The House of Finnigans was a British luxury luggage and trunk maker established in 1830, originally in Manchester and later in New Bond Street in London.
The House of Finnigans manufactured and produced a wide range of luxury products, including trunks, bags, fashion, jewellery, timepieces, and silverware.
As picnicking became a fashionable outdoor activity, Finnigans elaborated the "Wicker Picnic Basket," which was popular not only among English travelers, but also Indian Rajahs who strapped them on the backs of elephants.
[4] One such item was the "Treble Folding Portmanteau" so constructed that the compartments were accessible at once and entirely distinct from each other, "rendering it unnecessary for luggage being disturbed or moved in passing through the customs.
Opposite Finnigans on Bond Street was Asprey: the two houses enjoyed a friendly rivalry that led to fruitful commercial developments.
The Deansgate store was later enlarged to encompass Finnigan's galleries, including a sports department, fashion and menswear, as well as beauty products.
Among items of the highest luxury was a dressing case to be offered as a present for marriage or a birthday in crocodile skin, with solid gold mountings and tortoiseshell handles.
[8] In the 1930s, Finnigans launched a sports clothing line to fit the new lifestyle of the elite, and especially the vogue of sunbathing and swimming in seaside resorts.
[1] Brian Finnigan expanded the reach of the family business and built up an export market to New York City, Canada, and the Caribbean.
The house also produced high fashion handbags in crocodile lined with suede that were of "lasting luxury.” In 1968, Finnigans closed its New Bond Street store in London.
[1] The house of Finnigans has since changed hands and is now owned by the Luvanis company, which specializes in reviving long-dormant brands, such as Moynat and Belber.