Rimowa
ActiveOverview
Rimowa produces premium aluminum and polycarbonate luggage, backpacks, and bags known for lightweight construction and durability. Positioned in the luxury travel goods market, it serves frequent travelers and professionals with products emphasizing craftsmanship and innovation. Notable for pioneering grooved aluminum suitcases in the 1920s and polycarbonate cases in 2000, influencing industry standards.
History
Founded in 1898 by Paul Morszeck in Cologne, Germany, as a saddlery workshop crafting custom suitcases from leather-coated plywood. In the 1920s, son Richard Morszeck introduced aluminum grooved suitcases inspired by aviation. Third-generation leader Dieter Morszeck expanded globally, entering Japan in 1979, launching polycarbonate in 2000, and joining LVMH Group in 2017.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Original (aluminum suitcases) | Iconic grooved aluminum for premium travel | $1000 - $3000 |
| Essential (polycarbonate suitcases) | Lightweight hard-shell for everyday durability | $600 - $1500 |
| Hybrid (aluminum-polycarbonate suitcases) | Blend of strength and lightness for versatile use | $800 - $2000 |
| Backstage (garment bags and organizers) | Professional transport for clothing and accessories | $400 - $1200 |
| Backpacks (travel and daily backpacks) | Functional mobility for urban and trip use | $400 - $900 |
| Cabin (carry-on luggage) | Compact sizes for air travel compliance | $500 - $1400 |
Manufacturing
Products are manufactured in advanced facilities in Germany using aluminum, polycarbonate, and other premium materials. The company combines traditional craftsmanship with precision technology. Some production occurs worldwide to support global operations.
Notable Products
- Original Cabin - Grooved aluminum carry-on suitcase, aviation-inspired design classic.
- Essential Check-In L - Large polycarbonate suitcase offering high impact resistance.
- Hybrid Cabin - Soft-touch polycarbonate front with aluminum frame for balanced protection.
- Backpack Essential - Polycarbonate and fabric backpack for daily and travel needs.
- Never Still Trunk - Limited-edition aluminum trunk blending heritage and modern utility.
Reputation
Enthusiasts and professionals regard Rimowa for exceptional build quality, longevity, and iconic aluminum design trusted by frequent flyers. Strengths include innovative materials like polycarbonate that set durability benchmarks. Criticisms focus on high prices relative to functional alternatives and occasional reports of warranty service delays.