As Recycle Week kicks off across New Zealand this week, we're reminded that sustainability isn't a single gesture—it's woven into everything we do. From the materials we choose to the way we invite our community to participate, we're committed to creating beautiful leather goods that tread more lightly on our planet.

Making Things That Last (And Last)

At SABEN, we've always believed the most sustainable product is one you never need to replace. Every piece we craft is designed with longevity in mind—premium leather that develops character over time, reinforced stitching, and timeless silhouettes that transcend seasonal trends. When you invest in quality, you're already making a positive choice.

The Handbag Giveback Programme

But we know that even the most cherished pieces sometimes need a new home. That's why we created our Handbag Giveback Programme—an initiative that keeps SABEN bags in circulation and out of landfill.

Here's how it works: customers return their preloved SABEN bags to us, and our skilled team refurbishes them with care. These beautifully restored pieces then find new life at our Workroom Sale, where they're snapped up by savvy shoppers who appreciate quality and sustainability in equal measure.

This October, our Workroom Sale raised over $10,000 for our charity partner Woven Earth—a New Zealand social enterprise creating loving homes for family violence survivors and their children. It's a full-circle moment: extending the life of our products while supporting meaningful change in our community.

Becoming a B Corp

This year marked a significant milestone for SABEN: we achieved B Corp certification. This third-party accreditation isn't just a badge—it's a rigorous assessment of our impact across our workers, customers, community, and environment. It holds us accountable to the standards we've always aspired to and pushes us to keep improving.

B Corp certification means our commitment to conscious production isn't just a promise; it's measured, verified, and ongoing.

The Bigger Picture

Recycle Week is a valuable reminder that sustainability is a collective effort. Whether you're participating in a workplace initiative, learning to recycle more effectively at home, or choosing to invest in products made with intention, every action counts.

For us, it's about staying true to a simple philosophy: make good handbags that are actually good. Good for the people who craft them, good for the customers who carry them, and good for the planet we all share.

Here's to small steps, lasting impact, and a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Discover more about our commitment to people and planet at saben.co.nz.