1840

Our story begins when Rocco Franzi moves his workshop to Milan and opens, near the Duomo, a small store specialized in the production of fine trunks and suitcases.

Rocco  comes from a family of craftsmen, who first worked in carpentry and then built trunks. The industrial revolution, together with the development of the service and transportation sectors, represent a business opportunity that prompts Rocco to move his business to the capital of Lombardy, Milano, in Via Arcivescovado, near the Duomo.

Amongst his most loved creations stands out the "Leggerissimo" trunk, symbol of Franzi's innovative spirit.

Conceived to reduce the total weight of travellers' luggage, the trunk allows a considerable reduction in transportation fees, guaranteeing solidity and durability over time. This trunk receives numerous awards, both nationally and internationally, and determines Franzi's initial success.​

1864

Felice Franzi, Rocco's ambitious son, officially establishes the “Valigeria Franzi” in the luxurious Via Manzoni.

Felice's passion and dedication allow Franzi to guarantee the highest level of quality materials, craftsmanship and solid structures to withstand long journeys.​

Inspired by the refined products of the more established European competitors, Franzi hires the most experienced French and Austrian craftsmen and imports modern tannery techniques from Germany, thus creating the first Italian luxury leather goods district.​

Valigeria Franzi, Original Catalogue from 1909

The rapid growth of the business, supported by the success of the famous "Franzi suitcase", leads Felice to open a proper factory, not only for the production of suitcases and trunks, but for all kinds of leather goods.​

1887

Felice Franzi, in recognition of his successes, is appointed Knight of the Italian Crown and in 1878 Officer of the Italian Crown.​

Felice Franzi - Founder of “Valigeria Franzi”

Felice brings Franzi to serve the Royal Houses of His Majesty Vittorio Emanuele II, His Royal Majesty Prince Umberto, Queen Margherita, the Royal Prince of Naples, His Royal Majesty the Duke of Aosta, the Count of Turin and the Duke of Abruzzi. e onorificenze della Valigeria Franzi​

Franzi’s medals and awards

1900

Franzi charms Paris during the Universal Exhibition of 1900.​

Franzi takes part in several National and International Exhibitions, receiving numerous medals and awards.

In particular, at the Paris Exhibition of 1900, the brand receives a gold and a silver medal, confirming its superiority over other European brands.​

1905

Following the success of the Milan store, Franzi expands its dream and its network of stores beyond the Alps.​

Expanding the boundaries of luxury, Franzi becomes the first manufacturer with an international sales network.

Franzi opens outlets not only on the Italian territory, but also in London and Vienna.

Franz Joseph I, Emperor of Austria

Franzi thus becomes the most aristocratic brand in the world, official supplier to 4 Royal Houses.​

1912

Oreste Franzi, son of Felice and grandson of Rocco, founds "Conceria Monzese"

Thanks to his travels to Asia and long stays in China and Japan, Oreste discovers innovative carpentry and leather tanning techniques.

The "Conceria Monzese" becomes one of the first factories in Europe to produce leather treated with plant-based agents, embracing the theme of sustainability as early as the beginning of the 20th century.

1926

Oreste embarks on a new adventure by founding the "Società Anonima Fabbrica Italiana Bottiglie Isolanti"​

1920 - 1930

Franzi becomes one of the brands appreciated by the international jet set for its refined creations.​

1943

World War II also hits the Franzi Company severely.

1946

Franzi participates in the Reconstruction of Italy and commissions the architect Carlo De Carli to design the new store in Milan.

Milan's emerging design culture and Franzi's tradition cross and the result is an innovative and avant-garde space.​

1950

The recovery of the brand is supported by the opening of a new imposing factory in Affori, in the outskirts of Milan.

1967

Franzi works more and more closely with the automobile and design industries.

The Nappa leather produced at Conceria Monzese and used for the interiors designed by Arflex and De Padova. An extremely soft and elastic leather, suitable for furniture with down filling.​

With the brilliant creative spirit of the famous architect and designer Cini Boeri, a new office briefcase is born.

ABS Partner – MoMA, New York

1980 - 1990

The business operations of the Franzi brand gradually diminished in favor of work as a producer of leather and packaging for third parties, until the closure of the last production facility in 1998.

2021

The rebirth of Franzi opens a new chapter in the history of Italian leather goods.

Stayingtrue to traditional values of craftsmanship and quality, Franzi redefines the concept of "Made in Italy" luxury.

Created with noble materials by skilled hands, yet designed to be functional and modern, Franzi luxury caters to the most discerning consumers.

Exquisite elegance, innovation, and exclusivity bring Franzi's creations to life, carefully designed and crafted to meet the needs of the contemporary woman.