We work with three factories who manufacture all our products in Kolkata, India. In 2010, O My Bag founder and CEO, Paulien made the conscious decision to manufacture in India to promote fair trade, better job opportunities and sustainable practices within the leather industry. We only work with producers who share our principles. Over the years we have built strong relationships with them, through mutual respect and honesty. We talk to our producers on a daily basis. All our factories are SA8000 certified to ensure that they operate under fair conditions, and EMA is a guaranteed member of the World Fair Trade Organization. Twice a year, we spend two weeks visiting them to reconnect, observe the production process, and ensure that ethical practices are being upheld.
Factories
Over the years we have built strong relationships with our factories through respect and honesty.
STC Factory
STC is a well-run family business with around 500 employees, all of whom have access to healthcare and social benefits like retirement funds. Ipshita, the daughter of one of the founders, manages the entire O My Bag department.
We began working with STC in late 2014, and today they are responsible for producing a significant portion of our collection.
O My Bag was the first brand for which STC created a vegetable tanned leather line. They are also partnering with local NGOs to train young women in leather craftsmanship, helping to create more skilled job opportunities for women in their factory. To further reduce their environmental impact, solar panels supply all of the factory’s energy during the day. As a true leader in the Kolkata leather industry, STC is always striving to innovate and enhance their production processes.
"We would love to have as
many women as possible
at the factory."
EMA Factory
We’ve been partnering with the Equitable Marketing Association (EMA) since our very first year in 2010. Established in 1977, EMA is a proud member of the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO).
Entering EMA feels like stepping into a serene oasis, away from the bustling streets of Kolkata. In the heart of the site, there’s a peaceful garden filled with trees and flowers. A vegetable garden on the premises provides fresh herbs and veggies used in their daily lunch offerings. Currently, 139 people work at EMA, enjoying regular skill training, health insurance, social benefits like maternity leave, and a wholesome, freshly prepared lunch each day.
EMA is a women-led organization that employs marginalized individuals, including artisans, farmers, craftsmen, and weavers, providing them with sustainable livelihoods. Among their workers are the Dustbag ladies, who craft all of O My Bag’s dustbags. This group was started by a former factory worker who noticed the need for employment in his village. He left his job and set up a sewing workshop for local women, empowering them to support themselves. These ladies now make all O My Bag’s dustbags!
As O My Bag grows and evolves, we’re thrilled to see EMA and its incredible team grow alongside us
"Everybody talks to each
other like it's one big family."
Our partner since 2010
Based in Baruipur, India
139 employees
Member of the World Fair Trade Organization
Bella Pouch is made here
Springfield Factory
We’ve been proud partners with Springfield Factory since 2015, and working with them has always been a pleasure. Founded in 2002 by J.S. Sawhney, a true expert in the field, Springfield carries on a family tradition of handbag production dating back to 1957. Our values align closely with those of Springfield, as they share our commitment to crafting bags of exceptional quality while ensuring fair production practices.
All employees at Springfield enjoy health and accident insurance, as well as social security benefits like retirement and unemployment funds. Just like at all our partner factories, women are paid equally and receive maternity leave.
Springfield is deeply committed to sustainability. They have installed solar panels in 2023 and operate with 100% renewable energy. The father-and-son management team ensures that factory waste is recycled, and that water is used responsibly.
“We never compromise on
quality and always strive to give
the best raw materials and
craftsmanship possible.”
Our partner since 2015
Based in Kolkata, India
77 employees
SA8000 certified
Our Kendalini is made here
In addition to the three factories we work with, we also work with five incredible partners to create our products.
