Viva Von-Routte

Gus Agra and Marina Tokarski: Von-Routte

Gus and Marina, tell us how you got started on your brand Von-Röutte?

We’ve always wanted to create a brand that actually meant something to a community. We had a clear purpose with the brand which was to celebrate cultural exchanges and translate that into physical products. Von-Röutte is a combination of different languages that together mean ‘on route’, like ‘on a journey’. We started with wallets and backpacks, soon after we had the idea of creating smart casual shoes that could be worn on different occasions, from weekends to work. The idea was always to create products that would encourage people to wear them in places and situations where they feel they are on a journey.

Is it difficult to be a local business competing on the big stage against huge global interests?

It’s indeed very hard. Our market is highly competitive and global brands are always reinventing themselves and innovating in product technology. Unfortunately, tiny brands like ours can’t spend too much money in R&D so we have to constantly think about how to reach and engage a certain niche.We can’t please everyone but we can certainly make something great and meaningful for our niche. 

What sets you apart?

The combination of our cultural and professional background gives us a very unique point of view on our designs. Also, our products are strong and robust with a purpose: we do believe in long-lasting shoes. We make sure the materials and construction are durable. We are also the only shoe store in Australia that offers one complimentary free cleaning on the shoes — we make sure people keep their sneakers for longer. 

You are part of the Bondi community. How has that been in this strange year of 2020?

We feel very lucky and grateful to be part of the Bondi community. Since we’ve opened our doors, we’ve felt welcome and supported. During these strange times, we absolutely felt and continued to feel all the support. And this goes way beyond customers returning to shop with us. We have people that have been stopping by to say hello, chat and keep us motivated moving forward. As a small young business, this means the world to us.

What's your message to people about buying locally?

Support business that means something to you. Most people don’t know but for every sale made by a small business, there is a celebration behind the scenes. 

Von-Röutte

Shop 7/157 Curlewis St

von-routte.com