Issuu

MAGAZINE THE NEW 2.0 PRODUCTS & MORE INNOVATIONS

ISSUE #4

S / S 2024

Check the GOT BAG NEWS S/S 2024 SEA SHEPHERD Operation in the Baltic Sea TRAVEL REPORT and much more in the magazine

G OT B AG

CONTENT

TABLE OF CONTENT

P 12 –

P 04 –

Bestseller

Preface

P 05 – About us

P 06 –

P 16 –

P 10 –

P 26 –

Supply Chain

Core Colors

New Products

Sea Shepherd: Baltic Sea Campaign

C R E AT E A N I M PA C T

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

P 40 –

P 32 –

Expert Talk

Travel Report

P 36 –

Insights: Product Design

P 44 – Contact

2/3

PREFACE

DEAR GOT BAG PARTNERS, On behalf of the entire team, I would like to express our heartfelt thanks for the fantastic collaboration this past year. We look forward to starting the year 2024 together with you. It isn‘t easy to say in a few lines how grateful we are for your loyalty and the significance each of you holds for our company. Your honest feedback is valuable because we can continually improve through constructive feedback. We are aware that with the multitude of our partners, it‘s only sometimes possible to satisfy everyone. Therefore, I encourage you to share your concerns so that we can find solutions to all challenges together. (Of course, kind words are always welcome too! ;-))

PRODUCT INNOVATIONS & COLOR DROPS This year, there will be six Color Drops, three for each half-year. Additionally, new products such as the PRO PACK (see p.8 in the Lookbook), DAYPACK LOOP (see p.7 in the Lookbook), CURVED BAG and the SQUARE BAG (see p.9 in the Lookbook) will be introduced. We look forward to meeting you at this year‘s fashion fairs or visiting the store to present all the novelties personally.

A SNEAK PEEK INTO 2024: UNVEILING THRILLING COLLABORATIONS! We‘re also bubbling with excitement to spill the beans on our upcoming adventure in 2024.

WHAT’S NEW FOR 2024? CORE COLORS The Core Colors Reef (now Bass), Stingray, and Driftwood are no longer available. The Core Colors for the first half 2024 are Black, Algae, Ocean Blue, Shark, Softshell, Seahorse, Bass, and Scallop. (Details on Core Colors can be found on page 10.)

CORE PRODUCTS Core Products: The ROLLTOP, ROLLTOP LITE, DAYPACK, and HIP BAG are our core products and will be exclusively produced in the 2.0 version from 2024 onwards. (Details on the 2.0 version can be found on page 20.)

TEASER ALERT! This summer, we‘re teaming up with none other than the mighty Jason Momoa! Brace yourselves for a jaw-dropping line of backpacks and accessories as we join forces in the battle against plastic pollution. Get ready for an epic fusion of style, purpose, and impact! Stay tuned for more juicy details over the next few weeks as we unravel the awesomeness that awaits. We‘re gearing up for an exhilarating journey, and we can‘t wait to share it with you! Here‘s to another year of success, collaboration, and making waves together! Cheers from Oregon! Matthias Paisdzior (President) and your GOT BAG Crew

ABOUT US

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

WORLD’S FIRST BACKPACK MADE OF OCEAN IMPACT PLASTIC

Growing up with a deep connection to the sea, GOT BAG founder Benjamin Mandos had the vision to collect and recycle plastic waste from the ocean and coastal areas, transforming them into backpacks and bags. Since 2016, GOT BAG has been pioneering the iconic ROLLTOP, the world’s first backpack made of Ocean Impact Plastic. Through our dedicated clean-up program in Indonesia, we collect plastic from the sea and coastal regions. With an innovative supply chain, we demonstrate holistic approaches to combat plastic in our oceans. Our work aims to raise global awareness about conscious use of natural resources, setting an example for innovative product culture. Together with the GOT BAG community and our timeless, minimalist travel companions, we create a positive impact for both people and the environment.

4/5

SUPPLY CHAIN

H OW EXACT LY AR E T H E G OT BAG S M A N U FACT U R E D? Our supply chain

GERMANY GOT BAG Headquarter

7 7A

1 2 3 4

1 CLEAN-UP-PROGRAM NGO GOT BAG Indonesia Ocean Impact Plastic is collected by local communities in Demak, Jepara, and Bantul on Java

3 UTILIZATION OF OTHER TYPES OF PLASTICS AND PLASTIC OFFSETTING Warehouse in Jepara and Bantul Other types of plastics besides PET are passed on

SORTING AND PRESSING

RECYCLING

Warehouse in Jepara and Bantul

Recycler in Surabaya

Ocean Impact Plastic is sorted by type of plastic

PET is recycled for our production

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

8 UNITED STATES North American Headquarter

7A 6 5

7A 7B

YARN PRODUCTION

A: SEWING AND WELDING

Spinning mill, near Shanghai/China

Near Guangdong, China

rPET pellets are processed into yarn

B: SEWING Near Ho-Chi-Minh, Vietnam

OEKOTEX © STANDARD 100

WEAVING, DYEING, COATING

TRANSPORT

Weaving mill, Shanghai/China area

Shipping of goods to the headquarters

Yarn is woven into fabric and then processed into GOT BAG products

Shipping of goods and further land transport by truck Headquarter Germany: Mainz, RLP Headquarter USA: Beaverton, OR

