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Patagonia’s cultural legacy
California-based outdoorwear company Patagonia was founded by mountaineering enthusiast Yvon Chouinard in 1973, offering high-quality, colourful garments that are designed for the great outdoors but also look great down the pub. As well as producing great clothes, Patagonia’s commitment to the environment and to company culture has set the standard for what an apparel brand can be, both inside and out.
Patagonia has built a rich internal culture by giving employees space to live its values: that of environmental stewardship and outdoor activity.
This includes:
· Providing staff with flexible hours so they can pursue other hobbies (a policy dubbed “Let My People Surf!” by founder Chouinard).
· Encouraging fitness at work through exercise areas dedicated to yoga and aerobics.
· Giving employees paid leave for “Environmental Internships” helping out a non-profit environmental cause of their choosing. In one case, Patagonia sent seven teams to help combat the Gulf Oil Spill in 2010.
Patagonia’s strong cultural and ethical code has underpinned its longevity as a business and created a unique legacy when it comes to company culture. It demonstrates how creating a purposeful workplace culture can benefit both your organisation and the world around you.