Patagonia: The Story in Short.
Patagonia, founded by Yvon Chouinard in 1973, began with climbing gear and later expanded into clothing. It's known for its commitment to environmental and social responsibility.
Yvon Chouinard started selling climbing gear in 1957 and expanded to clothing in the 1970s due to a lack of durable options, opening Patagonia's first store in 1973.
This led to the opening of Great Pacific Iron Works, Patagonia's first retail store, in 1973, in an old meat-packing plant.
Growth and Focus on Responsibility:
The Patagonia brand officially launched in 1973, differentiating itself from the climbing-specific Chouinard Equipment.Patagonia's commitment to environmental and social responsibility was evident early on, with a focus on using sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing practices.They were an early adopter of organic cotton and began donating 1% of their sales to environmental causes in 1985.
In the 1990s, Patagonia faced economic challenges and had to lay off staff, which prompted a reevaluation of their growth-focused approach, which led to a greater emphasis on sustainability, corporate responsibility, and a more mindful approach to business. Patagonia became a certified B Corp in 2012, further solidifying their commitment to social and environmental responsibility
Continuing the Mission:
Patagonia's mission statement evolved to "We're in business to save our home planet," reflecting their dedication to addressing the climate crisis. The company has continued to advocate for environmental protection, even taking legal action against the government in some cases. In 2022, Yvon Chouinard transferred ownership of Patagonia to a trust and a nonprofit, ensuring the company's long-term commitment to its mission.
