Trojan Arthur Berthelin goes to the Olympic Games wearing sportswear from his Springart brand.

The Rugby World Cup in France is ancient history. The Springboks will still be playing at the Stade de France in July. It was this South African antelope, which became the nickname of the South African rugby team, that Arthur Berthelin chose as the symbol of Springart. “Last year we simplified the logo to make it easier to recognize,” emphasizes the 23-year-old. A good regional athlete, he created his sportswear brand in 2016, inspired by the success of the family’s Lafite sportswear business, founded by his grandfather in 1976, and his detailed knowledge of sportswear.

These two entities are closely related. The 25,000 Springart units sold in 2023 represent 80% of the output of the Lafitte workshops, where Arthur Berthelin is development manager. “Since the inception of Springart, we have doubled our production every year. Except for 2023, where the numbers are only slightly higher than 2022.” There is no worry in the young business leader’s voice: “We took advantage of 2023 to launch a cycling series and another triathlon. When I discuss the situation with other brands, I tell myself that we should not be pitied. We expect to continue our growth in 2024. »

Renaud Lavillenie seduces

Springart’s design and responsiveness have attracted big names in French athletics and triathlon such as Vincent Louis, Jimmy Gressier and Renaud Lavillenie. In the age of social media, the brand quickly became known for the originality and quality of its products. Many clubs turned to the company to outfit their athletes. “Athletes want style, and that’s what personalization allows. »

“We offer personalized gear for athletes to wear from their private sponsors. » No minimum quantity – “This is one of our strengths” – unlike major market players such as Nike, Adidas, Puma or Le Coq Sportif, another company with roots in Aube. Two years ago, Springart reached a major milestone with the purchase of a laser cutting machine and gluing machine that allows for assembly without even a trace of wire, limiting the risk of abrasion. “Thanks to this, we began to make ourselves known internationally,” continues Arthur Berthelin.

Designed and manufactured in Troyes.

Already a presence at the Beijing 2021 Games thanks to several bi-national athletes, Springart is set to become an even bigger presence at the Stade de France during the Paris 2024 athletics meet. has already worked with us. » Arthur Berthelin took advantage of the meeting in Budapest (Hungary) in August 2023 to establish contacts with a number of foreign federations. Africa and Latin America are Springart’s preferred targets.

“The goal is for us to break even on this part or even make some money,” adds the manager, who recognizes the Olympics could act as an accelerator. So much so that a capsule collection will be released in February in conjunction with the Games. It will consist of a T-shirt, a quarter-zip sweatshirt and a jacket. Final details: The fabrics used by Springart originate from Europe and the design and production are 100% Trojan. Keep your eyes peeled as the Springboks attack the capital.