Thibaut Pichelingat created his leather goods brand Pichet Paris almost a year ago. We look back on his three years atArts et Métiers his third year studying CREDA, which enabled him to bring his project to fruition.
This project is based on solid foundations, namely family tradition, and has several branches: the pursuit of excellence, craftsmanship, and "Made in France" to offer customers a unique product.
Entrepreneurship at the heart of his career
Thibaut Pichelingat cut his teeth in his first year at the Arts et Métiers campus Arts et Métiers Cluny, where he studied Innovation and Entrepreneurship. The following year, he took part in the Entrepreneuriales de Bourgogne competition with a project involving connected street furniture. He tested, acquired and consolidated his managerial skills by also organizing the Grand Gala. It was a formative experience: "I was able to manage a team of 203 engineering students, gain credibility with professionals, and handle the communication and budget for an event that brings together more than 4,500 people every year," says Thibaut.
In his third year, he completed his studies at the Arts et Métiers Campus Arts et Métiers Paris, specializing in Business Creation and Development (CREDA) in the "Project Leader" program. Thibaut wanted to test his project, a brand of customizable leather goods. CREDA offers six months of classes directly related to his project and six months of complete autonomy. Autonomous, yes, but Thibaut was never alone. Samir Lamouri, his tutor, is aArts et Métiers instructor atArts et Métiers . He has shared with Thibaut his network, built up over many years as a consultant for major luxury brands.
Why did you decide to study at a general engineering school rather than a design or leather goodsschool ?"Arts et Métiers with the CREDA program offers the best foundation for learning how to manage a business, and this school is highly recognized, so it brings great credibility even in fields outside of engineering," replies Thibaut.
Arts et Métiers with the CREDA curriculum offers the best foundation for learning how to manage a business.
A passion for materials and the pursuit of excellence
After graduating from engineering school, Thibaut launched his leather goods brand , Pichet Paris. To set himself apart from his competitors, he didn't hesitate to start from scratch and create his own prototype. It took him five attempts to perfect the card holder, but it's unique...
This passion for beautiful things and craftsmanship is a legacy from her mother, who ran a workshop producing high-end ready-to-wear clothing.
To craft his pieces, he has partnered with five workshops and two French tanneries, and does not hesitate to travel across France several times. They are certified"Entreprises du Patrimoine Vivant" (EPV), a mark of recognition from the French government established to promote companies with rare, renowned, or ancestral artisanal or industrial expertise based on mastery of traditional or highly technical techniques.
Conquering Japan
Thibaut's next steps for development are focused on the international market, particularly Japan. "These are customers who appreciate these products and respect traditional manufacturing methods," Thibaut points out. He also wants to start a blog and raise consumer awareness about leather and leather goods in general, helping them to better understand these products. After all, as the saying goes: If you love leather, learn how to care for it!
