Eco-Friendly Bio Leather Bags Production | ASK Scandinavia

Embarking on a groundbreaking collaboration, ASK Scandinavia ◣ agood company has allied in the battle against environmental harm caused by everyday products. Based in Helsinki, ASK Scandinavia, founded by Karoliina Bärlund in 2017, stands as a premium brand in the fashion realm. Renowned for its responsible and timeless design, this female-led brand introduces a diverse collection of eco-friendly bags, including handbags, tote bags, and weekender travel bags. Crafted in Finland and Estonia, these bags are versatile and have unisex appeal, reflecting ASK Scandinavia's commitment to redefining the fashion landscape with eco-conscious choices.

Reducing the environmental footprint with sustainable materials:

ASK Scandinavia's dedication to reducing the environmental footprint shines through in their collection of sustainable bags, crafted from circular materials like ECONYL® and MIRUM®. The bag linings, made from GRS-certified recycled polyester or GOTS-certified organic cotton, further underscore the brand's commitment to high-quality and eco-conscious choices. ECONYL® fiber is a 100% regenerated nylon made from discarded materials like fishing nets and industrial plastic, which embodies the brand's vision of responsible fashion. MIRUM® is a cruelty-free and 100% plastic-free bio-leather alternative, reinforcing the brand's dedication to circular fashion.

ASK Scandinavia's production process:

Delve deeper into these questions to make yourself informed of ASK Scandinavia's production process and materials, or explore general inquiries to enhance your understanding of their sustainable ethos.

Let's get to some fast facts for start.
1. What certifications does the factory hold regarding quality standards, sustainability, or ethical manufacturing practices?
2. Can you highlight 2-3 ongoing initiatives or improvements being worked on within the factory?
3. How and where do you source raw materials for your factory's production process?
4. Can you describe the sustainability practices in your manufacturing process, are there specific initiatives or practices in place to reduce environmental impact?
5. How do you ensure the ethical treatment of workers in your factory, including fair wages and work benefits?
6. Could you elaborate on any specific measures your factory has implemented to reduce its carbon footprint?
7. In terms of energy consumption, what sources does your factory rely on for powering its operations?
8. Are there any initiatives or partnerships your factory engages in to support the local community or contribute to social causes?
9. Can you provide some background information about the owner(s) of the factory?

Let's get to some fast facts for start.

Factory Name: Bellini
Location: Italy
Year Established: The Bellini Family started braiding straw for hats and handbags in Florence in the late 1800’s. Today Bellini handbags are still manufactured in Florence, Italy with very detailed workmanship.
Number of Employees: 8
Source of Electricity (Renewable/Non-renewable): Mixed renewable
Factory Opening Hours: The factory runs 8:30am-12:30, 1:30-6pm, in single shifts
When was the last inspection made: We receive inspections by regional labour and environmental authoorities randomly about twice a year.
Code of conduct signed? [IN PROGRESS]

1. What certifications does the factory hold regarding quality standards, sustainability, or ethical manufacturing practices?

We do not hold not mandatory certifications yet. Because they are not quite meaningful in countries like Italy where regulations for anything are very strict and enforced. Also they are very expensive to obtain and most of our customers are not willing to pay the extra cost that we would have to charge on the products because of this.

2. Can you highlight 2-3 ongoing initiatives or improvements being worked on within the factory?

Possible development of a dedicated prototyping workshop within the factory.

3. How and where do you source raw materials for your factory's production process?

We source leather materials from tanneries like Mastrotto and faeda, and metal fittings from distributors like Senatori.

4. Can you describe the sustainability practices in your manufacturing process, are there specific initiatives or practices in place to reduce environmental impact?

Our type of manufacturing has a very limited impact, to begin with, we just use a few sewing machines and cutting presses. Led lighting has been installed throughout the factory. Scrap leather, paper, etc are collected for recycling by specialist companies (this is mandatory in Italy).

5. How do you ensure the ethical treatment of workers in your factory, including fair wages and work benefits?

This is all prescribed by law, Italy has some of the most stringent labor laws and is heavily enforced. This is one of the reasons our labor is so expensive.

6. Could you elaborate on any specific measures your factory has implemented to reduce its carbon footprint?

As mentioned above, the very nature of our manufacturing process uses very limited energy, there are few margins left for further improvement.

7. In terms of energy consumption, what sources does your factory rely on for powering its operations?

Our utility supplier uses a mix of renewable and non-renewable sources.

8. Are there any initiatives or partnerships your factory engages in to support the local community or contribute to social causes?

We are members of the local chamber of commerce and industrial associations which promote several activities, as well as support organizations like Unicef and Save the Children.

9. Can you provide some background information about the owner(s) of the factory?

Marino Caliterna, owner of Italia Consultant, is a dual citizen, Italian and British. Formerly a US resident, has extensive experience in cultural and business issues between Italy, the United States, and Japan. We are a small business and choose to stay so to offer our clients a complete and personal service. Our premises are conveniently located close to the center of Florence. Italia Consultant has been doing business internationally for over 18 years. In the process, working also with Global 500 and Fortune 500 companies as well as government and international institutions.