Longchamp

Historical brand of leather goods founded between the two wars by the Frenchman, Jean Cassegrain, who had a small shop of articles for smokers. One of his products was a pipe called Lonchamp; one day in 1948 he had the idea to wrap it in leather, and this was the start of his entry in the leather goods’ trade. About ten years later, his success allowed him to set up a real factory in Segré (Maine-et-Loire), which still manufactures kidskin cases and, since 1970, a luggage line in nylon and leather. In 1993 the company launched the bag Le Pliage, made of washable nylon, with leather handles and a large choice of colors. Over a period of ten years, the company sold 5 million pieces. The founder was succeeded by his son Philippe, whose daughter Sophie and Isabelle Guyon are the designers. The company employs 1,200 people and exports to 70 countries.