Want to Support refugees? Discover Klabu! Sportswear with…

KLABU is an initiative by the KLABU Foundation that operates on a non-profit basis. Its main activity is building and operating sports clubhouses in refugee camps, settlements and cities. It funds these activities primarily through donations from institutions, companies and private individuals, and proceeds from the sale of KLABU sportswear. The KLABU Foundation is registered as a Public Benefit Organisation (ANBI) in the Netherlands.

KLABU works with producers in Italy and Bulgaria. EU‑based production guarantees stringent regulations regarding labour standards and environmental practices, ensuring ethical and sustainable manufacturing processes.

The brand also hopes to collaborate with talented newcomers in the Netherlands and refugee camps. “Producing sportswear in refugee camps would close the circle and help residents to earn an income. That’s the future,” says Van Hövell.

Some of their production also takes place in Turkey and China. This could offer economic opportunities in these locations, but these countries have different labour laws and standards compared to the EU. This brings challenges in terms of transparency, accountability, and adherence to social and ethical norms.

KLABU claims that all their sportswear is made with actual 100% recycled polyester from PET and all their cotton products use 100% organic cotton.

The majority of KLABU sportswear production takes place in Europe or Turkey. The proximity of these production locations to key markets in Europe significantly cuts down on transportation distances and emissions.

The majority of their packaging is 100% biodegradable polybags.

KLABU produces mainly mono-material garments, making them easily recyclable at the end of use. Their use of recyclable and recycled materials in their products promotes material circularity.

KLABU encourages participation in their circular efforts by returning sportswear items at the end of use. The brand finds new life for these items, either by upcycling them into new products or integrating them into their sports projects.

KLABU majority of its garment production based in Europe, specifically Italy and Bulgaria, and some in Turkey. The production in proximity to their primary market potentially reduces transportation emissions compared to more distant manufacturing locations.

However, the mention of some products being made in China adds complexity to their supply chain, potentially increasing the environmental footprint due to longer transportation distances. Without specific details on their production locations, material sourcing, or transportation methods within the supply chain, it is difficult to fully assess the overall environmental impact.

The brand does not seem to use any animal derived products, hence can, in-theory, be called a vegan brand.

There’s no seasonal collection at KLABU, no outdated stock, and hence a longer life cycle for each product.

Their designs are timeless and unisex, appealing to a broad audience and transcending fleeting fashion trends. Every piece has a story and purpose.

The brand provides basic wash and care instructions to maintain the longevity of their products.

KLABU shows a commendable level of transparency regarding its social missions, clearly communicating its intentions and objectives in supporting refugee communities. This openness in their social endeavours is a significant strength, highlighting their commitment to social responsibility.

However, when it comes to manufacturing standards, there is a lack in transparency. Detailed information on the certifications of their materials, specific transportation methods used in their supply chain, and the chemicals involved in their manufacturing processes is not readily available. This lack of detailed disclosure makes it challenging for consumers and stakeholders to fully assess the environmental and ethical implications of their manufacturing practices.

This area presents an opportunity for KLABU to build even greater trust with its audience.