Pylos59 : More Than a Leather Bag, a Commitment to Community

In an era when the fast-fashion industry is growing through underpaid labor and contributing significantly to environmental degradation, Pylos59 distinguishes itself through its commitment to social responsibility and community involvement. Our people are the beating heart of our company and deserve to be valued and respected by creating a pleasant, safe and healthy working environment and offering opportunities to give back to the community.

Ethical Practices Respected in the Supply Chain

Our commitment to the community begins right at the core of our business – our supply chain.

In the B-Corp process the Impact Business Model we apply for in the Community impact area is: Supply Chain Poverty Alleviation.

This is mostly related to the fact that we only purchase from SA 8000 certified factories. This is the highest possible international certification for the social aspect of the workplace. Factories have to meet strict criteria. Due to the strictness of the controls, we can proudly say that good and responsible working conditions are offered to everyone involved in the production process.

Factories are checked on the following points:

• No form of child labor is allowed
• No forced or compulsory labor.
• The workplace must be a healthy, clean and safe place.
• Workers have the freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining.
• No discrimination of any kind.
• Employees are treated with respect.
• Weekly working hours are in accordance with the law and industry standards.
• The staff is entitled to a living income, with which they can at least meet all basic needs. This is more than the minimum wage.

 

Going Above and Beyond

In addition to the SA8000 guidelines, our manufacturing partners make extra efforts to ensure the well-being and development of their employees.

• Personal development (trainings, book budget, review process)
• Initiatives to promote diversity, inclusion and equality
• Regular employee satisfaction test
• Well-being program (sports, lunch, mental coaching)
• Pension plan
• Extended caregiver leave for women
• Extended caregiver leave for men
• Extended vacation policy
• Social help at the time of need of employees
• Offering opportunities or jobs to people with disabilities.
• Offering opportunities or jobs to people with a migration background.
• Offering disabled people work from home
• Giving financial or in-kind donations to NGO’s or charities

 

Extending Support Beyond the Workplace

Pylos59's definition of community support goes far beyond the factory walls. The company offers a range of programs aimed not only at employees, but also at the wider community.

Volunteering as Team Building

We are keen to give something back to society and enables all employees to volunteer during working hours. Twice a year, the Pylos59 team dedicates half a day to volunteer work.

Financial Contributions to Calcutta Rescue

We have established a long-term partnership with Calcutta Rescue Netherlands.

This organization is committed to improving the health, living conditions and development of the poorest people in Calcutta. Education is the key to a better life, so that is where we are focusing our efforts. Every year we donate a part of our turnover to Calcutta Rescue Netherlands.

Clothing Bank Donations

Unfortunately, it is not financially possible for everyone to be well-dressed and certainly not to buy a leather bag. The Clothing Bank offers a solution for this group.

One of our goals is to donate a substantial proportion of  our samples to the Clothing Bank every year. 

Conclusion : Laying a Foundation of Goodwill

Pylos59 is much more than a business entity; it is a force for good. By setting high standards in work ethics and providing community support through a range of charitable initiatives, Pylos59 demonstrates that ethical business practices and community well-being can go hand in hand.

Every time you choose a leather bag from Pylos59, you make a conscious decision to support a brand committed to doing more for the world. From encouraging the ethical treatment of workers in our supply chain to supporting educational initiatives in Calcutta, your purchase will ensure positive change.

Join us in our mission. Choose more than a bag. Choose a story. Choose Pylos59.