Barebones started as a philanthropic side project in Robert Workman's garage in 2014. With a small, excited team, innovative product ideas, and relationships established with suppliers, the company took off, flourishing into what it is today. Of course, that’s the short story.
When telling the story of how a company started, suppliers are often left off the list. As a B Corp and philanthropic-forward company that prioritizes ethical business practices, Barebones is working to tell that story by offering transparency into our relationships with suppliers. Because without them, our products wouldn't exist.
Barebones currently has business relationships with suppliers in China, Pakistan, Taiwan, and India, and we are working on new partnerships in Thailand. Although our company is headquartered in Utah, our business is worldwide. Creating jobs is not limited to the United States borders, and we believe in helping people establish stability and learn new skills all over the world. It is within our brand mission to remove cultural barriers that perpetuate stereotypes about artisans simply based on provenance.
Over the years, we have had customers ask why our products are made internationally, especially when it comes to production in China. This is a valid question with a complex answer. Simply put, our suppliers build excellent products with accessible pricing models. They are set up to produce at scale, and many product components are sourced locally to their region, which reduces cost, and helps reduce overall carbon footprint. For example, you can read more about the sustainability efforts of waxed canvas goods in Pakistan.
Beyond the tactical reasons, there is also a softer side. Robert has been building relationships with vendors internationally since the mid-80s, well before the inception of Barebones. They are beyond work confidants. They are friends. They are family.
Forming Friendships: BD & Robert
Before the inception of Barebones, Robert had a career with Circuit, a brand renowned for its crafting technology and materials for the DIY community. Building upon his successful venture, Robert forged a strong partnership with a man who goes by BD, a key player in materials sourcing and manufacturing processes in China. What set BD apart was his shared commitment to improving manufacturing processes and enhancing the lives of workers.
After years at the helm of Cricut, Robert redirected his focus towards philanthropy, aiming to address power issues in underserved communities. Thus, the well-known company Goal Zero was born, providing portable power solutions (and continues to do so to this day).
Despite his achievements, Robert remained steadfast in his mission to foster economic growth in disadvantaged areas. Thus, Barebones emerged. With the help of BD in China, the company was initially focused on sourcing tents for shelter in disaster relief areas. As the brand expanded to include garden tools and lighting, it sought more partners aligned with its values of integrity and sustainability.
With Goal Zero, BD continued to support us with inspections. However, when I started Barebones he became much more intricately involved, and even now his company still produces our wood products like our Ridgetop Chairs and Folding Tables”. - Robert
Barebones & Buy It For Life
As Barebones expanded, BD became a key partner, thanks to his & Robert’s long-standing relationship. Together, they pioneered the Buy It For Life category, overseeing manufacturing and upholding Barebones' high standards.
The "Buy It For Life" (BIFL) category refers to products that are designed and manufactured to last a lifetime or significantly longer than typical consumer goods. These products prioritize durability, quality craftsmanship, and longevity over planned obsolescence, encouraging us to make fewer purchases over time by investing in high-quality items that will not need frequent replacement. BIFL products often come with warranties or guarantees, reflecting the manufacturer's confidence in their longevity.
Transparency & Supporting Local Economies
Our partners aren't just suppliers, manufacturers, or logistics teams. They're investors who hold a stake in Barebones. This drastically improves transparency and accountability and allows for a vertically integrated approach to our business.
Barebones production empowers individuals worldwide, regardless of their origins. With a shared belief in this sustainable supply chain model, Barebones and BD ensure transparency at every production stage.
Despite facing challenges such as relocating manufacturing to different countries for sustainability, Barebones maintains its commitment to supporting local economies. We prioritize avoiding cost-cutting measures that could harm the workforce or the environment. Today, as a certified B-Corp, Barebones continues to be committed to global equality.
