Producer Profile: Maggie’s Organics
by Pat Ellis
In this issue of the Producer’s Profile, we turn a spotlight on Maggie’s Organics and their very soft, cushy, sustainable socks. Whether you are looking for dress or casual, wellness or athletic, baby or merino wool hiking, you’ll find it at Maggie’s—all made with organic cotton and wool.
The company’s roots go back to 1992 when it was established by Bena Burda near Ann Arbor, Michigan. Burda set high aspirations for her company. She worked to establish a successful, sustainable business while protecting the planet and using production methods that respect and dignify each worker in the process.
Their cotton is sourced from approximately 1,900 small-scale, family-owned farms located in Tanzania. The cotton is ginned in a facility that only processes organic cotton.
Maggie’s Merino Wool is sourced from sheep raised by one hundred family-owned ranches in Argentina. They use the same criteria applied to organic dairy and meat and are subject to standards set by the US Organic Rule. The raw materials are spun into yarn that is certified by Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS).
Since 1992, every pair of Maggie’s socks has been knitted in the United States. The cotton and wool socks are knitted by three multi-generational, family-owned knitters in North Carolina.
In 2023, after 30 years as head of the company, Burda had lived up to those aspirations and then went a step further. She transferred ownership of her successful organization to its employees. Her charge to the new owners was simple: stay true to the Maggie’s Organics spirit, and remain committed to always trying to do the right thing, no matter how hard. Continuous improvement remains a core value, as they work with suppliers and producers to improve quality, the environment, and workers’ living conditions.
Next time you are at the store, take a look or, better yet, touch a pair. I did, and the combination of softness and comfort makes them winners in my closet!
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