France is well-known around the world for its luxury goods – think Dior, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton, amongst dozens of others.
Many of these are now owned by a single mogul, Bernard Arnault.
Read more: $193bn: how did this French businessman get so rich?
However, it has plenty of other recognisable brands that feature in the everyday household.
Whether you find these brands in the fridge, cupboard or even the garage, their presence in homes is a mark of the imprint they have left on French culture, and the global pull of the nation in many sectors.
Whilst many different annual lists are compiled that go over shopper’s preferences based on purchasing statistics and questionnaires – as in the article below– there are some perennial favourites.
Read more: Decathlon, Andros, Panzani: what is France's favourite brand?
Below we look at some of the most iconic – how many do you have in your home?
Lacoste
Founded in 1933 by tennis player René Lacoste, this brand is best known for its classic polo shirts and other items of clothing featuring the iconic crocodile logo.
French stars are often used as the face of Lacoste, with actor Pierre Niney the current global ambassador.
Alongside clothing, the brand designs shoes, accessories and fragrances with its sports chic styles recognisable around the world.
Citroën
Citroën is one of France's most beloved car manufacturers and has been making vehicles for over 100 years. It is known for its innovative engineering and distinctive designs.
Models like the 2CV and DS have become cultural icons, symbolising French creativity and flair.
Citroën remains a popular choice today for French drivers, due to its commitment to comfort, technology, and unique style.
Read more: Tree-mendous! Auction of unique wooden Citroën 2CV breaks world record
BN Biscuits
If you have ever set foot in a French supermarket you are likely to have come across BN Biscuits (Biscuiterie Nantaise) a nostalgic snack for many French people, especially children.
The smiling face design of biscuit sandwiches filled with chocolate or jam, BN Biscuits are a beloved treat in France and have been a household staple for generations.
Monoprix
Penned as the French answer to M&S, Monoprix is a popular French retail chain that combines groceries, fashion, beauty, and household items under one roof.
Founded in 1932, you will find at least one Monoprix in most city centres across France, and whilst it might not be the most popular supermarket its touch of class and quality means shoppers tend to go for the occasional visit even if they have another favourite, especially at Christmas.
Read more: Which supermarket do French people prefer for food shopping?
Evian
Sourced from the French Alps, Evian is one of France's most famous mineral water producers and a go-to brand around the world.
The brand's iconic glass and plastic bottles, along with its commitment to sustainability, have made it a favourite choice among the French.
It is also known for its inventive adverts, which have in the past featured breakdancing babies.
Decathlon
While Decathlon shops continue to pop up around the world, the low-cost store dominates the French market.
Founded in 1976, Decathlon offers a wide range of affordable sporting goods and equipment.
With its own brands like Quechua and Domyos, Decathlon caters to all kinds of sports enthusiasts, from beginners to professionals.
It was recently an official partner for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and provided the kit for the volunteers.
There are over 350 Decathlon stores in France.
Ricard
Whilst France is known for its wine production, Ricard is its most famous pastis brand.
Pastis is a type of anise-flavoured aperitif, extremely popular in the south and during the summer months – some in The Connexion office list it amongst their favourite tipples.
Ricard – founded in Marseille in the 1930s by Paul Ricard, and later one of the principal drinks in the Pernot Ricard group – is such a staple that pastis is often just referred to as Ricard, and when ordering a pastis at a bar you will almost always be handed a Ricard.
The brand’s association with leisure, warmth, French conviviality and especially Malrseille and the French Riviera has made it an enduring symbol of southern French culture.
La Vache Qui Rit
La Vache Qui Rit (The Laughing Cow), created in 1921, is one of France's most iconic cheese brands.
Known for its creamy, spreadable cheese wedges, the brand is instantly recognizable by its cheerful laughing cow logo.
It is not as prestigious as some of France’s more famous cheeses, but can often be found in recipes, prized for its mild taste. Children also enjoy the small wedges making them a common sight in lunchboxes or at the table for a goûter.
