DOLÉ MACHINE & DYEING
Where the 1940s were characterized by war and restrictions, the 1950s were characterized by progress and renewal. As the first and only glove factory in Denmark, Randers Handskefabrik acquired a dolé machine in 1950, which could mechanically plane the glove skins down to the right thickness. The machine led to a major rationalization of production and was the first major technological development within the industry since the punching machine was introduced around 1850 and the glove sewing machine in 1870.
In an attempt to reduce the company's stock of ready-tanned hides, both tannery and dyeing were re-established at the factory by Arne Vejrum after his tanner training in Switzerland, England and especially in Millau, France. An extensive project that was worked on until the early 1960s, when it was finally put into use.
WHOLESALE & PRODUCTION BUSINESS
The company's import of gloves really took off in the 1950s, and Randers Handskefabrik started to not only be a production company, but also selling wholesale. The imported gloves came mainly from Italy, where the wages were significantly lower than in Denmark. Ejnar Vejrum did not believe that the increasing imports undermined the industry's raison d'être. On the other hand, it was unwise to manufacture types of gloves that foreign countries could produce more cheaply, and thus sell to customers at a better price. A discussion that still takes place in all industries today.
THE ICONIC DRIVING GLOVE
The driving glove with the iconic "holes for the knuckles" was developed in 1957. More households got cars and the need for a functional, quality glove arose. The glove had to ensure the driver a good and secure grip with the feeling of "second skin" and at the same time provide warmth for the hands in the unheated cars.
Read more about our driving gloves HERE
RHANDERS IN THE WORLD
In post-war Denmark, economic development was driven by the European Recovery Program, which supported the development of production and agriculture. This ensured that Denmark and the rest of Europe emerged from the Second World War on a new foundation, which formed the basis for the development boom of the 60s.
Picture: from the movie "Drømmen om det hvide slot", directed by Anker Sørensen, Det Danske Filminstitut, 1962
Exports abroad also experienced a renewed boom with increased cooperation between the Western powers, and Denmark could once again import food, production equipment, clothing and much more, which was welcome after the scarcity of the occupation.
Picture: from the movie "Drømmen om det hvide slot", directed by Anker Sørensen, Det Danske Filminstitut, 1962