6/7

SUPPLY CHAIN

SUPPLY CHAIN SUPPLY CHAIN

Who collects the Ocean Impact Plastic? Our clean-up program began in Demak on the north coast of Java. This Indonesian region is located at the mouth of several rivers, which, in addition to the plastic carried into the sea by wind and rain, transport large amounts of plastic waste from the inside to the sea. We now also collect in the regions of Jepara in the north and Bantul on the south coast. The clean-up program includes fishermen, collectors, and partner organizations who collect plastic from the sea, mangrove regions, and coastal areas, like delta regions with rivers. At our Collection Points, villagers who do not have a functioning waste management system can also dispose of their household plastic waste. With the help of these 19 collecting communities, over 900 tons of Ocean Impact Plastic have already been collected. At our foundation Yayasan GOT BAG Indonesia, local participants collect plastic waste and are paid depending on the amount collected. Seven permanent employees take care of the administrative and operational project management on-site.

Why do we sort the Ocean Impact Plastic before processing? There are many different types of plastic. To create a real impact with our clean-up program, we don’t just collect the easily recyclable parts (e.g., PET bottles). Therefore, the collected mix of materials must first be sorted by type of plastic. All recyclable types of plastic (e.g., PET, PP, HDPE, LDPE) are brought to our warehouse in Jepara. There, 12 workers manually sort the material by type of plastic and color and remove labels and caps. Approximately 15% of our Ocean Impact Plastic collected in the clean-up program consists of PET, which we recycle through our partner for use in our production.

What happens to the remaining plastic waste? For some types of plastics that we cannot use for products ourselves, such as PP, HDPE, LDPE, PS, and PC, we are continuously expanding our network with locally based companies that can mechanically recycle them. They are processed into so-called secondary raw materials before they can be used for other, new products. Other types of plastics cannot be processed at all, not with sufficient quality, or only with disproportionately high effort. Currently, we pass them on for thermal recovery, where they are burned as an alternative to fossil fuels to produce energy. Third-party companies can support this form of recycling by purchasing certificates to offset their plastic consumption from our partner Cleanhub. The proceeds are reinvested in the infrastructure of the clean-up program.

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

How is the Ocean Impact Plastic recycled? The raw materials are compressed by two additional workers using a press machine in our warehouse after sorting. The PET material is then transported to our recycling partner in Surabaya. Here, the material is shredded, washed, and extruded into rPET pellets. To meet our need for rPET for the yarn production of our products, we additionally source Ocean Bound Plastic from certified partners in the region.

How is yarn created from the pellets? We process the pellets into 300 denier yarns in a spinning mill. Denier is expressed in grams per 9,000 meters – in our case, this means that a 9,000-meter-long thread weighs 300 grams. These yarns are then stretched enough to be strong enough for later weaving. For black fabrics, we dye the yarn already during spinning – this dyeing process does not require water or solvents. Additionally, it is advantageous that the spin-dyed yarn has extremely high color fastness.

How is the fabric turned into a finished product? Our products are either waterproof high-frequency welded or sewn. For high-frequency welding, the materials are cut to size beforehand and then welded with specially made forms in the high-frequency machines. For this, the TPU material at the welding seams - and only there - is melted with an electromagnetic alternating field of about 27 MHz and joined by the pressure of a press. The seams are then 100% waterproof and of very high strength. For the sewn products, we use fabrics without TPU coating. The cut fabric parts are sewn and locked with special sewing machines for backpacks. We now exclusively manufacture sewn products in Vietnam in the Ho Chi Minh City region.

How is the yarn processed into the robust GOT BAG fabric?

Our products do not consist exclusively of our fabric made from Ocean Impact Plastic – additional product-specific accessories such as buckles, zippers, straps, foams, and webbing are added. As far as possible, these components are made from recycled materials, although some are not yet available on the market. We specify the product composition in percentage terms by weight in our products. To become more transparent, we have started listing all individual product components and their material composition in our newer products.

The yarns made from Ocean Impact Plastic are woven into a particularly robust 600D or a lighter 300D fabric at a weaving mill in Shanghai, China. For this, the best yarn qualities (AA) are selected for the warp (basic framework) since the requirements for tensile strength are highest for the dense weaving. All black products are usually yarn-dyed (spin-dyed). This means that black color pigments are added to the yarn during spinning. This eliminates the need for the usual wet dyeing process. For all non-black products, we dye the textile directly after weaving with dispersion dyes in a nearby dyeing mill. We avoid dyeing and additives that are on a negative list (e.g., from Ökotex, Bluesign, ZDHC). After dyeing, the fabrics to be waterproof welded are equipped with a thin TPU layer of about 0.15 mm on the backside, the latter inside. A very thin permanent water-repellent finish with PU is applied to the outside. Finally, the fabric is cut and highfrequency welded in special machines. All fabrics for sewn products only receive a thin waterproof PU layer on the back and a PFC-free DWR impregnation on the outside.

