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Signaling vibrancy in the travel space – and emerging niches – the LVMH Luxury Ventures Fund has taken a minority stake in Db, a Norwegian maker of premium luggage and travel bags with an irreverent streak.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
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Known for its sturdy, functional bags and enthusiastic following among surfers, skiers, skaters and other outdoor enthusiasts, Db cases were originally marketed under the brand name Douchebags.
According to the Db website, the word douchebag doesn’t have the same connotation with Norwegians and Swedes as it does with native English speakers.
In a statement, Db said the funding round, its first, would enable it to “accelerate its global development even further, with plans to increase brand awareness through strategic partnerships, double down on its core North European markets, as well as accelerate growth in the U.S. and Asia.”
The brand recently opened its first store in Tokyo, and is eyeing expansion into several markets, including Denmark, the Netherlands, the U.K. and the Baltics. It is planning to open a small number of stores in North Europe from 2026.
“Today’s premium traveler isn’t looking for the same old black suitcase – they want travel gear that reflects their lifestyle,” according to Truls Brataas, a Norwegian engineering student who founded the brand in 2012 with Swedish free-skier Jon Olsson. “This investment from [LVMH Luxury Ventures] is transformational, and some renowned additional investors might also join the table at a later stage. All together, we’re ready to redefine the travel gear market.”
Richard Collier, chief executive officer of the Oslo-based firm, said LVMH’s “global perspective, credibility and strategic knowledge makes this a perfect fit for our vision of what the brand can become.”
Db makes a range of luggage, backpacks, duffels, totes and accessories from mostly recycled materials, with proprietary innovations for protecting gear, and connecting multiple bags for easier carrying.
Its products are carried by such prominent retailers as Selfridges, Harrods, End Clothing, Goodhood and Baskets.
According to Db, a surging premium travel market has “younger, design-conscious, creative consumers driving demand for distinctive, durable and sustainable products.
“The funding will also fuel design innovations, with plans for an aluminium luggage line in 2026 to go alongside its award-winning Ramverk pro series, and a much-anticipated range of golf travel gear,” Db said.