1957
Gatine Shoe Design
Charles Gilbert founded "Chaussures de Gatine" in Parthenay, in the Deux-Sèvres department. The son of a galoshes (wood-soled shoes) manufacturer, he is convinced that the future lies in rubber soles.
He designs several models of work boots. His clientele consists of farmworkers and livestock dealers, as the workshop is located in the heart of a rural region where major livestock fairs are held.
1970
Development
Gatine Shoes is expanding: 25 people work in production and manufacture approximately 35,000 pairs per year.
1980
The choice of a French production
We are witnessing the decline of the footwear manufacturing industry in France as production is moved overseas. However, Charles Gilbert has chosen to continue manufacturing his shoes entirely in his workshop in the Gâtinais region.
1984
Gilbert & Sons
The founding of the company “Gilbert et Fils”: Charles handed the business over to his eldest son, Alain, who became the manager. Bernard, the younger son, was put in charge of production.
1990
Aesthetic renewal
The creation of new, more urban-oriented models allows us to diversify and refresh our product line in order to reach a wider audience.
1994
Relocation of the premises
The historic workshop must be closed for safety reasons, and new facilities are being built in Pompaire, a neighboring town.
2013
Economic turning point
In the early 2010s, the company began to face financial difficulties. In 2013, the company filed for bankruptcy, but it reaffirmed its commitment to keeping all stages of production in-house. The company received support from its customers, the local community, and local politicians.
2020
Cessation of Business Operations
Alain Gilbert is retiring and has decided to close the family business in the hope that someone will take it over.
2021
Business Turnaround
Clémence Nerbusson and Sophie Brulé are taking on the challenge of revitalizing this locally rooted brand, staying true to the values they have upheld since its inception: quality, sustainability, timelessness, and a warm, welcoming spirit.
2024–2025
(re)development
The recovery is well underway, new models have been created, all our shoes are now certified "Origine France Garantie," and we have decided to refresh our brand identity with new visuals and a new logo.