This week in our ‘Youngtrepreneur’ series we speak to alumnus of Radley College, Lockie Cunningham. Lockie founded Sans Matin after his own pair of trainers, whilst backpacking, fell apart. He was in need of something comfortable and affordable.

---

Moment of inspiration
I sensibly tumble-dried and melted my trainers whilst travelling with Charly (cousin & Co-founder), and so went looking for a stylish, comfortable, affordable and versatile trainer from a brand whose ethos we believed in. Nothing we found ticked all the boxes and the idea was born.

Describe your brand
Whilst style, versatility and unparalleled comfort were key, we have set out our brand to be built on ethical, sustainable and with charitable practices.

The most important skill you’ve learnt
To be as agile and adaptable as possible at a moment’s notice. No better example of this is the curve ball that COVID has thrown.

Importance of sustainable production
Sustainability is at the forefront of our minds. We locally source all our materials to minimise our carbon footprint and waste. All our packaging and shoes bags are made from recycled carboard, PET (recycled plastic bottles) and recycled cottons. We’ve created SMCycle where you can recycle your old SM shoes to complete their lifecycle.

Any new products in development?
We have just launched our hightop collection and are also developing unisex espadrilles and platforms for the summer.

Best advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
If you have a dream or a vision, go for it. If you don’t try you’ll never know if you could have made the dream become a reality.

Where do you want to be in five years’ time?
To become a global household name, reach six figures in donations to charity, and to have launched our campaign to aid the replanting of our rainforests.

---

 

Read further features in this series HERE