From 1945 to 1984, Bruyere pipes were manufactured by Robert Maderholz, the then-owner of the brand. In 1984, his son Michael Maderholz designed the first machines for filter production. To this day, White Elephant is the only brand worldwide that fills filters with highly absorbent meerschaum granulate (a magnesium silicate from the sepiolite group). Thanks to its porous structure, this material can absorb large amounts of moisture like a sponge. Originally, the meerschaum was imported from Tanzania, but today it comes from Eskisehir in Turkey. The brand name "White Elephant" was quickly established.

Expansion of the Portfolio and Transition to Kopp Filters

Later, the product range was expanded to include activated carbon filters, and in 1999, the production of pipe cleaners began. Due to an unregulated succession, Michael Maderholz sold the company to Kopp Filters.

New Design, Proven Quality

After 35 years, the White Elephant brand is now presented in a completely redesigned look. Despite the new appearance, production remains in Ettenstatt, Bavaria, and adheres to its principle of top quality at fair prices. Now, the products are also environmentally friendly packaged, significantly reducing plastic use.

What Does "Superflow" Mean?

This is often asked when looking at the packaging of the filters. “Superflow" stands for the principle of "less is more". While other manufacturers maximise the absorption surface, often increasing draw resistance, we have reduced the filter content by 15%. The result is a particularly pleasant smoke flow with less draw resistance.

The Revival of Bruyere Pipes

In recent years, pipes have been produced again under the "White Elephant" label. However, these are not made in Bavaria but by renowned pipe manufacturers in Italy. White Elephant pipes are characterised by a good price-performance ratio and exceptional design.

White Elephant: Wide Range of Products

Today, the White Elephant brand unites pipes, leather goods, filters, pipe cleaners, and pipe tobacco under one roof. Kopp Filters plans to further expand the portfolio.