Get to know David Wommelsdorff

In today’s Customer Spotlight, we’re thrilled to dive into the journey of Mighty Good Basics with founder David Wommelsdorff. As a leader in the Fairtrade movement, Mighty Good Basics is making waves for its ethical approach to fashion. And the excitement doesn’t stop there—this year, the brand earned an impressive 90% rating in the Baptist World Aid Ethical Fashion Guide 2024! Read on for David’s full insights into how they’re transforming fashion, one responsible choice at a time.

 

Tell me something that excites you about your role within Might Good Basics?

I set out on the journey of MG/B to try and create a brand that could contribute meaningfully to changing the fashion industry for the better. Fast fashion has long dominated the landscape, but we’re trying to prove that ethical and sustainable practices can be just as successful. Knowing that our efforts inspire consumers to rethink their purchasing habits and encourage other brands to follow suit excites me and keeps me motivated every day.

 

What are Mighty Good Basics’ sustainability priorities?

MG/B is built on a foundation of sustainability, with our priorities focusing on three key areas: ethical production, environmental responsibility, and transparency. We ensure every step of our supply chain upholds the highest ethical standards, from using certified fairtrade organic cotton to guaranteeing living wages and safe working conditions for all workers. We’re committed to reducing our environmental footprint by choosing sustainable materials, minimizing waste, and striving for circularity in our products.  Transparency and authenticity is central to what we do and we look to empower our customers with information about where and how their garments are made, so they can make informed, conscious choices.

 

What are the key challenges in achieving them, and what kind of leadership do you demonstrate?

One of the biggest challenges is ensuring ethical practices and environmental responsibility at every stage and this requires constant vigilance, collaboration, and a willingness to innovate. Another key challenge is educating consumers about the true cost of sustainable fashion while competing with fast fashion’s convenience and price points.

I try to focus on fostering collaboration and empowering our team to tackle these challenges creatively and proactively. I prioritise transparency and accountability, both within the company and in our communications with stakeholders. By leading with purpose and demonstrating a clear commitment to our values, I aim to inspire not only our team but also hopefully our customers and industry peers, to help drive meaningful change together.

 

Can you share a career highlight with us?

One of my proudest career moments was during the COVID-19 pandemic, when we made the decision to support our factories and workers by not canceling orders, even whilst their production facilities were shut down. It was a challenging time for everyone, but we prioritized human safety over productivity and profits. This moment reinforced our commitment to the people in our supply chain and demonstrated that ethical business practices truly matter, especially in times of crisis. It’s a decision that continues to remind me why we do what we do.

 

Finally, what does Fairtrade mean for you and Mighty Good Basics?

Fairtrade is at the heart of what we stand for and so for us, it represents a commitment to empowering workers by ensuring they receive fair wages, safe working conditions, and access to opportunities for growth. It’s about fostering a more just and equitable global supply chain where people and communities thrive, not just profit margins. Fairtrade certification also aligns with our broader sustainability goals, as it ensures that the materials we use are ethically sourced and that the entire production process upholds human rights. For MG/B, it’s more than just a certification; it’s a core value that drives our business decisions and reinforces our dedication to making a positive impact in the fashion industry.

Sign up