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Manufacture Française d’Armes et Cycles de Saint-Étienne, also known as Manufrance, was founded in 1885 in Saint-Étienne, France, by gunsmiths Étienne Mimard and Pierre Blachon. Initially, the company specialized in the production of firearms and bicycles, including the famous “Robust,” “Idéal,” “Simplex” shotguns, and “Hirondelle” bicycles.
In 1887, Manufrance became the first French company to introduce a mail-order catalog system, distributing its products nationwide. By 1903, the company had doubled its manufacturing space to over 40,000 m², expanding its product range to include fishing gear, sewing machines, and household goods.
In 1969, Manufrance introduced the “Falcor” shotgun, and by the 1970s, it was producing 65% of French hunting rifles, manufacturing over 80,000 units annually. During this period, the company operated 125,000 m² of production facilities in Saint-Étienne and employed more than 4,000 people.
However, in 1985, the company faced financial difficulties and was liquidated. In 1988, the brand was revived by Jacques Tavitian, and Manufrance continued its legacy of French craftsmanship and innovation.