7 8/9

CORE COLORS

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

YOUR PALETTE, YOUR PLAYGROUND! At the end of 2020, we started offering our products in other colors than our bestselling color black. This has gradually resulted in a color palette that proved particularly successful and thus became our all-time favorites and now represents our core colors. These colors are available on the products ROLLTOP 2.0, ROLLTOP LITE 2.0, DAYPACK 2.0 and HIP BAG 2.0. This results in a range consisting of our bestseller colors on our bestseller products. Our Core Colors as of January 2024 are:

black

shark

algae

ocean blue

bass

scallop

soft shell seahorse

In addition to our Core Color range, which is always available, we will have some color accents in the form of our popular Color Drops. They will be launched in limited quantities, only be available as long as supplies last, and will ultimately be phased out. If a color turns out to be very strong, it can also be added to the core range. You can order all Core Products in our B2B Shop and complement your product range with the most successful colors and products. Elevate your offerings with the trendiest colors and the most sought-after products and let‘s paint your shelves with brilliance!

10 / 11

BESTSELLER

P RO D U CT B E STS E L L E R S – TO P 5 RA N K I N G 2023 Ranking with the respective percentage of our bestselling products. Please note that the MOON BAG was not launched until 06/2023.

5% 36% 14% 4%

C O R E C O LO R RAN KI N G 2023 Color Ranking with the respective percentage of our Core Colors across all products. Please note that not all colors were available on all products.

SCALLOP 3,7%

SEAHORSE 3,4%

BASS 3,8% OCEAN BLUE 5,2%

SHARK 6,1%

BLACK 55,9% ALGAE 8,0%

SOFT SHELL 14,0%

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

CO RE C OLOR RA N KI N G 2023 P E R PRO D U CT Color ranking with respective percentage of our bestselling products in Core Colors. Please note that not all colors were available on all products.

SCALLOP SEAHORSE 3,4% 3,4% SOFT SHELL 5,3%

BLACK 49,8% BLACK 39,5% OCEAN BLUE 3,3%

SHARK 9,0%

ALGAE 5,4% SHARK 5,6%

ALGAE 9,6% SOFT SHELL 7,8% REEF* 27,4%

SEAHORSE 11,0%

REEF* 9,7%

OCEAN BLUE 9,9%

REEF* 14,7%

SHARK 10,0% SEAHORSE 13,3%

SOFT SHELL 14,0%

ALGAE 4,8% OCEAN BLUE 2,5%

SOFT SHELL 16,8%

REEF* 17,2%

SHARK 10,0%

BLACK 35,5%

BASS 16,3% SCALLOP 7,6% OCEAN BLUE 3,3% SEAHORSE 3,1% ALGAE 2,1%

BLACK 45,2%

SOFT SHELL 35,0% BLACK 48,7%

*becomes Bass 2024

12 / 13

BESTSELLER

ROLLTOP

ROLLTOP LITE

RO L LTO P VS RO LLTO P L I T E

75%

25%

C L AS S I C VS M O N O C H RO M E

82%

18%

ST RO N G E ST C O LO R D RO P 23

04/30/23

09/24/23

ALL B L AC K M O N O C HRO M E

C O LO R D RO P 7

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

1ST P URC H AS E / 2N D P U RC H AS E Product diagram with probabilities of which product as a first purchase leads to which product as a second purchase. Please note that the thicker the line, the higher the probability. This analysis was created from our webshop in 2023.

14 / 15

NEW PRODUCTS

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

16 / 17

2.0 VERSIONS

NEW YEAR – NEW UPGRADES We’re thrilled to announce some exciting upgrades! With the dawn of the new year, we seize the chance to reinvent ourselves and create a positive impact. In close collaboration with the incredible GOT BAG community, we’ve thoughtfully redesigned two of our beloved classics. Your valuable feedback has played a pivotal role in enhancing our core products, making them even more practical and comfortable – all without compromising on our commitment to sustainability. Dive into the double-page spread to explore all the fantastic new features. These upgraded products will soon be available in our Core Colors.

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

ERGONOMIC SHOULDER STRAPS

ZIPPER GARAGE

PADDED BACK WITH LUGGAGE SLEEVE HIDDEN BACK POCKET

DAYPACK 2.0

ELASTIC SIDE POCKETS

MEASUREMENTS | WEIGHT | VOLUME

PRICE | AVAILABILITY

INTERIOR FEATURES

• • •

• •

14” x 11” x 4” 1.2 lbs 11 l

MSRP $89 Launch Date 02/01/2024

50,000 units. That‘s the impressive number of DAYPACKs we‘ve sold in North America over the last two years, solidifying this everyday backpack classic as a true hero in our collection. However, we recognized the need for positive changes to elevate the functionality and overall experience

of the DAYPACK. With the addition of two external bottle holders, a completely new fabric composition (still crafted from 100% recycled Ocean Impact Plastic), and an improved storage system, the DAYPACK 2.0 shines even brighter than its predecessor.

