Sustainability and design combined. That's SOHOTREE.
Who we are
The beginning
Leather is considered a noble, high-quality material worldwide, and few doubt this. However, from an ecological and ethical perspective, leather is disastrous, not only in its origins, but especially in its production.
Our Claim
We’ve always been drawn to the versatility of leather. However, both genuine leather and conventional synthetic leather have one major drawback: Neither is sustainable. From an ecological and ethical perspective, they’re not a viable solution for us.
Our goal was to create products made from leather alternatives that not only look good but are also better for the environment.
However, the search for high-quality and sustainable materials that combine aesthetics with design and offer an alternative to leather proved difficult. The existing products on the market didn’t meet our expectations of quality and cool design. They always represented compromises.
sustainability
This is a top priority for Sohotree. We are always looking to improve our ecological and social footprint.
What makes us different
- Innovative AppleFiber Material
- Swiss design & quality mindset
- Thoughtful functionality for everyday use
- Customisable & co-branded solutions for corporate gifting
Mission
With Sohotree, we are committed to running a forward-looking and responsible company.
With our products, we aim to push the boundaries. We create premium alternatives to leather in a way that reflects the world we live in today and in the future: beautiful, sustainable, and animal-free.
Vision
We have a clear vision: to replace leather with sustainable, non-animal materials.
Our high-quality apple leather products are establishing themselves from a cool niche product to a real alternative to leather goods, without compromising on quality and modern design.
SOHOTREE's founder
Lucas and Claudius Knecht, the two brothers from Zurich, founded Sohotree in 2020. Both combine traditional Swiss values such as quality and reliability with sustainability, individuality and beauty.
OUR VALUES
What Drives Us.
Sustainability with Substance
We focus on materials and processes that reduce environmental impact – without greenwashing.
Sustainability for us means responsibility, transparency and continuous improvement, not empty claims.
Design with Purpose
We believe great design is timeless, functional and intentional.
Every Sohotree product is designed to be used, loved and kept – not replaced.
Swiss Quality Mindset
Precision, reliability and attention to detail are at the heart of everything we do.
From material selection to finishing, we apply Swiss quality standards across our entire value chain.
Responsible Partnerships
We work closely with selected partners, suppliers and clients who share our commitment to quality and responsibility.
Long-term relationships matter more to us than short-term gains.
Meet the person behind SOHOTREE
Franziska Hoffmann
- 20 years of corporate experience. Then a new entrepreneurial chapter.
- 2 simple beliefs
- Why destroy the planet, when we can choose materials that grow back?
- Why wear ugly, if you could choose pretty
