One critical reason that slow fashion or sustainable products come with a relatively higher price tag is that for small producers fixed costs are expenses that remain constant regardless of the number of products being produced. They include expenses like rent for manufacturing facilities, salaries of skilled artisans, and the procurement of specialized materials. These costs are not variable based on order quantities, making them a significant burden for small producers. While the quality from a small producer may not be the best, the process certainly incurs less adverse impact on the environment and the workers.We ought to keep this perspective in mind when purchasing a premium-priced item from a small producer.
In light of these considerations, we, as a small business, have carefully reflected on our values and commitment to sustainability. While the allure of participating in Black Friday sales may promise a surge in short-term revenue, we have chosen to resist this trend for several reasons.
Firstly, the ethos of our business revolves around promoting responsible and sustainable practices. The rush for Black Friday deals often encourages mass consumption and contributes to the acceleration of a throwaway culture. By abstaining from participating in this consumer-driven event, we aim to encourage a more mindful and deliberate approach to purchasing.
Secondly, as a small producer, our commitment to quality and sustainability comes with inherent challenges. Offering steep discounts during Black Friday would necessitate compromising on the fair compensation of skilled artisans, the sourcing of ethical materials, and maintaining environmentally conscious production practices. Our fixed costs, which include rent for manufacturing facilities and fair wages for artisans, remain consistent regardless of the scale of production or festive season. Participating in Black Friday sales could undermine the very principles we stand for by pressuring us to cut corners that compromise the integrity of our products.
Furthermore, we believe in fostering a deeper connection between consumers and the products they purchase. Understanding the true cost of production, both in monetary and environmental terms, is integral to making informed choices as consumers. Our decision to forgo Black Friday sales aligns with our commitment to transparency and enables us to educate our customers about the real value embedded in our products.
In essence, our choice not to participate in Black Friday sales is a conscientious decision to prioritize our values over short-term gains. We believe in offering products that embody quality, sustainability, and ethical craftsmanship, and we invite our customers to join us in making thoughtful choices that resonate with these principles, even during the frenzied holiday shopping season.