1896
In 1896, at La Mothe-Achard in the Vendée, Edmond Ruchaud launched his saddlery and harness business. A technical craftsman, he made and repaired saddles, harnesses and leather equipment for horses. The company soon moved to Les Sables-d'Olonne to support its growth around the port.
The result is a family business whose expertise and passion have been passed on for 130 years.
1930
In the 1930s, Léon Ruchaud, Edmond’s son, embraced the rise of the automobile by adapting the family’s expertise to the new “horsepower.” He transformed the company into a workshop specialized in automotive equipment and upholstery set up at the rear of a shop with a street display in downtown Les Sables-d’Olonne. It was there that the slogan was born: “Ruchaud, the automobile’s finest attire.”
1950
In the 1950s, Jacques Ruchaud and his wife Colombe took over the business. Facing the evolving automotive industry, Jacques, a powerboating champion, reoriented the business toward the boating sector, opening up a new horizon. Based on the French Atlantic coast, the company became a pioneer in marine upholstery and a trusted partner of France’s leading shipyards, laying the foundations for its future leadership in the field.
1995
In 1995, siblings Carol and Bruno Ruchaud took over from their parents, leading the company into a new phase of development. Thanks to major industrial investments in cutting-edge equipment such as foam and fabric cutting machines, RUCHAUD expanded into new markets including aeronautics, the travel goods industry, and outdoor accommodation sector. In 2008, the company set up a new 4,500 m² facility in Les Achards — a modern site that reflects both growth and heritage.
2024
A new chapter begins with Valentin Delalande and Renaud Montin taking over the company. Both natives of Western France and deeply attached to the Vendée region, these two entrepreneurs are committed to driving Ruchaud’s growth while preserving its family heritage and century-old expertise — the core values that have built the company’s reputation. Their ambition: to further strengthen Ruchaud’s expertise in marine upholstery, explore new markets, and expand internationally.
For generations, we have combined the best of our age-old know-how with the industrial innovation. This unique synergy enables us to meet the serial production needs of markets that demand customization. With comfort, durability and aesthetics as key values, Ruchaud’s achievements are uncompromising.
Made
in Vendée
Love lasts at least 130 years at Ruchaud!
From La Mothe Achard to Les Sables d'Olonne, between Ruchaud and the Vendée, it's an enduring story. This region, with its daring spirit and open outlook on the ocean, has taken Ruchaud to the pinnacle of its expertise, and enabled it to pursue what has always driven it: its love for work well done, made in France. At Ruchaud, everything is done from the heart.
