Blázek és Anni, a brand established in 1989 as a family business, has evolved into Khoani, adopting new directions after three decades. Known for its high-quality, genuine leather products, the brand now also offers a vegan leather collection and unique leather craft items. With cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and a focus on innovation, Khoani aims to captivate both domestic and international markets. The design philosophy of Khoani blends classic lines with innovative design solutions, focusing on harmony in colors, design elements, and materials used. All design and production processes are conducted in-house, ensuring meticulous attention to detail and the enduring quality of their handcrafted, premium bags and accessories.
Can you detail your specific role in the CIRCULOOS project?
In the CIRCULOOS project, KHOANI assumes the leadership and coordination role within the leather pilot. Our responsibilities encompass overseeing the production of leather goods and exploring opportunities for a circular transition within our operations. This includes implementing innovative solutions aimed at recovering leather waste surplus, thereby enhancing sustainability in our manufacturing processes.
What specific challenges or opportunities do you hope to address or explore through your involvement in the project?
The transition to circular production poses a significant challenge across all production sectors. Through our involvement in the CIRCULOOS project, KHOANI seeks to explore and potentially establish solutions that are applicable not only in our industry but also in other sectors. We aim to test and refine procedures that enhance our own circularity, setting a precedent for broader industry application.
How does your company’s experience with sustainability and digital transformation relate to your participation in the CIRCULOOS project?
KHOANI has long pursued alternatives to traditional raw materials to create more sustainable products, such as sourcing recycled supplies and auxiliary materials. Despite our focus on handcrafted products produced in small series, in 2022, we implemented an ERP system to support our operations. This blend of traditional craftsmanship and digital transformation underpins our approach in the CIRCULOOS project, where we aim to enhance our sustainability practices further.
How do you plan to engage in collaborative efforts to enhance the outcomes of the project?
KHOANI is committed to actively participating in knowledge-sharing through various platforms. We plan to leverage our memberships in the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, BNI, Business Flow 8, and Vegan Business Circle to communicate the project’s values and results. This will involve organizing and participating in workshops, brainstorming sessions, and technical discussions to foster a deeper understanding and wider adoption of circular practices.
How will your involvement in the project contribute to innovation in the broader manufacturing ecosystem?
Through its innovations, KHOANI aims to elevate the sustainability practices of our supply chain partners and shape their attitudes towards circular solutions. Our participation in the CIRCULOOS project not only contributes to the knowledge base but also promotes the adoption of circular practices within the broader manufacturing sector.
What challenges do you foresee in adopting circular manufacturing practices within your organization?
A significant challenge for KHOANI in embracing circular manufacturing is identifying and cultivating a target market of customers who prioritize social responsibility and environmental awareness. Without a concerted effort to educate consumers about the benefits of circular practices, the transition to circular production remains uncertain.
What is your future vision for the project?
For KHOANI, the CIRCULOOS project represents just the beginning of our journey towards zero-waste production. The project serves as a platform to educate our colleagues, influence the outlook of our partners, and learn effective ways to minimize our waste production. Our vision is to continue taking progressive steps towards full circularity.
How do you believe the Circular Economy will transform the manufacturing sector?
The Circular Economy promises to significantly reduce the wasteful use of scarce and expensive resources. In the leather industry, where rawhide is a byproduct of the food industry with limited recyclability post-production, it is crucial to promote circular planning. This includes introducing sharing solutions and expanding repair services, which can profoundly change how resources are utilized and valued in the sector.
