Freitag's Container Tower Flagship in Zurich Celebrates 20 Years

Freitag, the Swiss bag manufacturer, launched its first flagship store in Zurich two decades ago, built from 19 retired shipping containers. Collaborating with Spillman Eschle architects, they placed the store in a former industrial area near the Hardbrücke road bridge, only 150 meters from their bag production site. This strategic choice allowed easy access to the heavy-duty tarpaulins that define their unique bags. After six months of setup using containers from Hamburg, the store quickly gained international attention, featured in notable design magazines like Wallpaper* in September 2006. Originally intended as a temporary structure, it became permanent in 2014, with significant renovations completed in 2019. Recent updates include solar panels and a Repair Studio, launched in 2025. The area has since flourished with bars and vintage shops, and the company now uses materials like car seat belts and ski boots. To celebrate its anniversary, the store is showcasing an exhibition called 'A Second Life,' highlighting its impact on the circular economy, located at Geroldstrasse 17, 8005, Zürich.