Bach History
1979
Everything starts in May 1979, when our "Great Bach Packing and Construction Company" was founded in a shed in Waterford, Ireland. A few old machines from Camp Trails and its customers’ address book were the start-up capital.
1982
In our early days, we developed the Orthoflex back system and patented one of the first functioning internal frame carrying systems for backpacks - a massive innovation at that time. Alongside, we also produced backpacks on behalf of third parties such as Lowe Alpine and The North Face. But despite all, in September 1989, a good ten years after our foundation, we were on the verge of going out of business.
1990
Firstly, we got support from a Swiss investor, then Martin Wiesmann, a Swiss mountain guide and backpack freak, moved to Ireland to join us. They together developed the foundation for which BACH is known today: reduced design, robust materials, and adjustable fit. The small but fine collection continued to be produced in Kilkenny. We were growing slowly, but solidly. However, growth also means changes and with a heavy heart and due to economic pressure, we decided to move parts of the production from Ireland to Asia. We were probably one of the last European brands.
1998
We relocated our base to Wiesendangen, Switzerland. This is were the creation continued: the design and development, manufacturing coordination, marketing, and prototype production. Our BACH backpacks became increasingly popular and well-known for their clean design, quality craftsmanship, and perfect fit.
2000s
It soon became clear that there are many advantages to producing in Vietnam. Despite the distance and cultural differences, we learned to work together on new concepts and prototypes, and the results slowly began to show. Our hard work was worth it and the 3D Smart Divider and the Weatherproof concept received several awards. We started to strengthen our international position by selling backpacks in the USA and Japan.
2019
After 40 years in business, we agreed to join forces with the SCOTT Sports group. We were already well established in the world of technical bags and travel equipment and this was an important step to strengthen our global position and further expand international distribution. The first idea to expand the range of products began to sprout. We started a new chapter by acquiring the products and production details from a Dutch manufacturer - Nigor Tents & Furniture and developing - top of the range products with important performance levels.
2022
BACH backpacks was ready for a new chapter and the brand BACH Equipment was born. We proudly went to market with improved versions of former Nigor nylon tents and aluminium furniture. Besides that, we introduced a new collection of functional trekking, hiking, travel and everyday backpacks with thoughtful design and unparalleled durability.
2024
In addition to the durable and versatile backpacks and bags, the BACH collection includes now strong and lightweight tents, bivi bags and camping chairs. In 2024, we are proud to announce our new portfolio of sleep systems – sleeping bags and already award-winning sleeping pads, made from the finest recycled materials. All created, and developed by a team of outdoor lovers that continuously test their prototypes in the roughest environment.
To be continued…