L'Ascenseur Confection, technical expertise in professional garment making
Founded in 1920 in Arques, on the emblematic site of the boat elevator that gave it its name, Ascenseur Confection initially specialized in the distribution and customization of workwear. The company gradually integrated increasingly technical garment making savoir-faire, becoming a key player in the production of professional, durable garments.
Today based in Merville and run by Pascal Laise, the atelier continues to combine innovative development, artisanal savoir-faire and social responsibility. After counting up to 90 employees at its peak, the workshop now operates with a dozen highly qualified staff, constantly innovating while remaining true to its human and environmental values.
A handcrafted savoir-faire at the service of professionals
L'Ascenseur Confection stands out for its expertise in designing professional garments tailored to the specific needs of its customers. The Product development unit plays a central role in developing tailor-made solutions for each request, taking into account postures, work environment and professions constraints. "We develop and shape workwear in the image of our client company", sums up Pascal Laise.
To do this, "we have the entire process in-house, from design to production. We're not structured like a contract manufacturer, we control every step of the thinking and value chain", explains the executive. Thanks to a team specialized in fashion design, technical fashion design, cutting, garment making and logistics, the company ensures total control of all manufacturing phases. This integrated process guarantees production that combines ergonomics, safety and comfort, meeting the expectations of a wide fan of sectors, such as local authorities and administrations, private companies, service companies and specialized distribution. This is complemented by advanced technical expertise in the production of personal protective equipment (PPE), which combines innovation and quality requirements. "We have a craftsman's approach with techniques that are intended to be industrial", explains the manager.
Although primarily focused on professional clothing, the company sometimes allows itself atypical projects that enrich its savoir-faire. "This allows us to challenge ourselves, to improve. For example, we have developed a corporate wear offering for prestigious customers such as the French Senate, the Rodin Museum and the French National Assembly", he points out.
A modernization deeply focused on sustainability
L'Ascenseur Confection affirms its identity through a strong commitment to sustainability, in both its services and its products. Labeled Origine France Garantie and France Terre Textile (of which Pascal Laise is President of the Nord Terre Textile regional branch), the company makes it a point of honor to favor short circuits and European raw materials. "These labels bring real added value. It shows that our products are designed with respect for local and environmental standards", emphasizes Pascal Laise.
As part of its responsible innovation approach, the company is constantly modernizing its practices to minimize its ecological footprint. Resource management plays a central role: "We produce small batches and make sure there is never any surplus in the workshop", says the manager. A partnership with associations enables us to recycle up to 400 kg of fabric scraps every month, reinforcing our involvement in the circular economy. In addition, Ascenseur Confection has invested in energy sobriety: "We redid the buildings in 2021 to reduce our energy consumption. We have optimized the façade, openings and roof to regulate the building's temperature", he explains.
A concrete example of this commitment is the range of jackets, pants and vests named Collection 1920, which fully embodies the company's sustainable philosophy. This line offers ergonomic garments that can be adapted and customized. What's more, this collection is unique in the workwear world, being marketed in carbon value, reflecting the company's commitment to transparency and sustainability.
Human values at the heart of garment making
L'Ascenseur Confection conceives its garments as vectors of identity and cohesion for companies, while supporting the local economy through local production. "When you buy a garment from us, you're also buying social, local economy, roads, schools, and much more", emphasizes Pascal Laise. The company is also committed to inclusion, creating clothing adapted to all morphologies."Every team member, whatever their size or condition, can find an outfit that suits them perfectly", he points out.
Employee support is essential. "We train through tutoring, allowing young people to train directly within the company", explains Pascal Laise."Learn, do and pass on: that's our leitmotif", he sums up. "Each employee has a specificity and is not easily replaceable", adds the manager, thus insisting on the importance of valorizing savoir-faire. To this end, the company invites its customers to visit the workshop: "They discover the hands that work and understand the humanity behind each garment and the price".
L'Ascenseur Confection also participates in social and societal initiatives:"our company is rooted in strong societal values, whether through our solidarity actions or our support for local artists", he explains. Artist exhibitions and team-building events are regularly organized. "Great team cohesion is one of our great strengths. We bring in artists, speakers to create a stimulating, human environment", adds the executive.
L'Ascenseur Confection embodies a business model where craftsmanship blends harmoniously with modern, responsible practices. "We remain true to our values and our quest for innovation", concludes the executive. With mastery of the production chain, an asserted commitment to society and an eco-responsible approach, the company proves that this French savoir-faire can meet contemporary challenges while remaining a model of performance and inclusivity.
March 03, 2025 - The beginning of this year is marked by the takeover of this fine company by KIPLAY, a family-owned business renowned for its expertise in the design and manufacture of professional, technical clothing and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), as well as its French Prêt à Porter brand Kiplay Vintage. A move that will enable KIPLAY to expand its product range while preserving its core values: excellence, eco-responsibility, innovation and support for the local economy.
To find out more, discover the company fact sheet for Ascenseur Confection.
