The Batela story began in the picturesque coastal town of San Sebastian in the Basque Country. Founded by local gift store proprietors Ane and Eneko, the journey began in 1991 with a single raincoat. Faced with the challenge of inconsistent supply, they chose self-reliance, sourcing directly from a raincoat manufacturer to offer this popular item to other merchants.

The enthusiastic response to the raincoat quickly propelled Batela's growth. Additional apparel items joined the repertoire and met with an overwhelmingly positive response. Buoyed by this success, Ane and Eneko diversified further, introducing home decorative products in 1996. As the product range grew, it became evident that they had a thriving enterprise, and the company was christened "Batela."

The name "Batela" carries cultural significance, referencing the traditional fishing boats used in the coastal waters of the Basque Country. Crafted for the art of fishing, they embody the local fishing heritage, central to their livelihood and traditions. Naming the company, Batela was a clear nod toward its roots and inspiration drawn from the coastal surroundings.