Entrepreneur Blake Mycoskie shares how he started TOMS shoes with a philanthropic model. He discusses the challenges, successes, and evolution of TOMS, from a niche brand to a major company. The podcast also features a postscript on how Chris Healy created special hair ties for men with long hair.
Inspired by a shoe drive in Argentina, Blake Mycoskie founded TOMS with a 'One for One' model blending style and social impact.
TOMS gained traction through PR efforts and key account placements, sparking a surge in sales and visibility.
To address critiques about job creation, TOMS redirected manufacturing to countries they serve, showcasing a commitment to social responsibility.
Deep dives
The Genesis of an Idea in Argentina
While in Argentina, Blake encounters a group doing a shoe drive for children in need, sparking the idea for a business model that gives back. Inspired by the experience, he decides to start a shoe company where for every pair sold, a pair would be donated to a child in need. This concept takes shape with the creation of TOMS shoes, blending style with social impact.
The Start of TOMS Shoes in LA
Returning to LA, Blake begins selling TOMS shoes, initially targeting friends and acquaintances. The unique selling proposition of 'One for One' gains traction, attracting buyers intrigued by the brand's charitable mission. Through PR efforts and securing a key account at a trendy LA store, TOMS gains visibility, eventually leading to a substantial boost in sales.
Scaling TOMS Shoes
Following a viral article in the LA Times, TOMS experiences a surge in demand, causing logistical challenges due to limited inventory. To meet the overwhelming orders, Blake recruits interns to manage customer service and embarks on a swift return to Argentina to scale up shoe production. Subsequently, TOMS establishes a thriving business model driven by social responsibility and innovative marketing strategies.
Tom's Journey to Success
Blake's journey with Tom's began with an innovative approach to giving back through business. Instead of just selling shoes, they donated a pair for each sold. This unique concept quickly gained attention and led to features in Vogue and skyrocketing interest from stores and celebrities alike, propelling Tom's into a global brand.
The Evolution of Tom's and Social Impact
As Tom's success grew, so did their responsibility to address critiques about job creation in the countries they serve. In response, Blake redirected manufacturing to these nations, enhancing local economies. This adaptation showcased a commitment to social responsibility, solidifying Tom's model as a pioneer in conscious consumerism and inspiring other businesses to integrate giving into their core practices.
Blake Mycoskie started and sold four businesses before age 30. But only in Argentina did he discover the idea he'd want to pursue long term. After seeing a shoe drive for children, he came up with TOMS — part shoe business, part philanthropy. PLUS in our postscript "How You Built That," how a long-haired Southern Californian, Chris Healy, co-founded The Longhairs and created special hair ties for guys.
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