RESULTS ANYTHING BUT FLAT

Of the many great successes at Roots in 2006, one stands out as the most phenomenal, and also probably the most gratifying. Made in the Roots factory in Toronto, the Roots Flats collection has far surpassed sales projections. Launched in July, the popularity of these leather bags shows no signs of subsiding. To meet the demand, the factory has had to add staff and is working at full capacity.

Each week, customers are buying literally thousands of Village Packs, Village Bags, Small and Large Venetian Bags, and Venetian Village Bags. The Flats are the biggest hit in the history of Roots leather bags, going way beyond even the success of last year’s Emily Bag.

Flat bags are the counter-trend to extra-large, bulky oversized handbags. They evolved from the need and desire of many women for hands-free accessibility while out shopping or running errands. Many women sport large work or gym totes during the day and on the weekends like a sleek flat bag such as the Village Pack, not only for style but for comfort and ease, too.

The Flats, which earned their name because they are literally flat, are extremely functional with pockets for cell phones, Blackberrys, iPods and other items.

The design is the result of a collaborative effort involving resident leather expert Karl Kowalewski, Diane Bald, Denyse Green, Susie Shiffman and overseen by Michael Budman.

The success of the Flats is the source of great satisfaction. Leather has a special place at Roots. It’s part of the soul of Roots. Original leather goods have been at the heart of the company since its inception in 1973 when Roots began by making shoes.

Today, 33 years later, judging by the formidable success of the Flats, it’s still an important part of what makes Roots…Roots.