Dear Shaker community,

I wanted to say a huge thank you for your unwavering support throughout our journey. It's been a wonderful ride and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to serve you over this time, and to contribute to the wider discussion about sustainability in fashion.  

I created Shaker because I care deeply about animal welfare. With the help of many wonderful and talented people, I built the brand with the hope of demonstrating to the wider world that beautiful fashion didn't have to involve leather, and all the cruel and environmentally damaging practices it entails. It's been heartening to see the realm of non-leathers flourish and improve.
 
Whilst we've endeavoured to make the most sustainably-minded handbags, backpacks and wallets possible, I have - ironically - been unable to build a financially sustainable business. I have pursued many paths to try to keep the company alive, but have found no viable options.

Creating and building a brand involves a tremendous number of resources and I had hoped that more people would prioritise sustainability and animal welfare in their choices. However, the reality is that we're not quite there yet and of course difficult macro-economic headwinds have not helped our cause. Nevertheless, I remain optimistic that the tide will turn in the future, and conscious consumerism will become the norm.

I would like to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks to the incredible team that has been the backbone of Shaker. Your dedication, hard work, and unwavering support have been nothing short of extraordinary. To our investors - thank you so much for your support and for believing in our mission. I am so very sorry that I couldn't make it work. To our cherished customers, your enthusiasm, encouragement, and loyalty during the challenging times have been a constant source of inspiration. And to our wider community of cheerleaders - thank you. Without every single one of you, Shaker would not have come this far.

As we close this chapter, let's remember that change begins with each one of us. Let's continue to champion the values that Shaker stood for - kindness, a sustainable-mindset, and constant incremental improvement - in our everyday choices. Together, we can create a more compassionate world for all beings.

With profound gratitude and hope for the future,

Jessica
Founder