Strengthening Certifications & Communities

It seems to me that heritage brands — especially those who have operated in the US for decades & continue to do so — could look at some of the social impact language being thrown around today as a bit trite.

These are businesses who have worked to employ people in their communities for generations, and as such often understand the value in community and running their businesses fairly. They witness the impact on the environment immediately around them due to their actions, as well as the people who make up their team. For them, "doing the right thing" is built into their long legacy of how they operate. Full stop.

We've come to understand this firsthand as we started working with the team at Maker's Mark. They had recently received their B Corp Certification and were seeking out ways to further live into their values, analyzing each component of the operations and filtering it through the lens of their down-to-earth Kentucky legacy.

We were approached to help them create merchandise for the gift shop at their beautiful distillery, and their online store as well. It seemed simple, matter of fact. If they were going to make a commitment to this certification, they wanted to align with others who shared these values.

But even deeper, it was reminiscent of the values & leadership that got the brand its start.

We have since created more & more categories of merchandise for their shops. With each sale introducing customers to Fair Trade Certified wears & the opportunity to meet the individuals responsible to crafting these items.

There's a reason certain brands have an enduring legacy. We'd argue a large part of accomplishing this happens incrementally over time, as you stay true & honest to who you've always been... and in all ways that people interact with you. From a tour, to a taste, to a t-shirt.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS OF MAKER'S MARK