HIP BAG 2.0

ADJUSTABLE SHOULDER STRAP WITH BUCKLE CLOSURE

MEASUREMENTS | WEIGHT | VOLUME

PRICE | AVAILABILITY

• • •

• •

5.5” x 6.7” x 3” 0.3 lbs 1l

Integrated 14” laptop compartment Inside zipper pocket

OUTER POCKET WITH ZIPPER CLOSURE

New MSRP $39 Delivery Date 02/01/2024

The GOT BAG HIP BAG has been a functional fashion icon since day one. Whether you‘re running quick errands or enjoying the next festival, the HIP BAG has you covered, keeping all your belongings

18 / 19

safe in the most fashionable way. With additional upgrades and a new and enhanced zipper, the HIP BAG 2.0 is ready to establish itself as an icon in its own right.

NEW PRODUCTS

MUSETTE Inspired by urban cycling design, the MUSETTE is your perfect daily companion, offering ample space for your essentials. Main fabric crafted from recycled Ocean Impact Plastic Lining made of recycled Polyester Webbings created from recycled Polyester Zipper constructed from recycled nylon Water-repellent, soft material Features PU backside & DWR face side coating for added durability

NEW NEW PRO PACK Organized and functional - Your professional companion for onthe-go. With the front pocket in document size, cable access, and the 15” laptop compartment that you can access from the outside, your mobile office is quickly set up. With flexible mesh exterior pockets and numerous interior compartments, you‘ll stay perfectly organized. Ergonomic shoulder straps and an adjustable chest strap provide comfort. If you‘re traveling with a suitcase, the suitcase strap spares your back. The PRO PACK complies with IATA guidelines for carry-on luggage. Main fabric crafted from recycled Ocean Impact Plastic Lining made of recycled Polyester Webbings created from recycled Polyester Zipper constructed from recycled nylon Water-repellent, soft material Features PU backside & DWR face side coating for added durability

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

SQUARE & CURVED BAG Compact and unique – the SQUARED BAG LARGE is the ideal companion for urban everyday life. It provides ample space for a 13“ laptop and your daily essentials. With an adjustable strap and double zipper heads, it‘s practical and contemporary. Relaxed and roomy – This fashion-forward shoulder bag with its unique rounded silhouette is the perfect companion if you value both style and spaciousness. The CURVED BAG offers you enough space for on the go and fits snugly around your body. Main fabric crafted from recycled Ocean Impact Plastic Lining made of recycled Polyester Webbings created from recycled Polyester Zipper constructed from recycled nylon Water-repellent, soft material Features PU backside & DWR face side coating for added durability

W NEW NEW NEW DAYPACK LOOP Functional and unique - Introducing our exceptional daypack featuring an integrated 15“ laptop compartment. With convenient daisy chains, you can effortlessly attach a bike lock, carabiner, or other accessories. The flexible side pockets ensure easy access to your water bottle, while the discreet secret compartment keeps your valuables secure. Additionally, the luggage sleeve on the back makes the DAYPACK LOOP an ideal travel companion.

Main fabric crafted from recycled Ocean Impact Plastic Lining made of recycled Polyester Webbings created from recycled Polyester Zipper constructed from recycled nylon Water-repellent, soft material Features PU backside & DWR face side coating for added durability

20 / 21

C KED

RE:SHEL L

CABIN VS CHECKED RE:SH E

E D RE:SHELL CABIN VS C HE

RE:SHELL CABIN/CHECKED

LL CABIN VS CHECK

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

WORLD’S FIRST CABIN LUGGAGE MADE WITH OCEAN IMPACT PLASTIC Innovative & durable – Turn pollution into protection with this wheeled travel companion. Made from RE:SHELL® to protect your belongings, this hard shell luggage is a true innovation with 100% recycled contents. The TSA combination lock provides added security, and the many interior compartments ensure you can travel worry-free and organized. The 360° spinner wheels guarantee long-lasting travel fun. • • • •

Crafted with RE:SHELL® from recycled Ocean Impact Plastic TSA combination lock for enhanced security Interior compartments made from recycled materials 360° spinner wheels for smooth and lasting travel experiences. RE:SHELL CABIN

RE:SHELL CHECKED DIMENSIONS 30” x 20” x 12” (H x W x D) VOLUME 90 l WEIGHT 9.8 lbs MATERIAL 70% Ocean Bound Polycarbonate 30% Recycled Post Industrial Polycarbonte PRICE MSRP $399 WARRANTY 5 years Repairservice Exchange set wheels

DIMENSIONS 21” x 15” x 8” (H x W x D) VOLUME 36 l WEIGHT 6.7 lbs MATERIAL RE:SHELL® hard shell made of 50% recycled Ocean Impact Plastic and 50% post-consumer recycled PET, lining and webbing recycled PET PRICE MSRP $299 WARRANTY 5 years Repairservice Exchange set wheels

FEATURES

• Replaceable 360 spinner wheels

• Aluminium telescopic handle with extension up to 39.37 inches

• Aluminium telescopic handle with double extension up to 39.37 inches

• TSA combination lock

• Top and side carrying handles

• Zippered compartment in left half

• Padded 15” laptop compartment

• Organizer with compression straps in right half:

• Zippered compartment in left half • Organizer with compression straps in right half:

– Storage compartment for cables and small zippered compartment on top of organizer

