The Peugeot family of Valentigney, Montbéliard, Franche-Comté, France, began in the manufacturing business in the 1700s. In 1842 they added production of coffee, pepper, salt and grinders.

The company's entry into the vehicle market was by means of crinoline dresses, which used steel rods, leading to umbrella frames, saw blades, wire wheels, and ultimately bicycles.