West Elm is poised to add more than 150 new products by global artisans to its assortment through a new partnership with Powered by People (PBP).
A wholesale marketplace that connects buyers in North America and Europe with small-batch producers in more than 50 countries, PBP helps global artisans scale their businesses in a meaningful way through its B2B tech platform, digital tools and financing resources. The company will bring products created by artisans in nine countries to West Elm stores and its website through the PBP x West Elm collection.
The new collection includes a range of handcrafted products and gifts priced from $8 to $650. Items and artisans include Gharyan Stoneware’s mineral clay and olive wood tableware from Tunisia; punch-needle technique pillows from South Africa’s Cotton Tree; artisanal candles from Canada’s Field Kit; terracotta serve ware and recycled glassware from Alcantara-Frederic, Morocco; organic soapstone and raffia mobiles from Floc, Kenya; elephant grass baskets woven in Ghana from Big Blue Moma; modernist ceramic vases from India’s Osmos Studio; Wayil by Algodones Maya’s pillows hand woven from their own homegrown Guatemalan cotton; and from Mexico, Aurea’s contemporary wall hangings, Al Centro’s soulful ceramics, and Rafful Studio’s textile tapestries and mirrors.
“West Elm’s support of global artisans is a testament to the growing consumer demand for unique, authentic products that are sustainably sourced and produced with fair employment practices,” said Alison Phillips, co-founder and chief design officer, Powered by People.
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The PBP collaboration is the latest partnership West Elm has struck in an effort to increase its assortment of sustainable and fair trade products. Earlier this month, the retailer announced a new sustainable line with designer Mara Hoffman, and this past spring, the company collaborated with Ethiopian-owned Bolé Road Textiles to produce a line of rugs and indoor/outdoor pillows.
“We are excited to partner with Powered by People to further our commitment to supporting artisans worldwide,” said Catherine Schwartz, SVP of merchandising at West Elm. “We look forward to expanding our maker community with a company that shares our dedication to sourcing responsibly made, beautiful products.”