Kipling (brand)
Kipling is a Belgian fashion brand founded in 1987 in the heart of the fashion capital, Antwerp (Belgium). Kipling brand is part of VF Corporation since 2004. They are most famous for their crinkle nylon fabric and monkey key chain. Kipling sells handbags, backpacks, totes, luggage and accessories.
 | |
| Industry | Retail, Fashion |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1987 in Antwerp, Belgium |
| Headquarters | Antwerp |
Area served | Worldwide |
| Products | Bags, Luggage, Accessories, Totes |
| Parent | VF Corporation (2004–present) |
| Website | Kipling.com |
Today Kipling’s well-known bags and accessories are available around the world in 436 stores in 80 countries and can be found in more than 7500 shops, and kipling.com.
Detailed history
Founding
Kipling was founded in 1987 in Antwerp, Belgium.
Timeline
- 1986: The original founders of Kipling decided to create a new bags company in Antwerp, Belgium.
- 1989: Kipling goes to North America and Japan.
- 1993: Kipling goes to Central America.
- 2004: Kipling joins the portfolio of VF.
Brand
By injecting creativity and out-of-the-box thinking into developing thoughtful designs with a casual coolness, Kipling products are created to inspire mobility and enable you to Live. Light. As more than a bag brand, Kipling represents a positive outlook on life, a light-hearted mentality, free spirit, and inclusivity.
The monkey key-hanger is usually associated to Kipling brand. Every Kipling bag comes with a monkey key-hanger. Originally, there was only one type of monkey, which could be easily recognized by its shape and characteristic colored fur. Since Kipling has developed several collections representing several styles, the monkey evolved as well. Now each collection corresponds to a type of monkey.
The original furry monkeys from Kipling brand have a label with a name on it. The different names come from Kipling employees all over the world. Each name corresponds to a color.
VF Corporation
Kipling is part of the "sportswear" group of VF Corporation.
Ownership and shareholding
- 1987 January: Kipling company was founded in Antwerp, Belgium
- 1992: The original founders sold the Kipling company to a private owner
- 1999: Kipling sold to Swiss bank UBS Capital
- 2002: Kipling re-purchased by the private owner
- 2004: Kipling purchased by VF Corporation[1]