France's 'national toy' made in China for over 10 years, still labeled 'Made in France'

A recent report has cast a shadow over one of France's most beloved children's toys, "Sophie la Girafe." For over ten years, this symbol of French craftsmanship has quietly been produced in China, a revelation that challenges the 'Made in France' narrative long associated with the beloved rubber giraffe.

The investigation by Mediapart reveals that Vulli, the company behind Sophie, moved its production lines to China as early as 2013. While a facility in Rumilly, France, remains, it appears to serve primarily as a packaging center for toys manufactured elsewhere. Accounts from former employees suggest this French operation is largely symbolic, with the production line only activated for show when visitors arrive, raising questions about the authenticity of the "Made in France" label.

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This discrepancy is particularly striking given the toy's status as a national icon and its continued marketing with French origins. Vulli's profits have reportedly soared since the shift to Chinese manufacturing, reaching millions of dollars. The company's CEO has described the move as a temporary measure due to delays in a new French factory, yet the prolonged reliance on Chinese production, coupled with the misleading labeling, raises concerns about transparency and the erosion of French manufacturing prestige. The story prompts a reflection on how globalized production impacts national identity and consumer trust in iconic brands.

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Chúng tôi bố trí 4-5 người trong xưởng, các nguyên liệu đã hết hạn. Mọi thứ đều là giả