Zig-Zag Cut Corners Rolling Papers

Zig-Zag is a historic brand of rolling papers that originated in France in 1879. The brand was founded by brothers Maurice and Jacques Braunstein, who developed the innovative interleaved packaging system that is still in use today. The iconic 'Le Zouave' logo, featured on the packaging, depicts a French soldier from the Crimean War who is said to have used a piece of paper from a gunpowder bag to roll a cigarette after his pipe was broken by a bullet.

While the brand has deep French roots, its ownership is split geographically. Republic Technologies International (a subsidiary of Republic Tobacco) handles the brand in Europe and many international markets, while Turning Point Brands (formerly North Atlantic Trading Company) controls the trademark in North America through a long-standing licensing agreement with Republic. Most Zig-Zag papers continue to be manufactured in France by Republic Technologies using high-quality natural flax fibers and gum arabic.