P1380711 Paris III passage Ancre rwk by Wikimedia Commons
Housing the world’s most eclectic collection of umbrellas, Pep’s does not offer run of the mill rain-stoppers. Instead, the shop is dedicated to repairing discarded umbrellas to their former beauty, rather than leaving them to be forgotten to the literal dustbin of history. And they are making an impression. The shop is responsible for salvaging and reintroducing 10,000 umbrellas back into the French economy every year. Pep’s carries its name from the French slang term for umbrellas. While the art of repairing umbrellas is an older occupation, it is one that is almost lost in the modern world. Pep’s restores not only umbrellas, but a proud tradition that has its roots in ancient China. The shop is full of vibrant colors and intricate designs as a variety of umbrellas line the walls and shelves in a dazzling display of choices. Each customer leaves Pep’s feeling like they have a unique product that nobody else will be carrying around.