Already known as a philanthropic brand, TOMS’ Haiti project marks yet another socially conscious business initiative the company has engaged in.
Haiti is a beautiful and yet impoverished country in the Caribbean that holds one of the world’s highest unemployment rates. TOMS has collaborated with The Haiti Artist Collective, which is made of 30 artists aged 18-45, and commissioned them to create limited-edition TOMS shoes.
The Haiti artists have certainly came forward with this and created incredibly gorgeous designs that are sure to sell out fast.
If the sales are made, my hope would be for TOMS to keep this commission in place as long as possible. It is a wonderful opportunity for the talent in Haiti and the outcome is as bright as the artists who create them.
Philanthropic Artistic Shoes
The TOMS Haiti Project Commissioned Artists to Make Limited Edition S
Trend Themes
1. Philanthropic Design Collaborations - The trend of commissioning artists to design products with a philanthropic purpose creates unique opportunities for businesses to create social impact and marketable merchandise.
2. Sustainable Fashion - Incorporating social and environmental responsibility into fashion design and production can be a disruptive innovation opportunity in creating a differentiated brand and meeting consumer demand for ethical consumption.
3. Socially Conscious Consumerism - The trend of social and political awareness in consumer behavior creates a need for businesses to align their values and initiatives with those of their customers to remain relevant and competitive.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - Fashion businesses have the opportunity to incorporate social and environmental responsibility into their design and production processes to meet consumer demand for sustainable and ethical consumption.
2. Art - Collaborations between artists and businesses can create unique products with a philanthropic purpose that supports emerging talent and gives back to communities in need.
3. Social Entrepreneurship - Businesses can create a positive social impact while maintaining profitability by incorporating philanthropic initiatives into their business models and aligning with customer values and needs.