Applause for Po-Zu

We're a little late to the party, but this news is worthy of note. Late last year, The View From The Pier highlighted Po-Zu, a company who were making waves with their coir-soled shoes.
Sven Segal, founder and CEO of Po-zu has walked away as Entrepreneur Of The Year at the PEA (People And Environment Achievement) Awards held last week. The judges were impressed with the way Sven had taken his frustrations with an industry that's highly toxic to the environment and blatantly ignorant to ethical concerns, and channeled them into a successful business. Po-zu has taken a series of positive steps that the footwear industry could incorporate quite easily, from glue-free sole attachment to the choice of sustainable materials, and ensuring that the workforce and suppliers receive decent conditions and a living wage.
It seems the only way is up for Sven and Po-Zu. They've sold over 50,000 pairs of shoes worldwide since the launch of the company in 2006, and you can now pick them up in John Lewis in the UK - a real boost to the visibility and reputation of the brand. (EDIT: not the case at the moment, sadly, but Sven hopes to have them back in store soon - see his comment below!)
Congratulations from everyone here at the Pier to Sven Segal - making giant strides towards a more sustainable, ethical footwear industry.