As part of its Zazzle Heart program, Zazzle is launching a partnership with Kenya's Ubuntu Life, the maker of the Afridrille, the world’s first custom espadrille that's handmade-to-order in Africa. Now on Zazzle, customers can use a proprietary tool to create a shoe to with a customized exterior print and inner lining to suit their own personal style. The shoes are crafted and sourced with natural, local materials and hand-sewn by Maker Mums, a community of skilled Kenyan artists and Maasai tribes-women, all of whom are mothers to kids with special needs.
With this partnership, Zazzle is not only giving customers an effortless way to create pieces that match their personal style but also help to contribute to a thriving community with sustainable wages—notably, Ubuntu Life pays above-market wages.
Customizable African Shoes
Zazzle & Ubuntu Life are Amplifying Customization & Community Support
Trend Themes
1. Handmade-to-order - Businesses can offer handmade-to-order products to attract customers looking for personalized, unique products while supporting local communities.
2. Proprietary Customization Tools - Developing proprietary customization tools can provide customers with a easy and engaging way to design products, increasing brand loyalty and customer satisfaction.
3. Sustainable Wages - Offering sustainable wages to local craftsmen can promote ethical consumerism and contribute towards building sustainable, thriving communities.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - Fashion companies can utilize handmade-to-order and proprietary customization tools to stay ahead of the competition and appeal to customers looking for unique, personalized products.
2. E-commerce - E-commerce companies can incorporate handmade-to-order and customization tools to differentiate their offerings and increase brand loyalty, providing customers with a more personalized experience.
3. Social Enterprise - Social enterprises can utilize sustainable wage structures to provide local artisans with a dignified source of income while helping to create thriving, self-sufficient communities.