What inspired the creation of your company, and when did it start?

I was inspired by the Maasai tribe during my journey in Tanzania. I saw their slippers and sandals made from worn car tires. As soon as I came back started to collect bicycle tires. My upcycling started in May 2015.

What is your brand’s mission, and what causes drive you and your team?

I upcycle a very tough material which would otherwise end up in landfill. My work can express the magic when the waste becomes street fashion or high end product. The abundance of trash is a tremendous problem for our planet, and we need make more room for ideas that help us get rid of it or those that transform the excess – instead of producing more and more.

How is your brand socially responsible?

Zabo uses only waste tires, which normally would end up in landfill. Every product we make helps save the planet and protect animals.

What does your brand do to lower its ecological impact and/or promote environmental health and well-being?

We work a lot to collect large amount of waste tires, which is maybe the largest collection on the planet now that will be recycled. Only last month we collected approximately 3000 tires which we will use to make our collection.

Does your company perform animal testing and/or use animal-based ingredients in your products? Why or why not?

We don’t use any animal-based ingredient. Our mission is to provide a substitute for leather (i.e., vegan leather).

Where does your company make/manufacture your products, and why?

We are based in Greenwich, the Cadiz Gallery hosts the Zabo Manufacturing.

Describe your design philosophy – how do you balance quality and affordability?

I make goods from street fashion to high end, rock n’roll and underground. Tyre belts can fit anyone, any age, any style. There is something for everyone at affordable prices.

Tell us a little about the ingredients/materials you use. Generally, why did you pick them over other options?

I use only tires and inner tube, mainly bicycle tires. I used them over over options as they were being wasted and i could create beautiful items from them.

What are the next steps for your company?

We started our promotional campaign to spread the word about our upcycled fashion accessories collection. During this time I make new products which are unique and amazing. We are finding new partners and distributors to develop our distribution network. We want to create a global business in 2017.

How do you view the future of conscious consumption?

As the planet has more difficult and irreversible problems, more people will start to pay attention to protect the earth and other species. I wish and hope that every eco-conscious step we take will help to start to rebuild the damage.

As a parting sentiment, if you could only use one word to describe your brand ethos – what would it be?

Eco-friendly