One lesson I have learned in my research on social innovation is how overcoming constraints – be they embodied in standard business models, consumer perceptions, supply chain relationships, or others – can lead to new ways of thinking, and ultimately innovation. Faced with limitations, instead of being stalled, social entrepreneurs push the boundaries of what is possible, devising innovative solutions that address our societal and environmental challenges in new ways.
Our skilled artisans produce our footwear in the central region of Le Marche, Italy. This area is known around the world for the production of footwear, continuing a tradition that began post World War II when the region’s farmers desired to learn a new craft outside of agricultural farming. The production process behind Prota Fiori shoes is led by hundreds of skilled hands and consists of up to 100 steps.
Marquis: It is great you are so focused on transparency, but can you share more about the circularity standards and certifications behind the materials you are adopting?I seek suppliers with varying degrees and scopes of what can be considered circular and sustainable such as upcycled, recycled, regenerated, biodegradable, bio-based and responsibly sourced materials.
For the stage Prota Fiori is at, we have a well-developed and sophisticated IP portfolio. We have been protecting our creativity since inception with ongoing intellectual property applications, patents pending and trademark applications. Furthermore, our engineering process is imperative to applying the material science innovations to the luxury sector. It is fantastic when a new material is in research and development, but without experts like Prota Fiori pioneering the technology of how to apply and bond the materials with a design team, manufacturers, and quality controllers, the materials will certainly not be adopted quickly enough to slow down fashion’s toxicity.
The cutting process is key and is also done by hand. Depending on the piece of material, the single parts are carefully positioned and cut to precision. Not all sustainable materials are malleable, durable and luxurious. Passing the cutting step and bonding of all of the materials is the initial testament to the quality of the new material.