Portrait of Brian Fichtner.

With over two decades of experience in design retail, I’ve worked across the full spectrum of the industry—from curating retail product assortments to co-founding and growing an international DTC brand.

Today, I advise both retailers and producers on how to strengthen their positioning, refine their offerings, and build meaningful, lasting customer experiences.


What I’ve done

2015 - 2025

Norlan

Brand Director | Co-Founder

During my tenure I helped guide Norlan from a Kickstarter success into an international DTC brand for whisky enthusiasts—leading product and packaging development, creative direction on marketing assets, and brand communications.


2014 - 2015

Freunde von Freunden

Director of E-Commerce

At Freunde von Freunden, I launched the magazine’s online store and led the concept/execution of their holiday pop-up shop—creating curated retail experiences that extended the stories and aesthetics of its global creative community.


2011 - 2014

Ghostly International

Retail Director

I led the evolution of Ghostly’s online store from a record label storefront into a broader platform for design-driven products and artist collaborations. I developed key partnerships, curated limited editions, and helped launch Ghostly International Editions—a print series celebrating the label’s visual identity.


2008 - 2011

Shop at Cooper-Hewitt

Product Manager

I helped curate and manage the Smithsonian Design Museum’s shop product assortment, working closely with the retail directors to align product offerings with the museum’s design mission. I also oversaw e-commerce content and in-store merchandising to support both visibility and sales.


2004 - 2008

MOSS

Sales Director

I was part of the team at MOSS during its peak as one of the world’s leading design stores—driving sales of iconic product lines and works by emerging design stars. This role laid the foundation for my later work in product curation and brand development.