Innovation

Stingray leather is not usually the first material that comes to mind when thinking about typical leather sources. Accompanying this challenge is the issue of how a business is supposed to find readily available material to be used. What many in western nations do not know, however, is that stingray is eaten frequently in Asian cultures, and more often than not, the by-product of this consumption goes to waste. When Joshua discovered this overwhelming under-utilization of product, he jumped at the opportunity to create something that could up-cycle what was being left behind while giving back to charities that meant the most to him.

Inspiration

Joshua's initial inspiration is found in this quote,

“I felt like there weren’t limited luxury brands that offered quality but at the same time had their main foundation in the desire to give back and help the community. We see it now slowly in Louis Vuitton, but when I started, the retail and fashion industry felt selfish.”

Overall impact

Through his efforts, Joshua was able to create a bracelet in collaboration with Make-A-Wish. This collaboration combined Joshua's product with the charities' main mission of ensuring sick children are given an unforgettable experience. The product is currently sold online and 50% of the sales are donated directly to Make-A-Wish.

Business benefit

Through Joshua's innovative take on the luxury accessories market, he was able to create a position in the arena that has elevated his business to a place many would envy. He has strategically worked his way into stores including Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, and created collaborations with large charities.

Social and environmental benefit

Joshua's creativity in up-cycling preexisting stingray by-products has created new life for something that would have previously ended up in the trash. What so many do not realize is that our current process of consumption, specifically related to food, creates mass amounts of waste that can be put toward different uses. With the widespread success of the stingray bracelet, Joshua has begun to look at new types of leather that could benefit from being given a new form.

Interview

Joshua Noskin, CEO