For decades, the skateboard truck market has been dominated by a few American brands. While board and clothing companies constantly emerge and fade, the core truck brands have remained largely unchanged. This makes the emergence of Film Trucks, a startup based in Lyon, France, particularly interesting. Founded by Jeremie Daclin, also the founder of Cliché Skateboards, Film Trucks aims to establish a successful European-based truck company, providing more opportunities for European pros and offering affordable products without inflated overseas costs.
Jeremie Daclin’s vision for Film Trucks is not just about creating a product; it’s about supporting the European skateboarding scene. He wants to make it financially viable for European pros to live off skating and ensure that everyday European skaters have access to quality, affordable equipment. In the three years since its inception, Film has steadily gained recognition, carving out a space in a market long held by established giants.
Jeremie Daclin, founder of Film Trucks, pictured with his company's logo
The Status Quo of Skate Truck Companies
The skate truck industry has seen a long period of dominance by three main companies. According to Daclin, this is partly because “nobody really wants to change it.” He observes that while small board and clothing companies are now considered “cool,” the established truck brands have remained unchanged. However, Daclin is focusing on his own path, not what others are doing.
When asked about potential issues with established truck companies, Daclin laughed and mentioned that Film is still too small to be considered a threat in the US market. He also points out that a single individual owns or has shares in several major truck companies, giving them a significant advantage in the market. This can lead to price manipulation, but Daclin says he is not concerned about it and focuses on building his company.
Breaking the Mold: Film Trucks’ Approach
Daclin emphasizes that his goal with Film Trucks is to offer something different. He points out the difficulties of starting a truck company compared to board companies, where the barrier to entry is much lower due to readily available design software. Creating a truck company involves significant investment in 3D molds for different sizes, adding to the challenge.
Daclin is personally involved in every aspect of the company, from packing orders to sending emails and even skating during lunch breaks. He enjoys being deeply involved, viewing it more as a passion than work. He is 48 years old and has never had to look for a traditional job, which shows his commitment to skateboarding.
A black and white photo of Jeremie Daclin performing a slappy grind.
Before starting Film, Daclin used Independent and Ace trucks. He noticed some areas he wanted to change, like the pivot cup area, which he felt needed to be skinnier to prevent slowing down during tailslides. He also wanted the trucks to be lower than the standard mid-truck height. Film trucks are 53mm high, compared to Independent’s 55mm. He even incorporated the golden ratio into the truck design, embedding a logo at this precise point.
A GIF of a Film truck spinning
The Production Process and Challenges
The process of producing skateboard trucks is expensive, with molds for each size costing between $6,000 and $7,000. A standard truck company typically needs four different sizes, each requiring its own mold, plus one for the baseplate, leading to a significant financial commitment.
Despite some stigma about Chinese manufacturing, Daclin is transparent about having Film trucks made in China, which is where most trucks are produced. He emphasizes that his factory is clean, well-maintained, and treats its workers well. Daclin also supports the 1% For The Planet Program, donating 1% of Film’s revenue to a different non-profit organization each year.
Jeremie Daclin captured in a black and white portrait
The manufacturing process is not the only challenge. Daclin explains that creating trucks involves an industrial process that requires significant knowledge and expertise. This further separates truck companies from board and clothing companies, which tend to be less technically demanding.
A GIF of a Film truck spinning
The Future of Skateboard Trucks and Film’s Role
Daclin hopes to see a rise in new truck companies, similar to the emergence of independent shoe brands. He believes that the diverse range of skateboarders today deserve more options than what’s currently available from a few dominant brands. He views small brands as essential because they drive local events, support local riders, and overall contribute to the growth of skateboarding at the community level.
One point of contention in the industry is that each truck brand has a different size chart. To address this, Film includes size information in both centimeters and inches on the baseplate, making it easier for skate shops to understand and sell their products.
Film is also striving to innovate beyond traditional silver trucks, aiming to be more like a board company by collaborating with artists and other brands, and creating unique designs. Daclin mentions a collaboration with Ed Banger Records, a French electro music label.
Jeremie Daclin performing a slappy grind on a curb
The Global Skateboarding Scene and Its Evolution
Daclin notes that skateboarding is no longer California-centric; it’s now a worldwide phenomenon. The internet has allowed skaters from any city with asphalt to become skilled and recognized. He also mentions that the skateboarding media landscape has shifted from print magazines to platforms like Instagram, with pros required to post frequently to remain relevant.
Daclin avoids mandatory Instagram quotas for his team, believing that it’s more important to foster a love for skateboarding than to focus on social media presence. He values commitment to the sport, and while he understands the importance of having fun, he believes that partying should not take over the skateboarding.
A GIF of a Film truck spinning
Film Trucks and the Market
When asked if Film could match American truck prices, Daclin states that they can compete with Venture, which is known for being a lower-priced truck. He points out that selling directly to customers in Europe allows them to keep prices down, but distribution costs in the US would require comparable pricing to Venture.
The pandemic impacted production, causing slowdowns and price increases across the industry. The demand for skateboards also grew, causing production bottlenecks. Film Trucks has benefited from this situation, due to their affordable prices, the quality of their product, and the appeal of the team, according to Daclin.
Jeremie Daclin mid-slappy, showcasing his unique style
Daclin also stresses the importance of distributors, highlighting the challenges European skate shops face in obtaining American products due to increased demand in America. As a result, many shops are now turning to Film Trucks because it is more accessible.
Film’s trucks are priced between $5 and $10 less than Independent trucks, which are considered very expensive in Europe due to shipping costs. Daclin believes his prices will help people switch from brands like Venture.
A GIF of a Film truck spinning
Daclin’s Perspective
Jeremie Daclin is well-known for his slappy grinds. He explains that as he has gotten older, he is gravitating towards tricks that do not involve jumping. He also emphasizes the importance of continuing to learn new tricks.
When asked about what technology he might like to see in a truck, he humorously suggests one that would always lock into backside smith grinds.
Daclin believes that Film Trucks is the first European truck company, and while he is very proud of his company, he is not one to claim responsibility for the European skateboarding boom. He believes that it is the result of a collective effort.
Conclusion
Film Trucks represents a unique challenge to the established skateboard truck market. With a focus on European skaters, high-quality products, and innovative designs, Film is poised to become a major player in the industry. Jeremie Daclin’s passion and dedication to the sport is clear, and his transparency about manufacturing, pricing, and the company’s mission is refreshing. As the skateboarding world continues to evolve, Film Trucks is definitely a brand to watch. By focusing on quality, affordability, and community, Film is not just changing the game but also helping to grow the sport of skateboarding.
