The importance of responsibility for the Utua brand
We often come across the word responsibility these days. It has become established, especially in corporate communications, and is an important part of a company's identity.
So too in Utua.
For us, responsibility is evident in both big choices and small actions. It is a natural part of our everyday operations, but above all, it is the cornerstone on which our operations are built. Without it, Utua would not be Utua.
Utua's founding story: The roots of responsibility and value choices
When Utua was just a twinkle in Piia Vähäsalo's eye, she made big value choices that are still visible now, 10 years later. Responsibility was one of them. A big whole, but the most important of all.
The fact that our bags will be made in the EU was a clear decision. Asia was immediately ruled out. EU legislation controls the production of leather, so that already created a better starting point for Piia's plans.
Genuine leather was also a given. It is durable, timeless, and natural. The leather used in Utua bags is a by-product of food production, a surplus material, and it is irresponsible to leave it unused.
Butterfly wing effect
What about the world we live in and our own immediate environment? We are currently living locally but globally. The seemingly small choices we make every day have a ripple effect somewhere else on the planet.
Piia's wish was that those involved in the production chain of Utua's products would have good and safe conditions, both in our own region, at the Italian tannery and in the Greek sewing factory. She wanted to know the people who make Utua's story possible and who continue to accompany it. This enables well-being and livelihood for all parties involved.
So many choices have been made, more than can be mentioned here, and almost every day we encounter issues that we need to take a stand on. We stand firmly as Utu people, proud of Piia's values, and we follow the journey of our products from her idea to your hands.
It is important to us to create products that last, save the environment, and are loved by their users.
Best regards: Utualaites
