France & Søn

France & Søn is one of the great success stories of Danish modern design, a tale of innovation, resilience and collaboration that helped define Scandinavian style for the world.

In 1936, British businessman Charles W. F. France travelled to Denmark to assist his friend Eric Daverkosen, whose family’s mattress company was struggling. Together they founded France & Daverkosen, but when Daverkosen sadly passed away a year later, the company’s future was uncertain.

During World War II, France was interned in a prisoner-of-war camp, where he began reimagining the business. He conceived the idea of creating modern timber based lounge furniture using the company’s mattress technology to craft soft, comfortable cushions, a simple concept that would later transform Danish furniture.

After the war, France brought this idea to life, combining it with the creativity of Denmark’s leading designers. He also pioneered knock-down construction, an early form of flat-pack design that made furniture easier to export and assemble. This innovation, paired with exceptional craftsmanship, positioned France & Daverkosen at the forefront of Danish modernism. By 1954 France & Daverkosen was exporting 60% of all Danish furniture.

In 1957, Charles France’s son James France joined the business, and the company became France & Søn. Collaborations with designers such as Finn Juhl, Ole Wanscher, Grete Jalk and Arne Vodder produced elegant teak and rosewood furniture admired for its refined proportions and enduring quality. In the late 1960's France & Søn was sold to Paul Cadovious and its name was changed to Cado.

Today, France & Søn pieces are treasured by collectors and design lovers alike, timeless examples of craftsmanship, innovation and the enduring beauty of mid-century Danish design.