Above: Examples from the August/Wessco range
March 30, 2016 – Airline amenities specialist, Wessco International, has entered into a collaborative design partnership with August, an LA-based design duo with a growing reputation for creating elegant bags and accessories.
The background of August is not the typical ‘fancy designs from a fancy studio’ story though. In 2011, the company’s founders (and husband and wife) Charles and Jenna Jackson set off together on a life-changing world trip. The journey would take them to the top of Africa in Tanzania, the bottom of the Americas in Patagonia, the cities of Europe, and the rivers of Asia in Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. In these locations they sought out inspiration for a new range of bags and accessories.
Along their journey, however, Charles and Jenna saw many places where children lived in extreme poverty, an emotional experience that proved more significant to the pair than the designs and textiles they found on their travels. The result was that when they returned home, they decided that August’s designs should be locally manufactured in California, using locally sourced materials and a humanitarian approach. In addition, to help underserved LA schoolchildren, August has joined Operation School Bell, a scheme which helps ensure these children have appropriate school clothing. For every August brand bag sold, the company donates a backpack to the cause.
Above: Underprivileged kids in LA can learn in style with the August backpacks, donated to Operation School Bell
Impressed with August’s designs and ethos, Wessco is now collaborating with the company on fresh and functional collections for airlines and other travel clients. These collections may be inspired by existing August patterns and materials, or airlines can work closely with designers from August and Wessco to create bespoke products that echo the farthest corners of the globe.
“We couldn’t be more excited about partnering with Wessco,” commented August’s Jenna Jackson. “They really understand the importance of multi-functional items in travel, and that’s what we strive for in all of our products. Their dedication to re-usable functionality – creating things that people take with them again and again – is right in line with our values.”
Wessco COO Nick Bregman added, “August is the perfect companion for the new generation of jet-set traveler who values ethical production and artisan craftsmanship. Wessco is pleased to feature August as a lifestyle and design partner for our global travel clients.”
You can visit Wessco at stand 1H50 at World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo in Hamburg, Germany on April 5-7. For other news about the Expo, SEE HERE.
