Falke
Falke family · Germany
Falke is a German family company from Schmallenberg in the Sauerland, founded in 1895 and best known for premium socks, tights and sports socks. It is run by cousins Paul and Franz-Peter Falke in the fourth generation and also owns the Burlington brand.
| Founded | 1895 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Franz Falke-Rohen |
| Owner | Falke family |
| Management | Paul Falke and Franz-Peter Falke (since 1990) |
| Headquarters | Schmallenberg, Germany |
| Brands | Falke, Burlington |
| Website | falke.com |
What is Falke?
Falke is a German manufacturer and brand specialising in legwear. Its range covers socks and fine hosiery for women, men and children, technical sportswear such as base layers and running socks, and underwear and knitwear. The company is a KGaA owned and managed by the Falke family.
History
The company was founded in 1895 by Franz Falke-Rohen, a former roofer who had worked at a knitting mill. Its factory in Schmallenberg was built in 1920 and remains the headquarters. Over the twentieth century the business added production in Lippstadt and later abroad, including sites in Serbia, Slovakia and South Africa.
Since 1990 the company has been led by the fourth generation, the cousins Paul Falke and Franz-Peter Falke. In 2008 Falke acquired the Burlington trademark, known for its argyle socks and menswear.
Products and positioning
Falke is positioned as a premium specialist. Its main product groups are:
- Socks for men, women and children
- Fine tights and hosiery
- Sports socks and functional apparel under its Ergonomic Sport System
- Underwear and selected knitwear
The brand emphasises quality yarns, fit and in-house manufacturing know-how. It has also produced licensed legwear for other fashion brands.
Business model and distribution
Falke sells through specialist retailers, department store shop-in-shops, its own stores and e-commerce. Its first flagship opened in Cologne in 1992. Export sales are coordinated by Falke International, founded in 1995, and the brand is present in many international department stores and sports retailers.
Why it matters
Falke shows how a traditional German textile manufacturer can build a strong consumer brand on a narrow category. Its combination of family ownership, own production and category leadership in premium legwear makes it a reference point for specialist brands in sports and fashion retail.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Falke from?
Falke is a German company from Schmallenberg in the Sauerland region of North Rhine-Westphalia. It was founded there in 1895 and is still headquartered in the town.
Who owns Falke?
Falke is a family business owned by the Falke family. Cousins Paul and Franz-Peter Falke have led it in the fourth generation since 1990.