– Zippered mesh pocket and two small zippered pockets on the inside of the organizer

22 / 23

ROLLTOP MONOCHROME SOFT SHELL MSRP $159

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

MOON BAG SOFT SHELL MSRP $39

24 / 25

SEA SHEPHERD

BALTIC SEA CAM PAIGN SEA SHEPHERD FIGHTS MARINE POLLUTION AROUND THE WORLD. DURING OUR IUU PATROLS, WE WORK TOGETHER WITH OUR GOVERNMENT PARTNERS TO SEIZE AND CONFISCATE ILLEGAL GEAR. IN SOME COUNTRIES, THE FOCUS LIES ON RECOVERING LOST OR ABANDONED FISHING GEAR, WHICH IS RESPONSIBLE FOR A LARGE PERCENTAGE OF THE PLASTIC POLLUTION IN THE OCEANS. IT IS ESTIMATED THAT MORE THAN 640,000 TONNES OF FISHING GEAR ARE DISCARDED AT SEA EVERY YEAR, AND IT TAKES CENTURIES FOR THE MATERIAL TO BREAK DOWN. BY THEN, THE NETS ARE DEADLY TO COUNTLESS MARINE ANIMALS. IN GERMANY, SEA SHEPHERD IS ACTIVELY TACKLING THIS ISSUE.

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

26 / 27

SEA SHEPHERD

SEA SHEPHERD HAS BEEN PROTECTING THE BALTIC SEA WITH THE BALTIC SEA CAMPAIGN SINCE 2017. EVERY YEAR THE WATERS BETWEEN FLENSBURG AND GERMANY‘S LARGEST ISLAND OF RÜGEN ARE PATROLLED TO RECOVER GHOST NETS, PREVENT ILLEGAL FISHING ACTIVITIES, AND REPORT VIOLATIONS OF EXISTING PROTECTION LAWS. THE 2023 CAMPAIGN ALSO SAW THE FIRST MISSION OF SEA SHEPHERD GERMANY’S NEW VESSEL, THE APPROXIMATELY 23-METRE-LONG TRITON, WHICH JOINED OUR FLEET IN 2022.

The campaign focuses on gillnet fishing and pollution caused by lost and abandoned fishing gear, including ghost nets. In the Baltic Sea alone, up to 10,000 nets and pieces of nets are lost each year. Fishing gear like this poses a deadly threat to many marine animals that become entangled, for example, while hunting for prey. This year, the crew once again documented the senseless deaths of many marine creatures, including fish, crabs, and a seal. „On Every single dive, we saw the destruction these nets caused. The saddest find of all was undoubtedly a dead sealthat we had to painstakingly cut out of the net during the recovery“, said Florian Stadler, Campaign Leader of Sea Shepherd Germany. „This animal died a painful and unnecessary death because reckless fishing operators do not properly report the loss of their nets and irresponsibly leave their rubbish at sea instead of taking care of it, “he added. A key objective of the Baltic Sea Campaign is the recovery of ghost nets. Using the right equipment

and specially trained divers, the nets are first located and prepared for recovery. The retrieved nets are then disposed of properly or, where possible, cleaned and upcycled in an environmentally friendly manner. In 2023, the crew managed to remove more than 10 tonnes of fishing gear from the Baltic Sea. In addition to recovering ghost nets, the crew documented numerous conservation law violations, including the Coastal Fisheries Regulation and the Animal Welfare Act, and filed three criminal charges. The incident involving an illegal gillnet that had not been emptied for several days was particularly shocking. Some animals had already started to decompose, and the net was covered in algae. According to the Coastal Fishing Regulation, nets must be emptied within 24 hours. In addition to this violation, the gillnet was incorrectly marked. As a result, the net was pulled in, and the incident was reported to the relevant authorities. More than 1,100 animals died needlessly in this single net.

Baltic Sea Campaign combats ghost nets Ghost nets pose a severe threat to the oceans by becoming a deadly trap for countless marine creatures.

MAGAZINE S/S 2024 New in action In 2023, for the campaign in action for the first time, the new Sea Shepherd Germany‘s vessel.

and considered endangered. Gillnets continue to be a significant cause of mortality. The fine nets are barely visible underwater, and the animals become entangled and drown. Dead porpoises with signs of injuries caused by fishing are regularly found along the coasts. In mid-July 2023, the crew made a terrible discovery off Travemünde. Floating body parts of a harbor porpoise were found in the water, including the animal‘s severed dorsal fin.

With this campaign, Sea Shepherd is making an essential contribution to preserving biodiversity and the marine ecosystem. The state of the Baltic Sea is alarming, and it is one of the most threatened marine areas in the world. There are many causes, but the main ones are eutrophication (when fertilizer runoff from agricultural land leads to excessive algae growth and oxygen depletion in bodies of water), overfishing, pollution, underwater noise, and the advancing climate crisis. The effects are particularly severe in the case of the Baltic harbor porpoises. Harbor porpoises in the Baltic Sea are divided into two populations. They are considered critically endangered in the central Baltic Sea, and their population size is estimated at 450–500 individuals. In the Baltic, the population is slightly larger

» THE APPROXIMATELY 23-METRE-LONG TRITON HAS BEEN PART OF THE FLEET SINCE 2022 AND IS PRIMARILY OPERATED IN THE BALTIC SEA. «

28 / 29

SEA SHEPHERD Sad discovery Such images shall be prevented: A dead seal that has had to be painstakingly cut out of the net. Animals often do not manage to free themselves.

