What inspired you to start your business/brand?

At Sophos, we've been making all kinds of accessories since 1886 and are a lovely, local family-run business. With all those years under our belt, we've picked up lots of knowledge and expertise. We've kept things fresh, evolving and expanding our ranges into the fantastic lifestyle brand you see today!

 

What are your brand’s values?

Heritage – we are proud of our original manufacturing roots, and are still based in Rutland, the smallest county in the UK.

Products for what you do - designed for constant use, seamlessly transitioning from daily commutes to weekend adventures. Combining urban style with rugged outdoor durability, they look equally at home in the city or the great outdoors!

Ethical Practice - committed to being environmentally and culturally responsible

 

What is your biggest motivation?

We want you to get the most out of our products, by buying well and buying once! We’re all about making sure you get a great product at a great price. Our designers are into the same stuff that you are, so they know exactly what you want!

 

Where did the inspiration for your product(s) come from?

We live and breathe the Sophos lifestyle, whether that’s a weekend away in the great outdoors or a simple commute into the city - our inspiration comes straight from real life! What may seem an everyday task can spark ideas and make us ask, ‘How can we make this better and easier?’

 

What has been a highlight whilst creating and building your brand?

It’s awesome to see people coming back for more! We love seeing stores and customers adding to their initial buys and expanding their ranges season on season. It means we're hitting the mark with products that fit their lives and style just right. It’s a huge boost for us, and we really pay attention to what our customers say. Often, it’s their creative ideas that help us tweak and improve our products and processes.

 

What advice would you give to business owners, creators, designers and brand owners just starting out?

It takes time! Don’t expect results overnight. Make sure what your making is a passion, and you will find it comes to fruition quicker than you may expect!

 

At the Spring/Summer edition of Top Drawer, will you be launching any new collections and if so, can you give us a sneak peek? 

We have recently launched our new collection of ripstop cotton bags and matching accessories. Featuring colorful lightweight backpacks and handy everyday cross body bags with complimentary accessories including corduroy caps and bucket hats. The range is colourful, practical and all the items make great gifts (for yourself or others!)

 

What is your personal favourite from your new collection? 

We love our hero multi-coloured ripstop cotton rucksack! It’s bright, functional, shower resistant and the best travelling companion for any trip, be that a commute to work or exploring the world.

 

If applicable, how do you operate your brand sustainably?

We're committed to being as sustainable and culturally responsible as we can. Whilst we’re not (yet!) perfect and don’t have all the answers, we're genuinely working towards positive change. We’ve eliminated plastic from our packaging, use vegetable dyes instead of heavy metals for tanning leather, and thoroughly audit our factories and test our products. We also support local charities and businesses. Plus, we’re on the path to becoming B-Corp certified and will keep you updated on our progress.