Sustainability is at the heart of what we do since our founding in 1986.
We manufacture our garments in small quantities to eliminate waste, some of our products including our wooden walking sticks and leather wallets are handmade.
Our garments are manufactured to last â with customers getting years of wear out of their Lee Valley Ireland shirts, sleepwear and more. Our clothes and accessories are designed with timelessness in mind; invest in a Lee Valley Ireland shirt today, it will be just as stylish in 10 years times.
Our design strategy promotes the sustainable concept of 'slow fashion', where our garments/products are designed and made to be worn/used time and time again. Sustainable fabric and high-quality, long-lasting products define our brand philosophy.
Our products are made in Ireland, and we are proud members of Guaranteed Irishâ˘, and the Design and Crafts Council of Irelandâ˘.
Community
Being the most significant employer in our local area for over 35 years, Lee Valley Ireland is an established part of the local community and continues to provide employment in a highly skilled business in a rural area. We are an equal opportunities employer with the workforce at 50% men and 50% women. This ratio is apparent across all levels in the group from junior roles to senior management.
Raw materials
WE MAKE CLOTHING FROM SUSTAINABLE AND NATURAL MATERIALS THAT HAVE A LOW IMPACT ON THE PLANET.
We use the highest quality raw materials including: 100% linen, 100% cotton, 100% wool, 100% cashmere, and 100% leather all of which are naturally sustainable and biodegradable. All fabric is tested by third parties ICQ and Intertech to industry standards.
In 2021, we introduced an Organic Cotton range. Organic cotton crops are grown without any genetic-modification, chemical pesticides, or insecticides.
In 2021 we launched a Tencel⢠shirt. Tencel⢠branded lyocell and modal fibres are produced by environmentally responsible processes from the sustainably sourced natural raw material wood.
Manufacturing
Warping, weaving, and finishing of fabric is done in house, allowing for complete control. Mild detergents are used, similar to those of domestic washing machine concentrations.
All walking sticks and leather accessories are handmade.
Local water is used in our production of garments and accessories. Cork has a high volume and frequency of rainfall, (1230mm p.a.), this resource is not under pressure from a shortage. Our office and manufacturing facility is powered by solar panels.
