Creative and fun, the accessories crafted by the company Ciao Ciao are born from the concept of circular production. Using scraps of leather from the Montreal fashion industry, the company creates products ranging from bags to hats with extravagant designs.

Operating in small production batches, Ciao Ciao aims to maintain minimal inventory. The entire production takes place in its workshop on Gaspé Street, which facilitates efficient waste management. Natural materials are sorted to recycle cotton scraps after cutting, transforming them into paper through the services of a specialized company.

‍

Ciao Ciao does not compromise on the sustainability of the materials used or the longevity of the products. The assembly techniques ensure the production of high-quality accessories. The company also offers repair and maintenance services to cherish its products for as long as possible.

The goal of being zero waste is challenging for Ciao Ciao. As the company does not have access to reasonable prices and quantities of natural fabrics, it must turn to other types of materials for its productions. The difficult, if not impossible, traceability of these materials makes it challenging for the company to achieve the level of transparency it desires.

‍

The characteristics of natural and biodegradable materials do not always align with the durability desired by Ciao Ciao. Its textile choices are made to prioritize the longevity of its accessories. Since its foundation, Ciao Ciao has valued sustainable development by making decisions that aim for continuous improvement of its eco-friendly practices. The company has been able to rely on the collaboration of several Montreal-based businesses for leather supply, such as  Atelier Hotel Motel  and Veinage. It has also been greatly inspired by other circular economy projects led by the CTTÉI (Industrial Ecology Technology Transfer Center).

Among its future strategies, Ciao Ciao aims to improve efficiency in the cutting of scraps and resolve supply challenges. The company has also taken on the mission of popularizing the principles of eco-responsibility further, to inform and educate its entire customer base.

‍

‍

With a playful brand image, the company aims to connect design, ecology, and fun. By continuing to expand its knowledge base in ecology, Ciao Ciao seeks to minimize its waste production as much as possible, with a zero waste perspective.

The distribution of this article is made possible by the contribution of Détail Québec, the retail sectoral workforce committee.

‍