Monbento

Overview

Monbento is a French brand specializing in reusable lunch boxes, bento-style containers, bottles, and accessories inspired by Japanese meal boxes. It focuses on premium, eco-responsible products made with quality materials to reduce disposable plastic use and food waste. The brand operates internationally, with presence in over 50 countries and subsidiaries in New York, Hong Kong, and Shanghai.¹²⁶

History

Founded in 2009 by Emilie Creuzieux and Fabien Marret in Clermont-Ferrand, France, after Creuzieux discovered Japanese bento boxes during home visits. The company grew from €0.1m to €6.5m turnover by 2018, selling over 2 million boxes from 2010-2018, with support from Newfund Capital. It later partnered with Peugeot Frères Industrie to enhance internationalization, product development, and design.¹²

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Headquarters and warehouse are in Clermont-Ferrand, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France, where creative, marketing, sales, and support teams operate. Best-selling lunch boxes are manufactured in France and locally in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region for lightweight, resistant products. Some operations and workforce were historically in China.¹²

Notable Products

• MB Original Bento Box - Classic two-compartment Japanese-inspired lunch box in colorful, designer materials.
• MB Square Bento Box - Square-shaped container for office or school meals with modular dividers.
• Mioka Snack Box - Compact box for snacks suitable for children or on-the-go use.
• Isothermal Bottles - Reusable bottles for hot or cold drinks with elegant design.
• Cutlery Sets - Matching stainless steel or BPA-free utensils for bento meals.

Reputation

Monbento is perceived positively by users for its practical, stylish, and eco-friendly products that promote reduced plastic waste, with strong appeal in Europe and Asia via social networks. Professionals note its premium positioning and growth through partnerships like Peugeot. Some sources indicate modest scale with 21-50 employees and varying revenue estimates.¹³⁴