Sisam fair trade + design

Sisam fair trade + design is considered a pioneer in Fair Trade in Japan, having been around since 1999. And one of the things we like about Sisam is the range of products available, from fashion to food to interior products. It addresses an issue of “no sustainable option” around customers.

Sisam stores offer a wide range of fair trade products, although it is mainly recognized as an apparel shop. In addition, they have recently been certified as a Zero Waste Apparel Store, the fourth in Japan to achieve such certification.

We were particularly impressed with Kyoto’s Sisam shop at Ura Teradori. Its clear message is a contemporary one, probing passersby, “What you buy is what you vote.” It is a thought-provoking line that makes sense in this climate and in this climate crisis.

A wide range of clothes is available: women’s, men’s, shoes, accessories, and more. They come from various countries, including India, Thailand and the Philippines, including brands like Mahaguthi, The Third World Shop and, of course, Sisam’s original brand Fair Trade World Map at Sisam.

Sisam also carries other ranges of ethical products. The back half of the supports fair trade brands who make non-fashion products. These include racks, toiletries, utensils and food. Even some of the ethical handmade lampshades available for sale (CCAP from the Philippines) are used to light the shop’s interiors. Food products are also available at Sisam.

Part of sustainability includes making purchases that benefit society. And Sisam is one of those businesses making it easy to learn about the origin story of the products we use. There are story tags on products that Sisam carry, sharing where the products come from and made by who. It also conveys transparency for customers.

Sisam is also role model of sustainability for other businesses. They have achieved their Zero Waste Accreditation, which covers all nine standards set by Zero Waste Japan. This makes Sisam a highly circular business! Furthermore, they have just been awarded by the Fairtrade Japan Awards 2023, recognized as a Guaranteed Member of the World Fair Trade Organization, and listed on Good Market.

Sisam is a wholesome brand that is less concerned about expanding, but rather helping customers consume better and to wear responsibly. It is bringing us a solution at an important time when customers are beginning to notice their impact on the world through clothes and more.

For more reading on Sisam fair trade + design, visit Zenbird.Media.

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(updated 6 October 2023)