Ever wonder how some of today’s most inspiring one-for-one’s are also in the business of fashion? Take TOMS, Warby Parker or even Roma Boots – they’re producing extraordinary products and their mission-driven models are resonating with conscious consumers all over the globe. Provided my experience with one-for-one has mostly been with brands I can wear (and I do), I was intrigued to meet Bridget Hilton, co-founder of Jack’s Soap.
“Soap that saves” doesn’t exactly yell sexy like a new pair of kicks or vintage frames; yet, Jack’s has the potential to create huge social impact. As Bridget noted, “Just washing your hands can largely prevent Cholera, Typhoid and Diarrhea – 3 of the top diseases killing kids under the age of 5.” This clear correlation between access to basic hygiene products and widespread disease plaguing today’s youth in developing nations also means that we can measure the social return of a brand like Jack’s.
What’s most compelling about Jack’s is that they’ve managed to implement one-for-one in a way that’s quieting many of the model’s critics. Jack’s doesn’t just donate soap; the communities receiving the aid are actually producing the soap that Jack’s donates. As noted on their site:
Jack’s works in conjunction with local soap makers to not only bolster the local economy, but to reduce our carbon footprint by giving away locally produced, specially formulated soap. Through organizations such as Global Handwashing Day and local soap makers, we spread awareness of the importance of washing hands, starting with children.
This is an excellent example of innovating on an already innovative model (one-for-one). While all of Jack’s Soap sold is USA-made, cruelty free and vegan, the goods that they give away are made in the communities benefitting from the donation. As conscious consumers continue to vote with their wallets and support brands like Jack’s Soap, we’ll continue to see remarkable innovation and companies pushing the envelope when it comes to using business to achieve environmental and social progress.
(Photo via Jack’s Soap)