The recently published report of the Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission, also known as the “Helsinki Commission” (HELCOM) clearly shows the extent to which the habitats and biodiversity of the Human impacts threaten the Baltic Sea. Therefore, Sea Shepherd will return to the waters in 2024 to actively protect the Baltic Sea and its inhabitants. There were clear cut marks on the parts found. “This animal was most likely caught in a net and then deliberately cut up to make sure the body disappeared and to avoid inconvenient questions“, said Florian Stadler. Gillnet fishing is still allowed in the animals‘ territory. Even in protected areas, policy continues to rely on voluntary approaches. As a result, fatal encounters between porpoises and nets continue to occur. “Like many other conservation groups, we are calling for an end to gillnet fishing in the animals‘ habitats. If we continue to allow them to be caught as bycatch, we will ultimately seal the fate of the Baltic harbour porpoises,” said Florian Stadler.

Support our work to protect the ocean. Only with your help can we run campaigns and take action against overfishing, illegal fishing, and the destruction of marine habitats. Whether in Germany, off the coast of West Africa, in the Mediterranean, or Antarctica, marine life worldwide urgently requires our protection. Your donations will take us to the places where we are most needed. Donate today at: www.seashepherdglobal.org

The pirates of Sea Shepherd This international, non-profit organization is made up of people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. They all have one goal: to defend, protect and preserve the oceans and their inhabitants.

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

» THE STATE OF THE BALTIC SEA IS ALARMING, AND IT IS ONE OF THE MOST THREATENED MARINE AREAS IN THE WORLD. THERE ARE MANY CAUSES, BUT THE MAIN ONES ARE EUTROPHICATION, OVERFISHING, POLLUTION, UNDERWATER NOISE, AND THE ADVANCING CLIMATE CRISIS. «

Through the partnership with GOT BAG and the sale of the GOT BAG x Sea Shepherd collection, over $50,000 of donations have already been collected. Contact us if you would also like to contribute to the oceans and offer the collection. SEA SHEPHERD ROLLTOP MSRP $159

30 / 31

TRAVEL REPORT

selamat siang*

VISIT TO THE GOT BAG CLEAN-UP PROGRAM IN INDONESIA

Hey there, I‘m Sabrina, and I‘m thrilled to share our incredible journey to the clean-up programHey there, I‘m Sabrina, and I‘m thrilled to share our incredible journey to the clean-up program in Indonesia, which unfolded in March 2023. Joining a group of six passionate individuals, we embarked on a remarkable adventure to Jakarta, with stops in Yogyakarta, Demak, Goyoyo, Betahwalang, and Jepara. Our goal was to grasp the local situation, connect with the community, and meet our dedicated team on the ground. Today, I‘m excited to unveil some of the highlights and insights from this impactful trip. – Sabrina, Sales Team

*Hello – indonesian

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

Participation in Clean-Up Action After a long flight to Jakarta, the team (except for me, as I unfortunately arrived a day later) experienced their first highlight: participating in a clean-up organized by GOT BAG Indonesia at a beach in the south of Yogyakarta. My colleagues Max, Rebecca, Martha, Jule, and Bianca not only witnessed the Indonesian GOT BAG team in action but also actively joined in. They were particularly impressed by the dedication and patience of the participants as they collected plastic, despite the hot temperatures and high humidity. It‘s incredible how much plastic they gathered in the end: around 880 lbs!

Meeting the GOT BAG Indonesia Team

The following evening, we visited Pak Willem, the founder of GOT BAG Indonesia. He invited us to his home for a dinner with the entire GOT BAG Indonesia crew. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a beautifully set table featuring local dishes prepared by our Indonesian colleagues themselves. It was truly wonderful to meet the Indonesian team in person, a team we had previously known only through photos, emails, or calls. Learning about the daily routines and workdays of each other was incredibly impressive and exciting.

The beach clean-up involved around 60 people: primarily Indonesian students, some Australian students and us.

32 / 33

TRAVEL REPORT

Pak Willem’s garden is richly filled with local vegetables, from which we were served a typical dinner including interesting conversations.

The Local Waste Issue We visited the village of Ruwit in Demak. Here, there is no organized waste management system; no garbage trucks come to collect household waste. Instead, a wild dumpsite emerged in the past, directly at the edge of the river. For me, it was an unfamiliar sight, but for many people around the world, it‘s a harsh reality. When the river level rises after rain, the garbage is often carried away by the floods and sometimes washed into the sea, just a few miles away. For the past few months, Pak Ali and his wife from Ruwit have been part of the collector‘s network of GOT BAG Indonesia. We visited the couple at their collection point, where the gathered waste is deposited and stored until our colleagues from GOT BAG Indonesia pick it up with a truck. It became clear to me here how crucial it is to work at the root of the waste problem and not just address the symptoms.

