schwab mail-order company was founded in 1954 by Friedrich Schwab and the Otto Group acquired a majority stake in the company in 1976. Today, the Schwab Group comprises full-range and specialist distance selling companies in nine countries.

Group companies’ distribution channels include traditional mail-order business, and also over-the-counter retail and, increasingly, the Internet. Schwab’s primary target group comprises women aged between 25 and 45, with a passion for fashionable, feminine clothing. Furthermore, the company provides extensive logistics services for the Otto Group from its facilities in Hanau.