At Cristel®, our commitment to French craftsmanship and ethical values has defined us for over two centuries. With a focus on quality, sustainability, and innovation, we create cookware that stands the test of time, offering unparalleled performance and elegance in every piece.
Cristel® places the pursuit of excellence and a quality ethic at the heart of its values, both in the manufacturing of its products and in terms of the relationship with its customers and the quality of the working conditions of its collaborators.
Cristel® develops a policy and strategy based on clearly defined and respected values that make it a great reference in the world of culinary arts and tableware.
“When I take my checkered block and my pencil to outline the contours of a new line of products it is because the product has already taken shape in my imagination by intuition or a combination of influences and needs. If the product, by its aestheticism and its originality, must please and attract the potential user, it is above all a tool which, with the use, must give full satisfaction by its qualities: ergonomics, performance, durability, security, easy maintenance and storage.”
- Paul Dodane
(Co-Founder and Designer)
Permanent energy balance; 100% of the electricity consumed comes from renewable sources.
Wastewater recycling for a reduced consumption of about 50% at the manufacturing site.
97% of the waste generated by Cristel®’s activity is recycled, and we participate in a national waste reduction program.
The 4 main Cristel® collections are OFG (Origine France Garantie), certified by Véritas. The raw material used for the production of Cristel® products comes from the best grades guaranteeing a perfect food neutrality. We apply in France non-stick on Cristel® articles.
1826 TO 1880
Founded by visionary entrepreneur Frédéric Japy, our story began in 1826 with a dedication to innovation that reshaped French manufacturing. From the first stamped French saucepan in 1830 to an array of successful creations, our Fesches-le-Châtel factory became a symbol of craftsmanship and ingenuity. Today, Cristel® proudly carries forward this legacy, merging tradition with modern precision in every piece we create.
1880 TO 1983
Following the disruption of two World Wars, Cristel® faced new challenges in the rapidly changing mid-20th century. By the early 1980s, with the original factory shut down, a group of determined former employees reignited hope, reopening the doors and breathing life back into Fesches-le-Châtel. United by a belief in Cristel®’s legacy, they chose a new name and a fresh start, though the journey was far from over.
1984-1987
When I take my checkered block and my pencil to outline the contours of a new line of products it is because the product has already taken shape in my imagination by intuition or a combination of influences and needs. If the product, by its aestheticism and its originality, must please and attract the potential user, it is above all a tool which, with the use, must give full satisfaction by its qualities: ergonomics, performance, durability, security, easy maintenance and storage.
With the groundbreaking Cook & Serve concept, Paul Dodane transformed Cristel® cookware into elegant, versatile pieces worthy of both kitchen and table. The introduction of removable handles brought new sophistication, making Cristel® a staple in fine boutiques and among culinary professionals. This innovation, paired with an unwavering commitment to quality, secured Cristel®’s place in the world of premium cookware.
As Cristel®’s reputation grew, tableware boutiques and premier Parisian stores welcomed the brand’s innovative cookware. With Paul Dodane’s strategic direction and Bernadette Dodane’s dedicated ambassadorship, Cristel® quickly became a leader in the French market and gained international acclaim, particularly in Japan, where its blend of French elegance and ergonomic design resonated deeply.
Driven by the success of the Cook & Serve concept, Cristel® continued to push boundaries with new technologies, including induction compatibility. In partnership with industry leaders, Cristel® led advancements in stainless steel cookware, setting new standards in quality and performance. The decade also marked a new chapter with Emmanuel Brugger’s entry, bringing technological expertise that modernized production and secured Cristel®’s place at the forefront of innovation.
As Cristel®’s reputation grew, tableware boutiques and premier Parisian stores welcomed the brand’s innovative cookware. With Paul Dodane’s strategic direction and Bernadette Dodane’s dedicated ambassadorship, Cristel® quickly became a leader in the French market and gained international acclaim, particularly in Japan, where its blend of French elegance and ergonomic design resonated deeply.
Rooted in tradition yet driven by innovation, Cristel® continues to uphold its legacy of excellence and craftsmanship. Celebrated for beauty, quality, and thoughtful design, Cristel® cookware reflects the heart and soul of a company with a proud history and a vision for the future. Our enduring commitment remains the same: to offer only the best for every kitchen.
At Cristel®, transformation is at the heart of everything we do. We take pride in crafting cookware that elevates cooking and embraces sustainability, with a commitment to our world, our community, and future generations. Driven by purpose, we aim to make a positive impact every day—because creating lasting change is as essential to us as crafting exceptional cookware.”
Guided by a commitment to meaningful work, local craftsmanship, and environmental stewardship, Cristel® is dedicated to creating a positive impact. We strive to foster professional fulfillment for our team, champion sustainable practices, and share our values of responsibility and quality with the world. Every product embodies a French approach to life—enhancing flavor, preserving health, and respecting our planet.”
All our documents are printed on PEFC paper, ensuring sustainable forest management.
Heat energy is recovered from compressors to heat workshops.
All our stainless steel products benefit from a lifetime warranty covering all manufacturing defects..
From exceptional design to unmatched quality, Cristel® has earned over 30 prestigious awards for its French-made cookware. These accolades honor our commitment to excellence and innovation in every utensil.
With over 90% of production crafted in-house, Cristel® is a true emblem of French excellence, certified by Origine France Garantie. Every piece, whether produced in our Fesches-le-Châtel factory or crafted to our strict specifications, meets Cristel®’s high standards of quality and carries our trusted warranty.