Freitag

FREITAG lab. ag, founded in 1993 by brothers Markus and Daniel Freitag in Zurich, Switzerland, is an innovative manufacturer of bags and accessories made from used materials. The first product line consisted of messenger bags made from old truck tarps, bicycle inner tubes, and seat belts. These unique bags, such as the iconic F13 TOP CAT, were developed in the brothers' shared kitchen and quickly became a cult product[1][4].

Today, FREITAG's range includes a variety of products, including backpacks, crossbody bags, and various accessories. Each product is unique, thanks to the use of recycled materials such as truck tarps, bicycle inner tubes, and seat belts. In addition to these classic materials, PET bottles, airbags, and worn-out ski boots are also integrated[4].

The mission of FREITAG is to promote conscious, meaningful production and consumption. The company is committed to a resource-light society and strives for efficient and transparent use of natural resources throughout the entire value chain. FREITAG aims to provide practical products and services in a particularly environmentally friendly manner and to show consumers alternatives to conventional consumption[3][4].

FREITAG is deeply rooted in the circular economy. The company processes 640 tons of truck tarps, 11,000 bicycle inner tubes, and 150,000 seat belts annually. By using recycled materials and developing compostable fabrics, such as the F-ABRIC line, FREITAG actively contributes to waste reduction and environmental protection[1][3].

Additionally, FREITAG offers various services to extend the lifespan of products, such as repair services, a S.W.A.P. exchange program, and the opportunity to design custom bags. Initiatives like "No to Black Friday" and bag rental programs underscore the company's commitment to a circular future[4].

FREITAG lab. ag has had a holacratic corporate structure since 2016, based on self-organization and collective leadership. The company is based in Zurich-Oerlikon and employs over 250 people worldwide. FREITAG operates 29 of its own stores in various countries and collaborates with over 260 sales partners in 23 countries. Production takes place in Switzerland as well as in external sewing workshops in Bulgaria, Portugal, the Czech Republic, and Romania[1][2][4].

FREITAG remains a pioneer in the circular economy and sets standards for sustainable consumption with innovative products and services.

• 1 - https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freitag_lab._ag
• 2 - https://media.freitag.ch/sites/default/files/230927_freitag_impact_report_2022_de.pdf
• 3 - https://goodjobs.eu/company/freitag-lab-ag
• 4 - https://media.freitag.ch/ko/media/about/company
• 5 - https://media.freitag.ch/de