Rondinaud Charentaise sneakers conquer the European market

Founded in Aquitaine, France, more than a century ago, Rondinaud has set its sights on northern European markets and also plans to establish a presence in Germany, Spain and Italy.

This is a challenge that the company, which has fifteen employees, intends to face, reinforced by its Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status and by a reputation that has taken it to the MoMA in New York. The shop of the Museum of Modern Art offers the traditional charentaise without glue made by the century-old brand La Rochefoucauld.

“From obtaining PGI status to our presence in the United States, these signs of recognition are a tremendous source of pride and a testament to the value of our fifteen employees and our expertise,” says Olivier Rondinaud. “Our ambition now is to make this charentaise, a true ambassador of Charente, a staple of comfort and style in European homes.”

The company's European ambitions are based on a retail network that currently comprises around 500 points of sale, spread between own boutiques and multi-brand retailers, in addition to an online portal presenting its entire product range.

If Ateliers Rondinaud says that its target is northern Europe, it is not surprising because of the climate. “The seasonality and cocoon culture fit perfectly with the qualities of wool felt Charentaise (about 38 tons of felt are used annually),” the company notes.

With production now reaching between 450 and 500 pairs per day, the company says it sold more than 90,000 pairs in 2024 and expects to record a turnover of €1.9 million in fiscal year 2025.