Marissa Freed is the President of FREED and FREED, a Canadian garment manufacturer founded over 100 years ago. Since taking over the reins from her father, Marissa has made FREED evolve to offer an array of new products — their teddy coat has been quite the editorial favourite these past few winters, among other pieces. When facing the start of the Covid pandemic, Marissa led her team through a pivot (forgive us the use of the dreaded word) and literally started to produce PPE, including masks, for frontline workers as well as consumers. Marissa wanted to be able to give back to the community and decided to partner with Indigo Arrows, a Winnnipeg-based Anishinaabe design company. The two brands created a limited edition mask collaboration, with a portion of profits benefiting an organization offering support to Indigenous communities.

Listen to Marissa’s journey as an entrepreneur and as a mom; even though she didn’t imagine she’d follow in her father’s footsteps one day and take over the reins of the family’s business, she’s definitely putting her mark on the the FREED brand today.

This season of The Brand is Female is brought to you by TD Bank - Women Entrepreneurs. TD is proud to support women entrepreneurs and help them achieve success and growth through its program of educational workshops, financing and mentorship opportunities! Find out how you can benefit from their support!

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Marissa Freed | President, FREED and FREED | Taking over the reins