Go Grava Company Vlog: Eco-Friendly Manufacturing and Adventure Initiatives

Hey everyone, this is Aaron Johnson, founder of Go Grava. Welcome to our very first company vlog! Instead of a traditional newsletter, we thought we'd connect with you through this video format. The below writeup is just a general translation of the content on our video.

As we wrap up the fourth quarter of 2023, I hope you've been enjoying the South American content on our YouTube channel. Today, let's switch gears from adventure updates to delve into what Go Grava is all about and its core principles.

Principle 1: Accountability and Responsibility

In this vlog, we want to shed light on the two core principles that define Go Grava. First up, accountability and responsibility. Unlike most companies that focus on accountability within their organization, we are flipping the script. Go Grava is committed to being accountable not just to the company but to society and the environment at large.

Our initial focus is on finding eco-friendly ways to manufacture outdoor equipment. Research revealed that 95% of cycling, hiking, running, and outdoor gear undergoes an environmentally unfriendly manufacturing process, traveling thousands of miles across continents. As a solution, we started with the Go Grava backpack, sourced in Colombia and manufactured just 2,000 miles from the United States. This eco-friendly approach not only reduces environmental impact but also cuts transport costs by up to 22,000 miles.

While we can't make every product eco-friendly yet, our clothing primarily uses USA cotton, farmed locally and assembled responsibly in Honduras. We're proud to be one of the most eco-friendly companies in the cycling and outdoor market, with plans to expand our commitment by partnering with bicycle manufacturers in Colombia and Peru.

Impactful Vision: Bringing Jobs Back to the Americas

Our commitment to eco-friendly manufacturing aligns with a bigger vision – bringing manufacturing jobs back to the Americas. By sourcing raw materials and manufacturing closer to home, in places like Colombia, Mexico, Honduras, and Peru, we aim to reduce the need for extensive cross-continental transportation. This isn't just about making products more eco-friendly; it's about creating jobs and opportunities in the Americas, contributing to local economies and addressing economic factors tied to migration issues.

Principle 2: Helping People Become More Adventurous

The second principle at the core of Go Grava is about helping people become more adventurous. We believe that the outdoors can free your mind and improve your quality of life. While you see a lot of me in the content right now, our goal is to feature individuals who share our principles, creating even more impactful and relatable content.

Upcoming Event: Philadelphia Bicycle Expo 2024

Mark your calendars for March 16th, 2024, as Go Grava will be making a splash at the Philadelphia Bicycle Expo. We'll be showcasing our unique American-made products, highlighting our commitment to eco-friendly manufacturing and adventurous living. Attendees can look forward to exploring the craftsmanship and sustainability behind our gear, from backpacks sourced and manufactured in Colombia to bicycles redefining industry standards.

As a special treat, we're giving away one free Marino bicycle frame and fork to a lucky Expo attendee who signs up with Go Grava. Visit our booth, say hello, and explore the world of Go Grava. Learn more at PhillyBikeExpo.com . 

Conclusion: Thank You for Your Support

Before we wrap up, a sincere thank you to our supporters. Your backing helps us grow our ideas and make a real impact. Stay tuned for more exciting updates, and thank you for being part of our Go Grava journey. See you at the Philly Bike Expo on March 16th, and stay tuned for more content from South America, including a video about, F. Duarte, a 55-year-old family business in Bogotá, Colombia.

Goodbye for now, and thanks for being part of the Go Grava community!