About Us

A LEGACY OF INNOVATION
110 years ago, entrepreneur Jesse Shwayder founded a luggage manufacturing company in downtown Denver, Colorado. Inspired by the opportunities created by the Gold Rush, Shwayder quickly recognized the potential of the growing luggage market.
Over the years, the business evolved into a dynamic, world-leading travel goods company with several strong brands. Since its founding in 1910, Samsonite has been dedicated to producing premium-quality luggage and bags with one clear mission: to create durable and reliable products that meet the needs of travelers and beyond.
The global travel industry never stands still, and throughout its 110-year history, Samsonite has remained committed to quality, durability, and technological innovation. The company continuously introduces new materials, creates iconic designs, and enhances comfort for travelers. Along its journey, Samsonite has achieved many groundbreaking “firsts,” all rooted in a long-standing tradition of innovation.
Wooden Trunk
Jesse Shwayder, the founder of the company, modernized the traditional wooden suitcase by adding metal rivets and reinforced corner protectors. This innovation made the luggage more durable, reliable, and visually appealing.


Streamlite™
At the beginning of this new edge-forming technology, Streamlite was covered with a thin layer of lithographed paper to create a distinctive “crumpled” effect. Its trapezoidal shape was destined to become an industry classic.
Silhouette™
The most advanced luggage of its time featured a new, modern design with recessed hardware, specially engineered to protect it from wear and tear during travel.


Classic Briefcase
The first ABS briefcase was created for a new generation of business professionals. This premium case quickly became an essential accessory for executives and public officials throughout the 1960s.
Saturn™
In response to the growing demand for lightweight luggage, Samsonite launched its first polypropylene suitcase. The Saturn collection became the perfect combination of lightness, durability, and strength.


Silhouette Blue
The introduction of wheels to luggage changed the travel industry forever. This innovation became a true revolution in travel comfort and convenience, designed specifically for a new generation of frequent flyers.
Oyster™
Oyster™ was the first suitcase to feature a three-digit combination locking system, providing exceptional security and durability. The model achieved unprecedented success, with 140,000 units sold in its very first year.


Ziplite™
Samsonite introduced Ziplite, its first polypropylene suitcase with a zipper closure, successfully combining the advantages of both hard-shell and soft-sided luggage. Sales grew rapidly, marking the beginning of a new market segment for zippered hard-shell suitcases.
Xylem™
The launch of the first aluminum Samsonite suitcase. This briefcase model was featured in the James Bond film The World Is Not Enough, where it was used to transport money across Europe.

Spinner®
Samsonite introduces its first four-wheel suitcase, making luggage transportation easier and more convenient than ever before. The suitcase can glide effortlessly alongside the traveler and rotate smoothly in any direction when needed. This innovation dramatically improved mobility, maneuverability, and overall travel comfort for luggage owners.


Cosmolite®
In response to the growing demand for stronger yet lightweight luggage, Samsonite launched the Cosmolite collection. It became the lightest and most durable luggage ever produced by the brand. Inspired by the shape of a seashell, its distinctive design achieved instant success and earned numerous prestigious awards, including the Red Dot Award “Best of the Best.”
Neopulse™
With the launch of Neopulse, Samsonite further strengthened its manufacturing capabilities in Europe. The “Made in Europe” label, combined with a striking design and exceptionally lightweight construction, was exactly what helped the new collection achieve rapid and long-lasting success.


Eco Collection
Around the world, Samsonite launched 23 product collections made using recycled polypropylene or Recyclex™ — a special fabric produced from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles. This initiative reflects the brand’s commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact.
S'Cure ECO Green Grey edition
The first suitcase in the world made from recycled plastic waste and reclaimed materials. Its shell is crafted from polypropylene derived from household waste. By reusing this valuable material, the manufacturers successfully transformed it into a functional, durable, and high-quality product.


110 Years of the Brand
The company is ready for its next chapter as we celebrate our 110th anniversary with a new collection of innovative products.
Today, Samsonite is the world’s No. 1 travel lifestyle brand. Its portfolio includes a wide range of suitcases, travel bags, backpacks, laptop bags, umbrellas, accessories, and many other products designed to make travel easier, more comfortable, and more enjoyable.