Supporting small businesses and craftspeople is one of the most crucial aspects of having a successful economy -- whether it is on a micro or macro scale. Toronto-based BRIKA is a brick and mortar space with an accompanying e-commerce site that promotes and sells the work of artists, craftspeople and creators.
The brand curates a large selection of artisanal products that include everything from home items such as art, prints, furniture and décor, to clothing and products for children – along with jewelry and various accessories for both men and women. BRIKA’s website spotlights a new ‘Maker’ each day and allows those who use the service to shop for whichever home items or fashion accessories the Maker has created. The brand is part of the innovation accelerator ‘Highline’s’ portfolio, which searches for and funds various new ventures and startup companies.
By curating and supporting the work of small businesses, craftspeople, makers and creatives, BRIKA is able to uplift people in industries that are competing with much larger brands – which tend to have a financial and marketing advantage. The resulting exchange is more impactful for both the consumer and the creator – with the former having access to small-scale artisanal products that are high in quality, and the latter having a format through which their work can be accessed by a larger consumer base.
Artisanal Craft Marketplaces
'BRIKA' Sells Modern Crafts Made by Various Artisans
Trend Themes
1. Artisanal Marketplaces - The rise of artisanal craft marketplaces creates an opportunity for small-scale producers and makers to showcase their products and connect with a global consumer base.
2. Curated E-commerce - Curated e-commerce sites like BRIKA allow consumers to browse and buy unique artisanal products from multiple creators, providing creators with an effective platform to showcase and sell their work.
3. Innovation Accelerators - Innovation accelerators like Highline are posed to become an attractive option for investors looking to fund new ventures and startups from various industries.
Industry Implications
1. Crafts and Artisanal Goods - The demand for artisanal goods creates opportunities for small-scale craft makers to market their unique products in niche markets and compete with larger brands.
2. E-commerce - The shift towards e-commerce and online marketplaces creates opportunities for curated platforms that connect consumers with unique artisanal products from multiple creators in one convenient location.
3. Venture Capital - The growth of innovation accelerators creates opportunities for venture capitalists to invest in new ventures and startups from various industries and support their growth and development.