Since 2010, more than 100 companies have launched products and solutions at the event, including rapidly-growing companies like Poppy Barley. This week, we sat down with Poppy Barley’s Co-Founder and Co-CEO, Kendall Barber, to discuss her experience launching her business during Launch Party. Read on to find out how Poppy Barley has put sustainability at the heart of their business.

Tell us about Poppy Barley and your focus on sustainability.

Our mission is luxury for the people and planet. We exist to re-think every step of the fashion industry to make it better – for our planet, for our people, and for our future. Our sustainably-made products are fairly-priced and designed to be worn on repeat.  

As a Certified B Corporation, we meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability. This is embedded into the laws of our corporation and means we equally consider the impact on our employees and production partners, customers, community and the environment when making decisions.

What does Edmonton Startup Week mean to you?

Edmonton Startup Week is a celebration of people, ideas and community. For us at Poppy Barley, Launch Party provided the platform and the courage to act on our ideas; to start something big! 

What impact has launching during startup week had on your business?

We launched during Launch Party 3, in 2012. That week we acquired our first customer and our first investor with the same pitch! Ever since, we've felt the support of the Edmonton entrepreneurial community.

How do you use technology in your business?

Technology is an everyday part of our business and the types of technology we use are endless. From 3-D printed shoe lasts, laser-cut leather for shoes and bags, technology is an essential part of our production processes. We also acquire customers on digital platforms, process all transactions digitally, and use artificial intelligence to increase lifetime customer spend.

What advice do you have for this year’s launching companies?

Be bold with your ideas and realistic with your cash plan. And, have a lot of fun.  

Startups and innovation play an important role in Edmonton’s post-pandemic recovery and long-term economic resiliency. In terms of revenue, job growth and economic impact, can you tell us about how Poppy Barley contributes to Edmonton’s economy?

Poppy Barley has grown 30-50% year-after-year. This growth fuels new hires and new space requirements. Edmonton is where Poppy Barley was born and it’s our home. It’s where our warehouse and office team are located and now our first flagship store at Southgate Mall.