About Cork Material

Cork leather, also known as cork, cork fabric and cork material, is a sustainable textile derived from the bark of the cork oak tree. This material is eco-friendly, as the tree regenerates its bark after harvesting, ensuring no harm to the tree. The bark is processed into a durable, pliable fabric with a texture resembling traditional leather but featuring unique natural variations.

Retailing James&Co products made in cork provides retailers with the stand-out opportunity to offer products made in a unique textile and the unique selling proposition of unique products in a relatively new and growing market of demand by eco-conscience customers. 

  • Sustainable: 100% renewable, reusable, and FSC-certified, highlighting responsible sourcing.
  • Eco-friendly: cork is water, stain, and scratch-resistant, making it an excellent alternative for eco-conscious consumers.
  • Lightweight & flexible: cork’s structure is filled with air, making it extremely light (0.16 grams per cubic centimeter) and buoyant.
  • Thermal insulation: air-filled cells make cork an excellent insulator, offering low thermal conductivity across temperatures.
  • Hypoallergenic: cork does not absorb dust, making it suitable for those with allergies or asthma.
  • Abrasion resistance: honeycomb structure enhances impact resistance and durability.
  • Natural fire retardant: cork burns without a flame and does not release toxic gases during combustion.
  • Adaptability: elastic and capable of adjusting to temperature and pressure changes without damage.

FSC®

A product that is "FSC certified" means it has been certified under the FSC system. 

FSC stands for 'Forest Stewardship Council', which is a global not-for-profit organisation. The FSC goal is to protect forests for future generations. The Council does so by setting standards for “responsibly managed forests that offer environmental, social, and economic benefits.”

The FSC's “tick tree” logo showing above is used on timber and other wood products labels to indicate whether the standards have been met. The FSC logo on a label is intended to provide supplier and consumer confidence that you are not contributing to the destruction of the world’s forests.

With respect to cork, Portugal’s cork forests provide more than half of the world’s cork. They are also the livelihood of thousands of people and, in the remaining rabbit-rich original areas, are a home for the critically endangered Iberian lynx. Cork products include wine and champagne closures, notice boards, floor and wall tiles, and tableware.

James&Co ensures that our cork material collection is made using 100% natural FSC-certified cork, responsibly harvested in Portugal. See our cardholder SUZIE, compact cosmetic bag FREDA, office accessories and pet needs. James&Co has begun its new range of compact purse mirrors and compact makeup bags with cork leather and will be expanding with new products made with cork.