In an effort to build bridges between the US and Latin America, entrepreneur Sophie Eckrich is helping to bring Latin American craftsmanship to the masses with her fair trade footwear company Teysha. Founded in partnership with Travis Breihan, the brand works to provide consumers with high-quality footwear while simultaneously empowering Latin American artisans.
Unlike many major footwear brands, Teysha works directly with traditional shoe makers and other master artisans from across Latin America. The company has even built its own workshop in Guatemala where its specially crafted shoes are created. The shoes are then sold to consumers at fair trade prices that help the artisans to earn a living wage from their work.
Moreover, it is not just the method of production that is rooted in Latin America. Indeed all of the brand's unique designs are inspire by the colors, textures, and heritage of different Latin American countries.
Heritage-Inspired Footwear Brands
Teysha's Fair Trade Shoes are Crafted by Latin American Artisans
Trend Themes
1. Fair Trade Footwear - Entrepreneurs should consider building fair trade footwear brands, working directly with traditional shoe makers from different regions to increase the value and opportunity for skilled artisans.
2. Artisanal Craftsmanship - Footwear companies can leverage traditional artisans and their time-proven techniques to create products that not only stand-out amongst the competition but also offer one-of-a-kind quality.
3. Sustainable Design Inspiration - Incorporating traditional design elements and cultural references can be a powerful way for footwear brands to differentiate themselves in the market, while promoting social and environmental sustainability practices.
Industry Implications
1. Footwear Manufacturing - Footwear manufacturers could explore opportunities for collaborating with traditional artisans from Latin America to develop fair trade and sustainable product lines.
2. Corporate Social Responsibility - Companies in diverse sectors can follow the fair trade model from Teysha, drawing on a different culture's heritage and collaborating with artisans to build social responsibility into their business models, while delivering unique products.
3. Ethical Fashion Retail - Entrepreneurs can establish single or multi-product lines in the footwear retail market while incorporating ethical and fair trade practices in their supply chain, reaching consumers looking for sustainable, and unique products.