We are just reflecting on our year and discussing the New Years Resolution for Gandys...
A couple of years ago when Paul and I created Gandys aged 21 & 23, we had a simple vision to create something positive for others from our own negative circumstances.
We wanted to find something that would encompass our unique upbringing of travelling and volunteering around the world. The idea then came for flip flops which symbolizes all of our travels and the journey we have been on, in which since then everything from our logo to the designs of flip flops represents the different cultures and experiences of all of our travels. We have personally volunteered and assisted with funding of various projects in India & Sri Lanka places we previously spent travelling.
From day one, even when we were small with one of us sleeping on the sofa in our flat we have something back to help others and as we continue to grow our attitude will not change but it will mean we can do more.
When we started we didn't doubt our random idea of flip flops, we just knew if we focused & put in hard work, alongside a good attitude we would progress. If we ever have a bad day and get stressed out the other would pull the other threw, along with surrounding ourselves with positive people too in and out of work.
So since starting out of our bedroom 2 years ago with no experience in fashion, retail, footwear, logistics, distribution and many other things we have come along way not without many mistakes though, so thank you for all the patience, we have learnt a lot to say the least.
We have walked around Downing Street and met with our Prime minister David Cameron in our Gandys, managed to get our flip flops in the Worlds best department store Selfridges, we now even have them available on Sir Richard Bransons Necker Island, we went back to Sri Lanka the place where we lost everything in the tsunami. We are now launching this year into some of the best stores around the World. This year Gandys will be launched into over 20 new countries, we hope that our message and product will be recognised around the World.
Like most we will try to cut down on the beers (Unless at another amazing music festival this Summer) and chocolate after a great Christmas with our family, along with a better diet and more exercise this year we have a resolution that we will continue to work relentlessly for this year. We know a lot of people also look for a new job in the New Year as you don't want to go back into your mundane routine, this is something we won't be doing but if you fancy a fresh challenge come join us at Gandys and make part of our resolution yours too then say hello or go start something by yourself and again you can say hello if you want a point in the right direction with something (Not that we know everything but we know what mistakes we have made).
Other than the homes we have already supported, the ONE BIG RESOLUTION for us is opening our very own children's home in memory of our parents for the 10th year anniversary of the tsunami and others affected by natural disasters or simply left in a vulnerable situation! All of the help from our customers, media, retailers, staff, brand ambassadors, friends & family have helped us even closer to reaching our dreams and hope that you continue on this journey with us.
A resolution only has to start small but if you believe in it share it with the World and you can only hope they listen.
Rob & Paul
