Maison Pierre Vaux: French production of umbrellas and parasols since 1920

"Up to 3 hours to make an umbrella..." Dominique Vaux

Pierre Vaux, the company's founder, and his wife Joséphine settled in the Jura in the town of Saint-Claude 100 years ago to start making, selling and repairing umbrellas. 

A century later, 10,000 entirely handmade umbrellas and parasols leave the Pierre Vaux factory each year. 

The third generation now at the helm under Dominique Vaux, the founder's grandson (assisted by his brother Pierre), continues the tradition of excellence started by his ancestors:

 "Our aim is to continue to move our products upmarket," he explains.

 "15 years ago, it took 30 minutes to assemble the average umbrella. Nowadays, for the most complicated models, it takes between 1 and 3 hours."

Watch the report produced by France 3 Bourgogne Franche Comté, broadcast in the regional edition on 14 May 2019 from 7 to 8 pm.