Pak Ali and his wife sorting all the collected plastic in Ruwit.

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

Visit to the large Warehouse in Jepara

GOT

BAG

After visiting various collecting communities and the largest landfill in the entire region, we toured our warehouse, which we had only seen in pictures and videos – it‘s truly enormous at 32,292 square feet! Here, workers sort PET and other plastic types by color, which are then pressed for transport. It takes approximately 20 minutes for the machine operators to compress such a block using the press. The thought that all this plastic would usually end up in the environment, the ocean, or rivers or would be buried forever in one of the landfills is unimaginable!

sampai jumpa lagi indonesia* *See you again, Indonesia.

34 / 35

INSIGHTS: PRODUCT DESIGN

FROM THE INITIAL IDEAS TO THE FINISHED GOT BAG: 6 QUESTIONS WITH KATHRIN, GIVING US AN INSIGHT INTO HER WORK AS LEAD OF PRODUCT.

GOT BAG wouldn‘t exist without you! The loyal community that appreciates our backpacks and bags. One of the cornerstones of GOT BAG is our Product Team, which is essential in translating your wishes into reality, considering many factors in product design. Our Lead of Product, Kathrin, answers six questions that provide a deep insight behind the scenes.

EVERYBODY IS WONDERING, WHAT NEW PRODUCTS ARE WAITING FOR US. CAN YOU GIVE US A LITTLE PREVIEW FOR 2024? 2024 holds some surprises! We are currently working on a new backpack that, unlike the rather minimalistic ROLLTOP, has plenty of interior and exterior pockets, making it a highlight for those who like to stay perfectly organized. And since the smaller products have been so well received this year, you can look forward to more of them – and much more that I can‘t reveal yet. WHAT DOES A TYPICAL WORKDAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU? The core of my day consists of meetings with the product designers. It involves initial designs and the latest ideas, but most importantly, discussing prototypes. We always take ample time in our product meetings for this. Additionally, the strategic direction of our products is part of my daily routine, such as collection planning. When will certain products come in which colors, what are the current trends? What does our color concept look like? In GOT BAG jargon, it‘s called „Color Drop.“ We work on this with a lead time of 1 to 1.5 years. Since the product, following the mission, is the core of GOT BAG, and we all work for it, a lot of interdisciplinary coordination is necessary. And in the meantime, there are countless little things to take care of, such as planning hangtags or brainstorming color names related to the sea. HOW DO YOU COME UP WITH IDEAS FOR A NEW BAG? CAN YOU BRIEFLY EXPLAIN HOW IT WORKS - FROM THE IDEA TO THE FINISHED PRODUCT IN THE SHOP? The first and most important thing: we reflect on the needs of the community and customers. What‘s missing, what works well, what can we improve – that forms the basis of what we do. Then, the design process starts: from initial sketches to the first sample sewn in-house. After finalizing the details, we begin the product development with our producers. Sometimes, everything is perfect after a few sampling rounds, while other prototypes need more love. We don‘t let time pressure us – the goal is always the best possible product. Of course, we have deadlines; sometimes, we meet them, and everyone is happy, other times, we miss them, and the rest of the team unfortunately gets pulled in. That‘s life! Once we‘ve developed a product, it takes about three to six months for our customers to finally hold it in their hands.

36 / 37

INSIGHTS: PRODUCT DESIGN

WHAT ARE THE SPECIAL CHALLENGES AT GOT BAG? Our biggest challenge: we rely on our own material and control the entire production process – from the collected PET bottle in the clean-up program to the finished product. Due to our commitment to Ocean Impact Plastic, we constantly have to think innovatively and develop our own materials. The high percentage of recycled content in our components is another issue. Sometimes, certain components don‘t exist as recycled versions on the market. In such cases, we have to find our own production solutions. Of course, recycling also increases costs – but it‘s worth it for us. WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL FAVORITE PRODUCT? The MOON BAG LARGE in the trench color. I like its minimalist and relaxed shape and how it fits around the body when worn. Plus, it has the perfect volume for any occasion and is still super lightweight. For me, trench is definitely the hottest color this fall, as I‘m a big fan of the brown comeback. HOW CAN THE COMMUNITY REACH THE PRODUCT TEAM? The easiest way to reach us is through Instagram and via email at hello-us@got-bag.com. And please, be sure to participate in the surveys sent out through our newsletter. Only then can we truly consider your wishes and ideas.

ON THE GO, I SOMETIMES SEE ONE OF OUR ROLLTOPS WITH THE FRONT POCKET OPEN. I ALWAYS HAVE TO RESTRAIN MYSELF FROM WALKING OVER TO CLOSE IT. SO, IF YOU’RE EVER IN PORTLAND – KEEP YOUR EYES PEELED, WE MIGHT BUMP INTO EACH OTHER!

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

ROLLTOP LITE OCEAN BLUE MSRP $149

38 / 39

EXPERT TALK

GOT BAG EXPERT TALK

ABOUT THE RE:SHELL CYCLE AND THE END-OF-LIFE SOLUTION NOBODY HAD PLANNED.

