This is one of Louis Vuitton's only American factories, and it specializes in fine leather goods given its location in Texas cattle country. While not normally open to the public, LVMH opened their facilities to guided tours for one weekend as part of their Les Journées Particulières, giving a fascinating look behind the scenes.
Located pretty far from Fort Worth in the countryside, this ranch has attractive Western terrain with live oaks, cacti and thick brush alongside winding paved roads with street lamps leading to the large compound of stone and glass buildings with plenty of paved parking. The main entrance building has an attractive front desk and lounge decorated with Louis Vuitton purses and books leading to hallways of framed photos and artwork representing Louis Vuitton history.
Once one goes through the enclosed walkway to the main factory there's a chamber with original steamer trunks on display along with a huge mascot statue, and then it's onto the rows and rows of sewing machines, leather working equipment and more. The tour was an excellent way to learn some of the history of the company and facility and learn their attention to detail.
While there's no telling when such an event will happen again (I hope it's an annual tradition!), I definitely recommend jumping on it any time it's possible. The factory workers and other employees were so welcoming and informative, and it was well worth the drive from Austin. read more