It started a while ago…
At James&Co, we’re redefining fashion and lifestyle with products made exclusively from sustainable materials—no plastic, 100% plant-based, and timeless in design.
Our journey has been one of transformation, innovation, and resilience. Since our launch in 2012, we’ve undergone remarkable pivots, always staying true to our mantra: “I do not give up.”
Originally, James&Co began as both a B2C and B2B brand, specializing in women’s vegan and cruelty-free faux leather jackets and accessories (see some images below). From the outset, our mission was clear: to seamlessly blend style, sustainability, and ethical practices.
As awareness grew around the environmental impact of synthetic "vegan leather," we made a bold decision—discontinuing our plastic-based jackets and accessories.
Recognizing the potential of emerging plant-based fabrics, James&Co transitioned to a B2B model, introducing sustainable materials such as washable paper, cork leather, organic textiles like cotton and hemp, and soon, innovative tomato leather to the Australian market. However, adoption within relevant industries has been slow, leading to a strategic shift toward more distinct sustainable materials.
To refine its focus, James&Co restructured into three specialized brands:
- James&Co – continuing to develop premium, plant-based, plastic-free leather alternatives in washable paper and tomato leather.
- CORKSTORE – dedicated exclusively to cork-based products.
- Earth Totes – specializing in organic textile-based offerings.
This strategic separation enables each brand to sharpen its niche, catering more effectively to sustainability-conscious consumers and businesses seeking eco-friendly alternatives in their respective product categories.
For more of the story of the James&Co beginning, how and why our brand's products do make a difference for the future of our planet, read the books written by our founder Anne Hurley and available on Amazon:
For The Planet By 2030: We Need To Switch To Sustainable Alternative Leather.
