Veja

Based in France, Veja produces sneakers using recycled polyester fabrics, wild rubber, and organic cotton. To date, the brand has sold 3.5 million pairs of rubber-soled sneakers and has developed a reputation, being championed by celebrities such as Meghan Markle and Emma Watson. The company has grown organically with EUR 14,000 (USD 16,900) of self-funding and a further EUR 15,000 (USD 18,150) from a bank loan. The company’s revenue was reported to be at EUR 60 million (USD 72.6 million) in 2019, up from EUR 12 million (USD 14.5 million) in 2016.

Veja’s shoes are made using three materials: wild rubber, B-mesh, made from recycled bottles, and agro-ecological cotton. Veja has 11 styles of shoes in its portfolio, and is looking to venture into the performance footwear market as well, having focused on the fashion sneaker segment thus far. In September 2019, Veja launched the company’s first sustainable running shoe. The company sells its shoes online through its Veja Store and also via retailers such as Reformation. In April 2021, Veja released a sneaker as its fourth collaboration with the American fashion designer Rick Owen. The top of the sneaker contains 100% recycled polyester, while the midsole comprises 57% sugar cane, 5% banana oil, 30% Amazonian rubber, and 31% rice waste.