- Founded
- 2008-01-01 in Cambridge, England
- Headquarters
- England (Cambridge and London areas)
Founded in 2008 from a kitchen table in Cambridge, England, The Cambridge Satchel Company is a British luxury leather-goods brand known for reviving the classic school satchel into a global fashion accessory. Started by entrepreneur Julie Deane and her mother Freda Thomas with just £600 to fund private school fees for Deane’s children, the company grew rapidly after being featured in a 2009 Guardian Christmas gift guide and later catching the attention of international fashion editors. By 2011, production had soared from three hand-made bags a week to over 3,000, with turnover exceeding £13 million by 2013. The brand attracted investment from Index Ventures in 2014 and was acquired by the French luxury group Chargeurs in 2017. Today, Cambridge Satchel sells through six physical stores in the UK, a strong e‑commerce presence in over 120 countries, and collaborations with designers such as Comme des Garçons and Vivienne Westwood. All products are handmade in the company’s own factory near Leicester, England, maintaining a commitment to ethical sourcing and quality craftsmanship.
Detailed Review
Founding and History
The Cambridge Satchel Company was born out of a personal necessity: in 2007, Julie Deane’s eight-year-old daughter was being bullied at school, and Deane promised to move her to a private institution. With only £600 available, Deane compiled a list of ten business ideas and settled on reviving the traditional British satchel, which she saw as an iconic but neglected product. She taught herself basic coding to set up a website and sent hundreds of emails daily to fashion editors and bloggers. The breakthrough came when The Guardian included a Cambridge Satchel in its Christmas gift guide for men, triggering an avalanche of orders. The company’s popularity was further amplified by international fashion press and a collaboration with Comme des Garçons in 2011, propelling it from a cottage industry to a global brand.
Growth and Investment
By 2014, the company was making 500 bags per day and had secured $21 million in Series A funding led by Index Ventures. That same year, it opened its first physical store in London. In 2015, it launched a dedicated menswear line and men’s store. In 2016, the company appointed veteran watch executive Vincent Perriard as CEO, replacing founder Julie Deane who moved to a non‑executive role. In 2017, French luxury group Chargeurs acquired the company for an undisclosed sum, integrating it into their fashion and new markets division.
Products and Manufacturing
Since the acquisition, Cambridge Satchel has continued to expand its product range to include backpacks, handbags, small leather goods, and limited‑edition collaborations. The brand emphasises “made in England” manufacturing, with its own factory in Leicester ensuring control over quality and ethical practices. As of 2025, the company operates six stores in the UK, an e‑commerce site shipping worldwide, and is known for its distinctive, colourful, and customisable satchels.
Key Products
Classic Satchel
The original design, a structured leather satchel available in multiple sizes and colours, inspired by the traditional British school bag.
Backpacks
Modern leather backpacks using the same high‑quality materials and craftsmanship.
Crossbody & Handbags
Fashion‑forward leather bags for women and men, including the “Poppy” and “Mini” ranges.
Small Leather Goods
Wallets, cardholders, passport covers, and key rings.
Collaborations
Limited‑edition collections with Comme des Garçons, Vivienne Westwood, and other designers.
Key Persons
- Julie Deane
Founder (non-executive)