About Us

Gene's Luggage and Travelware, in Valencia, California, has been open since 2001, but the laying of its foundation began in 1974, when it's owner and founder, Gene Dietzgen, came west from Chicago. At 18, Gene landed his first job in Southern California at Beverly Hills Luggage. He was in and out of the baggage business for the next twelve years, until he finally realized the fun and romance of the travel goods industry and that he was in it for good! Gene then spent 22 years working for or managing local luggage stores.

"I opened my own store one week after 911, in 2001. I had spent a year in the planning and development of Gene's Luggage and Travelware. I watched as our location was built from the ground up. After opening, my neighbors and potential customers were stopping by the first few weeks with their condolences that I wouldn't survive the post 911 travel slump!" Gene said, when asked about those early days. "They were very nice, but very sure I wouldn't last a year! Eventually, nearly 400 independent luggage dealers in the U.S. did go out of business."

"But my customers-to-be didn't know what I knew, which was that, as a new business, I didn't have the dead weight, the backrooms of old, unsold merchandise, and the old-fashioned ideas of long established stores. I was an upstart, an attitude which has worked for me in my business. I want to bring fresh ideas my customers."

The brick and mortar store, Gene's Luggage and Travelware, opened on Cinema Drive, in the prosperous community of Valencia, California. His goal was to carry only top luggage and business case brands, not overpriced Rodeo Drive designer brands, but beautiful, practical, well made, and affordable merchandise. His goal was to add a balanced mix of fun gifts and fine personal leather goods, as well as a great assortment of the most-asked-for travel accessories. His goal was to provide exceptional, personal customer service, and extras not always available, such as luggage repair, leather monogramming, nationwide shipping, and free gift wrapping.

Gene's Luggage and Travelware has one remaining goal, to give its internet customers the same great service and the same great merchandise that its in-store customers already enjoy! Gene and his staff pride themselves on delivering personalized service and the best bang for your buck, whether you buy online or in-store. And questions are always welcome! Gene is an expert in his field with over 20 plus years in the baggage and travel merchandise biz. He considers it his pleasure to make you feel like an expert too!