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

Sometimes things don‘t go as expected – in a positive way. Christian, our Lead of Operations, provides an honest insight into the processes and challenges we encountered during the development of the end-of-life solution for our RE:SHELL CABIN.

Christian, you‘re responsible for the processes in product development as the Lead of Operations – can you first tell us since when you‘ve been with GOT BAG and what personally drives you? Certainly, I‘ve been with GOT BAG since 2021. I‘m passionate about being outdoors (slightly hyperactive) and have been working in the backpack, bag, and fashion industry for quite some time. The environment and economy have been topics that have concerned me for a while. I enjoy helping young startups bring their ideas to life. I also love challenges. GOT BAG was an ideal match for me. Plus, there‘s a truly fantastic spirit in the office and a passionate team that knows how to celebrate victories but also weather setbacks. Start-ups are never a bed of roses, quite the opposite. But that‘s why every year counts double, and the learning curve is very steep.

that you either never start or never reach a solution. Our initial goal in development was to create a hard-shell suitcase from our Ocean Impact Plastic – with high quality and a long lifespan. And the suitcase was supposed to be easy to repair from the beginning. That was challenging enough and took 1.5 years. But then, how did the end-of-life solution come about? When we had the finished product in our hands, we realized that if it‘s easy to repair, it‘s also easy to disassemble into its individual parts. That means these parts could be reused or recycled. That was the crucial ‚aha‘ moment... Suddenly, there was a path and a solution visible and somehow tangible. So, we set out to see if we could make it happen. What were the main problems that needed to be solved to implement this? There were essentially four major questions we had to address. First: How could we ensure that customers could easily return the product to us in the end? Second: Could we disassemble the suitcases with reasonable effort? Third, we had to find someone capable of recycling the hard shell – which is the main component of the suitcase – in a way that could be used to produce new shells. And finally, there was, of course, the question of costs.

Every journey has an end – even that of a loyal companion like our suitcase. We developed a solution so that the resources of the RE:SHELL CABIN don‘t go completely to waste after their lifespan, following the principles of a circular economy. Where did the idea for this come from? Interestingly, an end-of-life solution was never something we had planned. I‘m pretty sure that if we had started with such a goal, we would never have arrived at a solution. The reason is that from the start, you are confronted with so many complex challenges like mono-materials, recycling, sorting, dismantling, upcycling, and especially costs and profitability,

40 / 41

EXPERT TALK

And how did you solve it? Interestingly, customer returns were already in place. The suitcase without wheels qualifies as a perfect package. So, we inquired with the parcel services and tested it. Take off the wheels, close the suitcase, attach the return label – it works! Disassembling the suitcase into its individual parts took some practice, and we even had a little competition. With a power drill and a cutter, it only took five minutes. So, it‘s doable. For recycling the hard shell, we searched for a while. We needed someone willing to participate in what some called ‚nonsense.‘ Luckily, we found such a partner in IKV. The company has specialized in PET recycling for many years. We visited them with a few samples, discussed and tested the recycling process. The recyclate even met yarn quality standards, meaning we could incorporate it into the production of our backpack fabric. And what about the last point, the profitability of this endeavor – does it make sense? Nope. The scale is much too small for that, of course. It was clear that this wouldn‘t become a business case, but we were eager to try it out. In fact, the pure recycling costs are even lower than the manufacturing costs for our Ocean Impact Plastic. The quantities are much smaller, and it will take a long time until we have a few tons. But that‘s usually the case when you start something new. On the other hand, it won‘t financially burden us either. Will all of this work in the end? I don‘t know. But if we don‘t try, we surely won‘t find out. That‘s why we decided to give it a shot. What do you think is the reason why so few other brands offer suitcases with an end-oflife solution? As I mentioned, the complexity is very high, especially for products with multiple components. It only works if the shell and many components are monomaterials. It‘s like a huge vertical wall you have to climb right from the start. High effort and uncertain outcome – these are not successful project criteria within companies. Additionally, there‘s the issue of profitability. Repair and recycling never make financial sense initially. But we believe it‘s the right thing to do and makes a difference in customer loyalty. Is this your solution, or can others join in? We are completely open to that and would be delighted if others joined or were inspired to develop their own solutions. So, if someone reading this works for a suitcase brand that wants to think in the direction of circular economy, please reach out to us – we‘re happy to share our experiences and contacts with our partners! Feel free to connect via LinkedIn or email us at hello-us@got-bag.com. Thank you for the insights, dear Christian!

The RE:SHELL CABIN, equipped with a return label, can be sent back for recycling without additional packaging material.

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

RE:SHELL CABIN SOFT SHELL MSRP $299

42 / 43

CONTACT

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

GOT BAG North America Inc. 8152 SW Hall Blvd #1025 Beaverton, OR 97008 retail-us@got-bag.com +1 (470) 451-3176 www.got-bag.com

facebook.com/gotbagbrand @gotbag pinterest.com/gotbag ENDVR Product training for employees in the app

44 / 45

MAGAZINE S/S 2024

46 / 47

M A D E O F O C E A N I M PAC T P L A S T I C

CREATE AN IMPACT CREATE AN IMPACT CREATE AN IMPACT

GOT BAG Magazine - Issue #4 // SS24