29 October 2026International edition
Vol. I · No.
29 October 2026
AI IN FASHION
DAILY
The daily briefing on AI in the fashion business
Where fashion meets artificial intelligence.
Bags, accessories and eyewear

American Tourister

Samsonite · United States

American Tourister is an American luggage brand founded in 1933 in Providence, Rhode Island, by brothers Sol and Irving Koffler. Part of Samsonite, it makes suitcases, backpacks and small leather goods.

Facts
Founded1933
FoundersSol and Irving Koffler
Original nameAmerican Luggage Works
ParentSamsonite
OriginProvidence, Rhode Island
Websiteamericantourister.com
Segment
Mid-market
Categories
BagsAccessories
Sales channels
Own storesWholesaleE-commerceDepartment stores

What is American Tourister?

American Tourister is a travel goods brand from the United States and one of the best known names in luggage. It is owned by Samsonite.

History

The company was founded in 1933 as American Luggage Works by brothers Sol and Irving Koffler in Providence, Rhode Island. In 1993 it was acquired by Astrum International, which also owned Samsonite; two years later Astrum was renamed Samsonite Corporation, bringing American Tourister into the Samsonite group.

Products and positioning

The brand's range covers:

  • Suitcases
  • Backpacks
  • Wallets

Within the Samsonite portfolio, American Tourister serves a broad, value-conscious audience with colourful, durable travel goods.

Distribution

American Tourister products are sold worldwide through department stores and other retailers, Samsonite stores and online.

Why it matters

American Tourister is a long-running example of a heritage American brand run as part of a multi-brand luggage group, with a clear role in the group's price architecture.

Frequently asked questions

Who owns American Tourister?

American Tourister is owned by Samsonite, having joined the group through a 1993 acquisition.

When was American Tourister founded?

It was founded in 1933 as American Luggage Works by Sol and Irving Koffler in Providence, Rhode Island.

Samsonite Group: all brands
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