Avida, Rags2Riches forge partnership

AVIDA LAND, a unit of Ayala Land Inc., has partnered with Rags2Riches to help increase demand for handmade products designed to enrich lives.

Rags2Riches recently launched its newest collection of home accessories out of upcycled scrap cloth, organic materials and indigenous fabrics.

Among these products, the handwoven rugs and pillow cases by R2R artisans will be sold online and offered to Avida residents.

The partnership aims “to spread empowerment through Rags2Riches. We can create  a more positive effect in communities. They will be part of the story of change,” says Reese Fernandez-Ruiz, president of Rags2Riches.

Tess Tatco, marketing head of Avida Land, says the company chose to partner with the renowned social enterprise because the two entities share the same business principle of putting a premium on quality and innovation.

They also believe in being agents of change.

“Our greatest wish is that R2R weavers will be a part of the Avida community,” she says.

R2R has an active core of 200 artisans who produce quality clutches, bags, accessories and home decor, but has trained some 900, mostly from urban poor communities.

According to Ruiz, R2R acts like a bridge between artisans and the market.

“Think of it as a fashion and design house who empowers and employs artisans instead of factory workers. It is an employment integrating every part of the supply chain. [The artisans] are also represented in the board,” she adds.

“The home collection is an extension of what we have. The fashion line still exists. [We’re] not just a fashion brand but a lifestyle brand,” she adds.

For its part, Avida Land wants to forge more collaborations that will increase the quality of life of people it serves.

“As of July, we have turned over 23,500 units that will bring these creations into their homes as welcome gifts. Through these items, they are also uplifting the lives of the women weavers,” Tatco says.