What is Fraenck?
Fraenck is a social and sustainable fashion brand hailing from Arnhem that specializes in upcycling textile waste, sailcloth, artificial leather, and various other materials into modern backpacks, pouches, and accessories. Created by the dynamic designer duo Ho&Mulder, Fraenck emerged as a visionary project that takes discarded materials and transforms them into fashionable, high-quality products. The brand emphasizes a hands-on approach with transparency: the production process can actually be observed in their concept store. Fraenck focuses on both consumers and businesses, offering stylish, ethical options for anyone looking to embrace sustainable fashion. This is not just a fashion line; it’s a movement that combines design excellence, innovative recycling, and social commitment—a perfect blend of creativity and responsibility…
Main Benefit
The standout advantage of the project lies in its commitment to sustainable material upcycling while making a social impact. Key figures and facts include:
- Over 12,000 kilos of leftover sailcloth, banner cloth, and artificial leather have been reintegrated into the production chain.
- The concept has provided a learning and work trajectory for 32 ambitious individuals, with 8 successfully finding paid work.
- A highly impressive bcorp score of 97.2, reflecting a robust dedication to environmental and social ethics.
- A range of innovative products including backpacks, pouches, and accessories that resonate with a modern audience.
- A strategic focus not only on individual consumers but also on businesses with corporate gifts and goodies.
Original Designer Story
The journey began when Ratna Ho and Pascal Mulder first met at the art academy in Arnhem—an encounter that set the stage for a creative partnership fueled by passion for design. Ratna’s formal training in Fashion Design and Pascal’s background in Product Design ensured that the blend of skills was perfectly calibrated for innovation. After Ratna advanced her studies at Central St. Martins and Pascal dived into a ceramics collection, their creative paths converged, compelling them to merge their talents. Their partnership became the spark for Fraenck, a brand built on the principles of creativity, sustainability, and a commitment to supporting local communities.
Concept Store & Collaboration
The concept store on Beekstraat in central Arnhem is a testament to Fraenck’s commitment to transparency and sustainability. Opened in March 2017, the store offers more than just products—it offers a glimpse into the creative and production process. Customers can watch firsthand how everyday discarded materials are transformed into sought-after fashion items, making each purchase a story of renewal and creativity. The concept also provides a platform for other local designers, further strengthening a community built on sustainable values and mutual growth. Collaboration remains at the heart of the project, with partnerships such as those with Buitink Technology and Siza adding layers of expertise and social entrepreneurship to the overall brand story.
Innovation and Sustainability
Fraenck takes pride in its innovative design process that not only reduces waste but also creates a ripple effect in social impact. The collaboration with Buitink Technology led to the creation of a unique bag collection sourced from upcycled remnants of sailmakers, symbolizing how waste can be transformed into chic and durable accessories. Such projects are enriching the fashion world with sustainable alternatives, driving home the message that eco-friendly practices can be both stylish and effective. The use of upgraded waste materials aligns with global calls for responsible consumption and production, infusing modern design with eco-conscious ethics. There is a tangible connection between creative design and industrial recycling that marks every Fraenck product, often leading to spontaneous exclamations of “Wow, that’s really cool!”
Community and Collaborative Impact
Beyond the aesthetic appeal and functional design of its products, Fraenck has deeply committed itself to social responsibility. In a beautifully crafted partnership with Siza, social entrepreneurship was thrust into the spotlight through the Ignite Award, a competition for social startups. The initiative helped refine the business plan with generous support from the Rabobank Foundation and Stichting DOEN, elevating the project to new heights. Each bag, pouch, and accessory produced carries a story—a story of reimagining waste, supporting local talent, and carving a sustainable future for those involved. This socially engaged approach contributes significantly to community empowerment, offering practical pathways for skilled individuals in transition and enabling them to build a better future.
Project Impact
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – by offering career trajectories and paid employment.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – through innovative recycling and upcycling practices.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – by reducing waste and promoting sustainable materials.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – via creative collaborations that build a future-focused industry.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – with a local focus on Arnhem and engagement with community partners.
Future Prospects
With the project making significant strides since its inception, the future for Fraenck appears ripe with potential. The story continues to unfold as the team plans to substantially expand its social impact by increasing support for individuals seeking to upskill and enter the workforce within the sustainable fashion industry. Looking ahead, Fraenck remains dedicated to producing innovative designs that marry the beauty of fashion with the ethics of environmental stewardship. Each new collection is a promise—an ongoing commitment to reducing waste, fostering creativity, and exemplifying how the fusion of artistic vision and social responsibility can lead to transformative change in the fashion world. The journey is ongoing, and each step forward is echoed in the sustainable, stylish, and socially conscious ensembles that continue to win the hearts and accolades of both customers and communities alike…
