What is Duffle&Co?
Duffle&Co is a New Zealand-based family-run business that crafts responsibly sourced, ethically made bags and accessories designed for personal use or corporate gifting. Born from a passion to support skilled artisans and preserve traditional craftsmanship, this brand carries you seamlessly from work to weekend with products that don’t just look good but stand for something meaningful. Their range includes everything from satchels and duffles to purses, laptop sleeves, washbags, and more — all made with natural, responsibly crafted materials like organic cotton, leather, and innovative alternatives such as Piñatex (pineapple leather) and Mirum.
Main Benefits of Choosing Duffle&Co
Why choose Duffle&Co? Here’s the lowdown:
- Certified B Corporation with a strong score of 80.8, reflecting high social and environmental standards
- Each purchase plants 5 native trees through Eden Reforestation Projects — giving back to nature and communities
- Handcrafted products signed by the artisan who made them — a personal touch you don’t see every day
- Use of sustainable, next-generation materials like Piñatex, Desserto (cactus leather), recycled canvas, and organic cotton
- Workshops in New Zealand, Bali, and Southern India that uphold ethical practices and preserve traditional craft techniques
- Bespoke luxury corporate gifts and giveaways that are made to last and impress
The Story Behind the Brand
It all started back in 2015 when co-founder Danny traveled through India, Nepal, and Indonesia. He met talented craftsmen who had lost their jobs due to shifting trade patterns. Determined to help, Danny and Kai pooled their savings to buy 100 leather duffle bags and brought them back to New Zealand. That’s how Duffle&Co was born — with a mission to connect these artisans with people who appreciate quality and authenticity. Since then, the brand has grown but stayed true to its roots, focusing on ethical sourcing and craftsmanship.
Innovative Materials and Craftsmanship
Duffle&Co isn’t just about traditional leather goods. They’re pioneers in introducing innovative, sustainable materials to the New Zealand and Australian markets. In 2017, they launched their first Piñatex product — a pineapple leather alternative — and since then have expanded to include organic cotton canvas, cactus leather, and recycled fabrics. Their workshops, especially the family-run one in Bali, blend age-old artisan techniques with these modern materials, ensuring every piece is unique, durable, and eco-friendly.
Expanding the Artisan Network
When the world slowed down, Duffle&Co saw an opportunity to grow their artisan family. Beyond Bali, they now work with workshops in Erode, Southern India, and as of 2023, in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand. These locations were chosen carefully — not just for their skill but because they maintain high ethical standards and keep traditional crafts alive. This expansion allows Duffle&Co to offer a wider variety of bespoke corporate projects and next-gen materials, all while supporting communities and preserving heritage.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth — supporting artisans with fair trade and stable employment
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production — using sustainable, recycled, and innovative materials
- SDG 13: Climate Action — planting trees to restore ecosystems and reduce carbon footprint
- SDG 15: Life on Land — partnering with reforestation projects to protect native forests
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals — collaborating with global and local communities to drive positive change
Continuing the Legacy
In 2025, Bee Stevenson took the helm of Duffle&Co, committed to honoring the legacy built by the founders. The core values remain rock solid: For Nature, For Communities, For Transparency, and For Craftsmanship. Still independent and proudly Kiwi, the brand continues to innovate while staying true to its mission — creating beautiful, bespoke gifts and apparel that carry meaning, support ethical practices, and inspire connection. Whether it’s a handcrafted bag for yourself or a luxury corporate gift, Duffle&Co is all about quality, responsibility, and heart.
