ACE
ACE is a Japanese bag and luggage maker founded in Osaka in 1940 by Ryusaku Shinkawa. Now based in Tokyo, it makes suitcases, backpacks and bags under brands such as Proteca and owns Zero Halliburton.
| Founded | 1940, Osaka |
|---|---|
| Founder | Ryusaku Shinkawa |
| Headquarters | Harajuku, Tokyo |
| Key brands | Proteca, ACE, Zero Halliburton |
| Factory | Akabira, Hokkaido |
| Website | ace.jp |
What is ACE?
ACE is one of Japan's leading luggage and bag companies, headquartered in Harajuku, Tokyo. It began in 1940 as a small bag manufacturer in Osaka founded by Ryusaku Shinkawa.
Products and positioning
The company produces suitcases, holdalls, totes, backpacks and Boston bags. Its best known line is Proteca, made at its own factory in Akabira, Hokkaido, and labelled as made in Japan. ACE also owns the aluminium luggage brand Zero Halliburton, runs around 15 original brands and produces bags under licence for other fashion and sports labels. Its school holdall, the Madison Bag, became one of its most widely sold products.
Distribution
ACE products are sold through Japanese department stores such as Mitsukoshi and Takashimaya, a network of own shops including a Proteca flagship in Hibiya, and stockists across Asia, supported by a subsidiary in Singapore.
Why it matters
ACE shows how a domestic manufacturer can use Japanese production and a portfolio of brands to compete in premium travel goods at home and abroad.
Frequently asked questions
Where is ACE luggage made?
ACE's Proteca suitcases are made at the company's factory in Akabira, Hokkaido, Japan.
Who owns Zero Halliburton?
Zero Halliburton is owned by the Japanese luggage company ACE.