The Prestige of Porter Bags Reborn Through Collaborations
Japan’s premium bag brand PORTER is opening a new chapter through collaborations with global brands. Since 2023, these high-profile partnerships have gained worldwide attention, blending Porter's tradition and philosophy with innovative design and storytelling.
Iconic Collaboration with Comme des Garçons
On April 12, 2023, Porter released a capsule collection in collaboration with Japanese high-end brand Comme des Garçons. This project commemorated the 40th anniversary of Porter’s signature item, the Tanker bag. Rei Kawakubo, founder of Comme des Garçons, personally directed the project. Nylon bags were decorated with Comme des Garçons' iconic graphics, resulting in a unique and artistic synergy.
Ongoing Global Collaborations
With Valentino: In December 2023, Porter released a collaborative collection with Italian luxury brand Valentino. Nine unique bags featuring Valentino’s Toile Iconography pattern on Porter bags were launched.
With G-SHOCK: In November 2023, a limited-edition watch was launched with G-SHOCK. It featured a matte black octagonal case with colorful details, and each purchase included a Porter bag.
With Starbucks Japan: In June 2023, Porter collaborated with Starbucks Japan to release waterproof nylon bags, which quickly gained popularity for their practicality and design.
With other global brands: Porter also teamed up with Canadian design studio JAWN and UK-based streetwear brand Palace for special capsule collections.
The Craftsmanship Behind Porter
Founded in Tokyo in 1935 by Yoshida Kichizo, Porter was born from the philosophy that a bag should be a tool to carry belongings. Yoshida began training in bag-making at the age of 12 and spent 17 years mastering his craft before launching the Yoshida Bag Workshop. At a time when branding was not common, he named the brand ‘Porter,’ inspired by the belief that porters knew bags best.
The Turning Point: The Tanker Bag
In the 1980s, as international brand licenses became popular in Japan, Porter briefly lost public attention. However, in 1983, Porter launched the Tanker series, inspired by the U.S. Air Force MA-1 flight jacket. Its durable yet lightweight nylon construction and minimalist design captured the hearts of young professionals.
The Birth of the New Tanker
In May 2024, to mark the 40th anniversary of the Tanker series, Porter unveiled the ‘New Tanker.’ Made from 100% plant-based nylon, it emphasizes sustainability. Design improvements, such as an upgraded zipper slider, enhance usability. Porter chose not to aggressively market this innovation, staying true to their philosophy of letting the product speak for itself.
Philosophy and Sustainable Growth
Global Presence: Porter operates in over 600 stores worldwide.
Financial Stability: The brand has never recorded a financial loss in 90 years.
Customer Trust: Porter enjoys high customer loyalty and frequent repeat purchases.
1-Item 1-Craftsman System: Every product has a serial number, indicating the specific artisan who made it. Repairs are handled by the original craftsman.
Porter remains a brand that combines craftsmanship, sustainability, and emotional value, resonating across generations.
