Allbirds to close stores for staff to attend Climate Strike marches

Allbirds, the ethical footwear brand, is closing its stores and offices tomorrow to enable staff to attend Climate Strike marches.

The San Francisco-based brand, which last year opened a store on Covent Garden's Long Acre, joins Dame Vivienne Westwood in the action. The British designer revealed yesterday that she too would be closing stores and offices to enable staff to take part in the youth-led movement.

Allbirds is backed by, among others Leonardo Di Caprio, and counts celebrities such as Will Smith, Hugh Jackman, Ashton Kutcher and Amanda Seyfried as fans of its sustainable wool shoes and socks.

Joey Zwillinger, co-CEO and co-founder of Allbirds, said: “The environment is one of our most important stakeholders, and as we grow in size and influence, we have an opportunity — a responsibility — to use our voice to speak out against inaction in the face of dire consequences of climate change.”

He added: “This is a moment to demand action from our leaders in ensuring there is a healthy planet for future generations.”

Allbirds' products are made from premium natural materials, including ZQ-certified Merino wool, sustainably sourced eucalyptus tree fibre, and a green EVA sole made from sugarcane.

The company was launched in 2016, but has already established itself as a Public Benefit Corporation in 2015. The company is also a certified B Corp, focused on conserving the environment and treat purpose as seriously as profit.