This is the Wandergreen company, founded in 2020, which produces and markets backpacks and accessories made of treated kraft paper, which becomes a washable, resistant and recyclable fabric.
In May 2020, in a context marked by the uncertainty of the pandemic, Ignacio Ciarrocca founded Wandergreen, a company that aims to redefine the accessories market in Argentina.. Inspired by his homeland, Ushuaia, Ciarrocca wanted to create an innovative and sustainable product, giving something back to the region where he grew up. “With the travel agency Chida Holiday & Trip Planners, which I still have with two partners, paralyzed by travel restrictions, I decided to create a sustainable brand with a truly differential product,” says the founder.
Wandergreen takes its name from the wandering albatross (“wandering albatross” in English), a typical bird from Tierra del Fuego that symbolizes robustness and freedom. The brand’s great innovation lies in its material: treated kraft paper, which becomes a washable, resistant and recyclable fabric.. With this commitment, the company positions itself as a pioneer in the country. However, the beginnings were not easy. “The first year was testing. I produced less than 50 backpacks to sell to family and friends to evaluate the quality of the material,” Ciarrocca recalls. “At first, it was difficult to make people understand that the paper was durable, washable and water-repellent.”
Ignacio Ciarroca .jpg
To overcome these barriers, Wandergreen opted for communication strategies focused on social networks, demonstrative videos and the validation of clients and influencers. In addition, it achieved presence in stores such as Tienda MALBA and Alparamis, where customers could experience the product live. Today, their backpacks can carry up to 10 kilos, are water repellent and can be hand washed.
With an initial investment of $200,000, the company grew significantly in a very short time. “This year we plan to end up with 8,000 products in permanent stock to meet market demand.. We are adding new colors and products all the time,” says Ciarrocca. Currently the firm offers backpacks, tote bags, backpacks, laptop cases and caps. By 2025, they plan to double production and launch new lines such as maternal backpacks and lunch boxes, while projecting themselves to the international market.
Environmental and social impact
Wandergreen is distinguished by its commitment to triple impact: economic, environmental and social. For every backpack sold, the company donates a tree for the reforestation of Patagonia. “We have donated 2,000 trees and we plan to exceed 5,000 in 2025. We plant with NGOs that work under the supervision of National Park specialists to reforest burned areas with native species,” explains the founder of the firm. “Native forests ensure water regulation, the conservation of biodiversity and the mitigation of climate change,” adds Ciarrocca.
In the social sphere, collaborate with the IDEL Foundation to promote the labor inclusion of people with disabilities. “The foundation team carries out an exhaustive quality test on all our products, checking closures, materials and placing brand stickers and postcards on them,” details Ciarrocca. Currently, 25 workers participate in this process. “We mutually transform our lives: they have a decent job, and we learn from their passion and dedication,” he reflects.
The truth is that operating in the Argentine socioeconomic context has been a constant challenge for Wandergreen. Lack of predictability and access to credit were some of the initial obstacles. However, Ciarrocca is optimistica: “We are confident that we are on the right track and that in 2025 changes will increase that will allow us to plan in the medium and long term.”
Source: Ambito
David William is a talented author who has made a name for himself in the world of writing. He is a professional author who writes on a wide range of topics, from general interest to opinion news. David is currently working as a writer at 24 hours worlds where he brings his unique perspective and in-depth research to his articles, making them both informative and engaging.
