About Thaely

In the bustling landscape of entrepreneurship, where giants like Nike and Puma dominate the sneaker industry, emerges a young Indian innovator named Ashay Bhave. With a heart fueled by environmental concern and a vision for a cleaner world, Ashay has not only created a groundbreaking brand but also a movement – Thaely.

Thaely, the brainchild of Ashay Bhave, is not just another shoe brand. It's a revolution. In a world grappling with plastic pollution, Thaely has taken an audacious stride towards redemption. Since its inception in 2017, this startup has not only repurposed tonnes of plastic waste but has also given birth to a sustainable and compassionate business model.

Ashay's journey began during his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) years when he saw the glaring issue of plastic waste through his mother's involvement in a local waste management facility. Witnessing plastic bags contributing to environmental degradation and insufficient recycling practices, Ashay's heart swelled with a desire to make a change.

The name 'Thaely' itself speaks volumes. Translating to plastic carry bags in Hindi, it encapsulates the brand's essence – transformation and purpose. Ashay's vision bloomed from a design project in college to a world-first reality, propelling the company's mission to address plastic waste while championing ethical practices and supporting marginalized communities.

At the core of Thaely's innovation lies ThaelyTex – a fabric forged from discarded plastic bags. By using heat and pressure, these bags are reincarnated as a sustainable leather alternative. Ashay's ingenious approach not only addresses plastic waste but also contributes to the livelihood of waste management workers. Thaely pays fair wages, provides education, and ensures well-being, in stark contrast to the exploitative practices prevalent in the industry.

Thaely's sneakers go beyond their eco-friendly design. They are an embodiment of responsible manufacturing and ethical principles. Crafted entirely from recycled materials, including plastic bags and bottles, these sneakers resonate with the eco-conscious consumer. The recycled rubber soles, the vegan glue, and detergents used in production underscore the brand's commitment to sustainable, cruelty-free practices.

Beyond the product, Thaely's social impact echoes loudly. The company's intervention in the lives of waste management workers, offering fair wages, education, nutritious meals, and improved working conditions, paints a picture of a brand deeply invested in positive change. Thaely's five-day work week, in contrast to the seven-day grind of traditional waste management facilities, showcases the brand's dedication to human welfare.

As Thaely's sneakers hit the market, their impact is undeniable. Each pair of Thaely shoes not only recycles 12 plastic bottles and 10 plastic bags but also sends a message of responsible consumerism. With a price tag of $99 (Rs 7000), Thaely's products are not just shoes; they are statements of conscious living.

Although relatively small in the billion-dollar sneaker industry, Thaely has grand ambitions. The company plans to expand its footprint, stepping onto the international stage by selling its products in European and American retail stores. By the end of next year, Ashay aims to recycle over 200,000 plastic bags through the sale of 25,000 pairs of shoes.

Thaely isn't just a footwear brand; it's a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of passion and innovation in tackling global challenges. Ashay Bhave's journey, from a college design project to a PETA-certified, socially conscious brand, stands as an inspiration for entrepreneurs worldwide. Thaely's success story isn't just about sneakers; it's about rewriting the narrative of business, fashion, and sustainability for a better tomorrow.