Regionality and sustainability are not just buzzwords naming trends—they have long been important topics for manufacturers of clothing and bags. When it comes to the sustainability of bags and backpacks, not only the materials used—such as recycled fibers—the timeless design, or durability matter, but also how and where they are made. In this article, we focus on products from our manufacturers that come from Europe.
Made in Europe means for customers:
-
Greater transparency about the composition
-
Design and quality of the goods
-
Short transport routes
-
Fair working and production conditions according to European standards
More and more buyers are asking where their everyday bag companions come from. Since 2020, an initiative has been committed to a “Made in EU” quality seal to make the benefits visible to customers. The goal of this initiative is solidarity for products from Europe. Our brands also embrace this. Here is an overview of the different approaches:
Mass production in Europe
Coccinelle and Bric’s manufacture series in Italy and Bulgaria. For example, Coccinelle’s Maelody, Collette, Estelle, and Arlettis lines are produced there. Bric’s produces all bags in the Firenze and Life series—except for the trolleys—in Italy.
Production in Italy
Campomaggi uses the finest Italian cowhide leather to craft bags, backpacks, and other accessories for women and men, with a distinctive hallmark: visible handmade work, such as braiding and rivet detailing. The Bridge also follows the tradition of craftsmanship, creating unique premium bags made of soft, lively leather with a fine sheen and a distinctive look. Brooks England, known for its bicycle saddles, also produces its bike bags and backpacks exclusively in Italy.
Commitment to Germany as a Location
The brand Vaude also sets a good example and has been producing climate-neutral products since 2012. The goal is to achieve complete climate neutrality throughout the company in the future. In product manufacturing, Vaude guarantees the use of sustainable materials such as recycled PET plastic bottles or recycled polyester to save resources, commits to Germany as a location, and produces many lines in Tettnang at its headquarters. Picard also manufactures its Berlin series in Germany.
Made in Germany
Sustainability has become almost standard among outdoor brands. This makes sense because they want to actively accompany people in nature—and if nature is threatened, the manufacturer loses its foundation as well. Ortlieb, as one of the pioneering outdoor brands, has firmly anchored mindful interaction with nature and the environment in its mission statement. The company continuously works to optimize its carbon footprint and ecological balance while producing highly functional and durable products “Made in Germany.”
Long-standing Partnerships
abro focuses on durable quality and straightforward functionality, and for over 40 years, it has had Italian leather processed in family-run workshops in Italy and Romania. The same goes for Furla. The Italian label has established itself as one of the world’s leading fashion and lifestyle brands, combining artisanal heritage with innovative know-how and state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques. Stylistically, Furla ranges between minimalism and avant-garde. Another example is Secrid, which produces its beloved accessories like wallets and cardholders in the Netherlands.
Materials from Europe Sewn in Hamburg
360Grad initially worked exclusively with recycled sailcloth, known for its water and tear resistance combined with low weight, making it ideal for processing into bags. Later, tarpaulin (a coated fabric formerly used to protect loading hatches from spray) and hand-tanned leather from Europe were added to 360Grad’s workshops. Today, the range includes unmistakable shoulder bags and courier bags as well as shoppers, backpacks, travel bags, and other accessories. All are sewn in Hamburg.
We definitely love the “Made in Europe” bags and backpacks from our manufacturers and are proud to offer you products that are not only stylish but also sustainably and responsibly made.
