the essential
As of this Friday, October 18, 2024, Laguiole knife manufacturers in Nord-Aveyron will be able to affix the Geographical Indication.
“It’s a relief and legitimate recognition,” says Honoré Durand, president of the union of Aveyron knife manufacturers from Laguiole. Indeed, the National Institute of Industrial Property (Inpi) has just granted the Geographical Indication to the Laguiole knife as of today, Friday October 18.
A collective victory
A decision which follows the legal one, obtained on July 11 by the union before the Aix-en-Provence Court of Appeal. The latter had invalidated the decision taken by the Inpi, on September 6, 2022, to grant the Geographical Indication of the laguiole knife to the Couteau laguiole Aubrac Auvergne (Claa) association whose headquarters is located in Thiers (Puy-de- Dome).
Recognition for the folding knife
Laguiole recovers the fate of his bee concerning the folding knife. “It is a victory obtained with the support of the municipality of Laguiole and the French Federation of GIs protecting industrial and artisanal products,” specifies the Laguiolais cutler. A collective victory whose battle was originally led by Laguiole.
Long years of struggle were necessary. In the absence of a victory acquired by the name – the businessman Szajner had registered the Laguiole brand in 1993 – the cutlers of Nord-Aveyron were able to take advantage of the Hamon law, exactly ten years ago, aimed at protecting consumers. “The consumer, from this Friday, October 18, will buy a Laguiole knife knowing its origin,” says Honoré Durand. An area which includes Espalion, Aubrac, bounded by the Lot and Truyère rivers.
30% increase expected
Obtaining the “GI” also brings economic benefits. “Around 30%,” reveals Honoré Durand. This provides encouraging prospects in this sector which is particularly affected by competition. “In a few days, we will send a letter to customs to prohibit the arrival of Laguiole knives from abroad,” announces Honoré Durand, clearly targeting Laguiole knives from South-West Asia.
And to conclude: “We will be able to show the whole world that we know how to respect specifications to manufacture a Laguiole folding knife in Laguiole and North Aveyron.”
