Comments on: Toms Shoes – