Introduction to LIB: A New Era of Ethical Consumption
Borderless Japan, based in Fukuoka City, Japan, is delighted to announce the launch of its entirely new brand, LIB (pronounced as 'Ribu'), on July 15, 2025. This rebranding from the previously known Business Leather Factory signifies a commitment to enhancing daily ethical consumption by connecting consumers with socially responsible choices. The brand's ethos, encapsulated in the motto "Life Is Borderless - Live Beautifully," aims to make ethical choices more accessible in our everyday lives.
The Transition from Business Leather Factory to LIB
Established in 2014, the Business Leather Factory has successfully created over 1,000 jobs for women who are single mothers and individuals with disabilities in Bangladesh. Over the years, the company has served more than 1.7 million customers through 19 stores across Japan and an e-commerce platform. However, with the growing awareness among consumers about social responsibility and environmental considerations, LIB acknowledges the evolving values wherein the act of choosing also contributes to social good.
In light of this changing landscape, the decision to evolve into LIB reflects a fresh vision of connecting people with ethical living.
Concept Film Debut
To encapsulate the aspirations behind the brand, LIB has launched a concept film that conveys its core values and vision. This short video, slightly over a minute long, captures the essence of what LIB stands for and invites viewers to explore its message.
Core Principles of LIB
The name LIB is derived from its philosophy: “Life Is Borderless.” It emphasizes living beautifully by questioning whether our choices are comfortable rather than just correct. The brand believes in being honest about not just aesthetic beauty but also the integrity of how products are made and delivered to consumers.
1. Durability and Repairability
LIB is committed to designing products that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also built to last. Instead of seeing damage as a break point, LIB believes in repairable product design. The goal is to enable easy maintenance; for instance, they currently allow for simple slider repairs. Their approach aims to foster a culture of valuing longevity in products rather than the throwaway mentality.
2. Honesty Towards Makers
The brand prioritizes employing single mothers and people with disabilities at its own factories in Bangladesh and workshops in Burkina Faso. By providing these individuals with the opportunity to learn artisan skills and achieve independence, LIB contributes to the welfare of families and future generations while actively working towards social equity.
Beyond providing stable employment, LIB focuses on maintaining fair labor practices and creating a supportive workplace environment enhanced by healthcare services, childcare facilities, and free sanitary products for female artisans.
3. Protecting Nature
LIB recognizes the importance of sustainability across every aspect of its operations, from material selection to manufacturing and logistics. Using leather sourced as a byproduct of cattle from celebrations and everyday life minimizes waste. Additionally, LIB incorporates naturally derived shea butter into their leather care products, supporting local women’s employment.
4. Fostering Comfort
LIB believes that comfort extends beyond usability; it includes the emotional connection that comes from making positive choices for others. The brand is focused on enhancing consumer experiences through attentive customer service, ensuring that each interaction reflects its core values.
Commitment to Ethical Consumption
LIB is dedicated to expanding ethical consumption by reassessing and refining its practices continuously. The vision is to introduce beautiful, sustainable choices that promote a sense of well-being for both consumers and the communities served.
The brand also plans to expand its offerings beyond leather goods to include apparel and food products, integrating ethical practices into various aspects of daily life.
Business Leather Factory Products
Existing products under the Business Leather Factory brand will continue to be sold until stocks run out, ensuring no waste. These products uphold the same values and quality that LIB embodies.
New Official Website
Alongside the brand name change, LIB's official website has been revamped to encapsulate the artisans' stories and the background behind their craftsmanship. Visitors are encouraged to explore the newly featured