Le Slip Francais patriotic underwear maker set for Bastille Day stock market launch

• The company started by selling male underwear in French flag colors as a tongue-in-cheek patriotic move, positioning itself against fast-fashion rivals like Inditex, H&M, and Shein
• Le Slip Francais has expanded from men's briefs to women's wear, pyjamas, and other clothing, proving resilient while competitors like Jennyfer and NafNaf faced liquidation or receivership
• The IPO targets €5 million in capital raising with trading set to begin on France's national day, July 14

Summary

Le Slip Français IPO Overview:

French underwear manufacturer Le Slip Français plans to launch its IPO on July 14 (Bastille Day) on Euronext Growth Paris, aiming to raise €5 million ($5.69 million). The company, founded 15 years ago, represents a rare success story in France's struggling textile industry.

Company Background and Performance:

Le Slip Français began as a patriotic response to competitive pressures from fast-fashion retailers like Spain's Inditex and H&M, initially selling only men's underwear in French flag colors (blue, white, and red). The company has since expanded into women's wear, pyjamas, and other clothing categories. In its most recent year, Le Slip Français generated €21.1 million ($24.02 million) in sales and posted a net profit of €700,000.

Market Context:

The company distinguishes itself by manufacturing entirely in France, contrasting with competitors outsourcing production. Its resilience stands out amid industry failures, including Jennyfer's April liquidation and NafNaf's receivership since May. The brand faces ongoing pressure from ultra-fast fashion players like Chinese giant Shein.

Investment Details:

CEO Guillaume Gibault emphasizes the company's mission to "change the world by changing underwear." The symbolic July 14 listing date aligns with French National Day, reinforcing the brand's patriotic positioning. The IPO will allow investors to bid for new shares on the Euronext Growth Paris market.

Market Implications:

This listing tests investor appetite for "Made in France" brands competing against low-cost international fast-fashion manufacturers in an increasingly challenging retail environment.