Vivobarefoot has obtained B Corporation certification, which is granted to businesses that “meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose,” according to B Lab, the non-profit organization that manages the certification scheme. It was given a high ranking, close to those of Allbirds, Toms or Veja in the footwear category. The brand uses recycled plastic bottles, bio-based materials and leather sourced from independent farmers in Africa. Next year, it will be launching 3D shoe-printing for a made-to-order service that cuts waste and addresses the issue of excess inventory. The firm also set up a re-commerce site, Revivo, that enables returned shoes to be reconditioned and sold at a lower price. Vivobarefoot’s new shoes retail around £150 a pair. Known for its minimalistic “natural” shoes for walking, hiking and running, Vivobarefoot was founded by its chief executive, Galahad Clark, a sixth-generation member of the Clarks’ shoe-making dynasty. Last year, the company posted sales of £26.2 million (€28.3m-$33.5m).
