Notabag was launched through a Kickstarter campaign about 10 years ago, with its first product being a combination of a tote bag and a backpack.
The German brand started as a side hustle for founder Adnan Alicusic but quickly turned into a full-time job. Its products are available worldwide including Australia and New Zealand and can be found in stores such as Merci in Paris, MoMa Design Store in NYC and San Francisco, and Nordstrom across the US.
“We used to have a distributor in Australia, who was great,” says head of sales, Aida Balart Nolla.
“However, when Covid hit he decided to focus on other brands. Maison&Objet has been very good as we have had quite a bit of interest again from Australia, so we are excited.”
Notabag launched a few new products at the show such as its latest collaboration with a designer from Barcelona, which will launch next month.
“We started collaborating with different designers a little while back and our first partnership was with Dutch designers, which launched in April this year. It was really successful so we will definitely be continuing this.
“The artists can be from anywhere in the world, whoever catches our eye really. If we like them and like their work, we approach them and they will develop designs for us or sometimes we work together. However, it’s still their style that we eventually use on our bags,” she adds.
“It is a great way to connect with another audience and the artisans can connect with our audience.”
Notabag also introduced a cross-body bag at Maison&Objet, which is made from recycled material. It is water resistant and you can wash the bag as well. It comes in cream, green and black, but more colours might be introduced later this year or early next year.
