Quality socks without long journeys: Local production, global quality
Join us to explore the story of Fusakle, a brand that exemplifies the perfect blend of local production and global quality. In our interview with Zuzana Srnáková, the company’s marketing manager, we will provide insight into how this Slovak company approaches product production, emphasizing the minimalization of environmental impact and support for the local economy. We will also delve into the creative processes, charitable activities, and future ambitions of the brand, which aims to become synonymous with quality socks in Slovakia.
What do you think about the Made in Slovakia project and why did you decide to support it?
We are very pleased that projects like "Made in Slovakia" exist. They help inform the public about the products made in Slovakia and highlight the talented individuals behind them. Given that the business environment in Slovakia can be challenging, it is essential for as many people as possible to learn about these achievements and the remarkable people contributing to them.
Fusakle has become a well-known brand in Slovakia. What do you think makes your products unique and sets them apart from the competition?
I believe our uniqueness lies primarily in our local production. Our products have always been, and continue to be, manufactured exclusively in Slovakia and the Czech Republic. This allows us to provide employment to skilled Slovak and Czech workers, of whom we have many. Additionally, it gives us the flexibility to reflect current events in our designs. For instance, when the war in Ukraine broke out, we quickly designed new socks, sent them to production, and made them available for pre-order. We donated 100% of the profits from these socks to "Človek v ohrození (Man in Peril)", an organization aiding people at the border. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and the Slovaks’ desire to help truly warmed our hearts.
What is the story behind some of your favourite designs?
My personal favourite collection is the mountains and mountain huts series. We created it during the pandemic, a time when many people started exploring the outdoors, discovering the magic of our mountains, and choosing local destinations over international travel. With these socks, we aimed to highlight the beauty of our mountains and the importance of supporting local businesses, especially during challenging times. We featured mountain huts in the High Tatras on the socks and sent them to the hut owners to sell. As a result, you can buy them directly at the chalets as souvenirs. This collaboration was very special, as it not only guided people on where to go but also supported the huts. Visually, I believe it is a very appealing collection.
Are you also involved in other projects?
From the very beginning, we have been engaged in the charity collection "Pomáham (I help)", where we produce socks for various civic associations and non-profit organizations that assist those in need. We have long-standing partnerships with "Úsmev ako dar (Smile as a Gift)", "Svetielko nádeje (Light of Hope)" and "Liga proti rakovine (League Against Cancer)". Proceeds from the sale of socks featuring specific designs always go to these organizations. These socks are designed to represent the organizations, allowing customers to support them by purchasing a quality Slovak product. In addition to creating our own designs, we collaborate with student organizations. Students submit their designs, which we then transform into actual products. This involvement provides students with valuable experience in production, allowing them to see their designs come to life and reach the market. By encouraging young people in their creativity, they gain insight into the entire production process. Ultimately, seeing their designs become tangible products available for purchase is an incredibly rewarding experience for them.
How do you approach sustainability and environmental aspects in production?
Our biggest asset is local production. By ensuring our products don't travel halfway around the world to reach customers or stores, we significantly reduce the carbon footprint and avaid the issues associated with long-distance transportation. We employ people in Slovakia, supporting local employment and the Slovak economy. Additionally, we produce in small quantities, avoiding overproduction and the creation of excess inventory that could lead to textile waste if unsold. We prefer to produce in smaller batches and replenish stock as needed. This approach helps us optimise both financially and environmentally.
Where do you see your business moving in the future? Is there a milestone you haven't yet reached that you would like to achieve?
Our long-term vision is to employ people in Slovakia and to create high-quality Slovak products. With our name "Fusakle", we are uniquely positioned to make socks our main business. We aspire to become synonymous with socks, so that when someone thinks of buying any kind of socks, the immediately think of Fusakle. Whether it is everyday socks, skiing socks, health socks, socks for swollen feet, or children’s socks, we want customers to find everything they need under one roof, knowing they are purchasing a quality product made in Slovakia.
How are your designs created?
We develop product designs based on what is popular with our customers, often incorporating their suggestions and feedback. When customers request specific designs, we strive to bring their ideas to life. Our flexibility allows us to quickly create new designs of collections. Additionally, we draw inspiration from local culture and landmarks, such as notable places in Slovakia and significant social events. For instance, we created collections for the 100th anniversary of the Czechoslovak Republic, in support of Ukraine, and featuring our favourite monuments, castles, and mountains. Our designs include Bratislava, the UFO tower, bees, and many other local symbols.
A few words in conclusion
I am very pleased that projects like "Made in Slovakia" highlight Slovak producers. I would like to appeal to all of you, as consumers, to consider the choices you make. If we want to thrive in Slovakia, it is crucial to support domestic products because our quality is, dare I say it, world-class. By choosing Slovak products made in Slovakia, whether from us or other Slovak brands, you are supporting employment, our skilled workforce, our economy, and our overall development.