The luggage market - France

The luggage market, which is part of the wider leather goods and travel goods sector, has been growing, thanks in particular to Asian markets, including the significant influence of China. In 2020, the global luggage market continues its upward trajectory, with an expected CAGR of 8.4% between 2012 and 2021. Online sales are increasing, although physical stores, particularly specialist retailers, still dominate.

This growth coincides with the increase in the number of French travellers, who numbered 5 million. In terms of market structure, the French market is characterized by concentration around a few major players such as Louis Vuitton, and companies like Samsonite and Delsey, which also have a strong global presence.

Analysis of the French luggage market: the trend towards 'Made in France' and changing purchasing behaviour

These companies often outsource their production, mainly to Asian countries. At the same time, the "Made in France" trend is attracting the interest of customers, who are prepared to pay more to support jobs and national businesses. The luggage manufacturing process prioritizes lightness, durability and design, which are essential to meet airline regulations and consumer preferences for a variety of luggage items.as we explore the French luggage market, we see steady growth and changing consumer preferences.

While the global context reflects an expansion driven largely by Asia, the French market, in particular, shows a slight but perceptible progression. According to industry data, the French luggage market has been estimated at around 4.4 billion euros in recent periods, maintaining growth of 3% in value terms. Looking at the behavior of French consumers, around 66% of those aged 15 and over have taken a leisure vacation, with a predilection for short breaks, which have risen from 52.5% to 57.2% of travelers in the space of a few years.

The influence on luggage purchasing trends is significant, as short breaks require different types of luggage from longer vacations. In addition, France's strong track record in attracting foreign tourists, with over 89 million visitors, further strengthens the market, given that a third of these tourists engage in shopping activities during their stay.

As far as e-commerce is concerned, French customers are increasingly comfortable shopping online, which is evident in the fast-growing Internet retail segment for luggage and travel accessories. Notably, a good proportion of French shoppers are turning to products labeled "Made in France", and some 66% are willing to pay a premium for products made in the country. This nationalist sentiment correlates with consumer age, revealing a generational divide in purchasing behavior.

Mapping the market structure, it's clear that the industry is relatively concentrated, with a few luxury heavyweights and specialist brands such as Samsonite, Delsey, Louis Vuitton and Longchamp leaving a considerable footprint. Interestingly, while the market is segmented into various product categories, from suitcases to backpacks and business bags, production is increasingly outsourced, particularly to Asian countries, suggesting a global supply chain.

Specialized stores dominate distribution in France, accounting for more than half the market, although internet sales are gradually taking on a larger role, estimated at around 5.2% and rising to 7.1% over a six-year forecast. This trend bears witness to the dynamism of the market and the strategic importance of omnichannel distribution for the players involved.

As far as prices are concerned, a seasonal trend can be observed, with prices peaking during the vacation periods, before declining thereafter. For example, luggage prices tend to rise at the end of the year, only to fall again in January. This cycle represents both an opportunity and a challenge.

Key players in the luggage market landscape

The luggage market is driven by a choice of brands, each carving out a niche thanks to distinctive offers and strategic positioning.

• Samsonite, an iconic brand synonymous with durable, innovative luggage. This global giant has strengthened its presence by acquiring other influential names, including American Tourister, expanding its formidable portfolio of travel solutions.
• Kipling, renowned for infusing a sense of fun and adventure into its range of bags and accessories, known for their lightweight materials and mischievous monkey mascot. Their approach to branding and design has won them a loyal following among young and old alike.
• Bentley's commitment to high-quality travel gear has become a mainstay for consumers looking for reliability and style. Its diverse collection has something to offer every traveler and meets the changing needs of a dynamic consumer base.
• Delsey stands out for its commitment to fusing French elegance with innovative features. With aesthetics and functionality as cornerstones, Delsey has cultivated a refined image that resonates with both budget-conscious and upscale travelers.
• Lipault enters the scene as the embodiment of Parisian chic, bringing a touch of color and sophistication to luggage sets that appeal to a fashion-forward clientele. Their bold designs challenge the monochrome norm, proving that practicality and style can coexist.
• Tekmi and Snowball, while not boasting sales as colossal as their international counterparts, bring their own unique touch to the market. Tekmi focuses on providing sustainable travel solutions with a modern twist, while Snowball caters to the budget-conscious traveler without compromising on quality or style.
• Jump stands out for its dedication to craftsmanship and detail in luggage design, capturing the essence of French art. Its products reflect the confluence of tradition and innovation, appealing to those who appreciate luggage as both a ceremonial piece and a travel companion.
• Longchamp extends to its famous Le Pliage collection and beyond, offering high-end travel goods that are as prestigious as they are practical. Lancel, another luxury outfitter, continues to enchant with its exquisite creations, coveted by those who aspire to combine travel and haute couture.

Each of these companies, with its unique profile and strategic market position, makes a distinct contribution to the dynamic and ever-evolving luggage market, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of travellers the world over.

Inforamtion

• Number of pages : 30 pages
• Format : Digital and PDF versions
• Last update : 15/09/2023

Summary and extracts

List of charts

• Market share of leading luxury leather brands
• Projected leather sales
• Size of the global luggage market
• Breakdown of French leather goods production
• Estimated market size for the manufacture of travel goods, leather goods and saddlery
• Estimated size of the leather goods and travel goods retail market
• Number of tourist arrivals in France per year
• Annual departures of French tourists
• French domestic tourism
• Periodicity of the sales index for the leather goods and travel goods trade
• Frequency of searches for "luggage" on Google
• Frequency of searches for "valises" on Google
• Comparing the ratings of 3 luggage manufacturers
• Comparison of 3 brand ratings by age category
• Comparison of the 3 brands' level of appreciation according to CSP
• Number of establishments in the travel goods, leather goods and saddlery production sector
• Number of employees in the travel goods, leather goods and saddlery production sector
• Number of establishments in leather goods and travel goods retailing
• Number of employees in leather goods and travel goods retailing
• Number of companies by number of employees
• Number of employees by company size
• Growing market share for low-cost airlines
• French imports of trunks and suitcases by value
• French imports of trunks, suitcases and carrying cases by volume
• French exports of trunks and suitcases by value
• French exports of trunks, suitcases and carrying cases by volume
• Main supplier countries by value
• Main supplier countries by volume
• Main purchasing countries by value
• Main buyer countries by volume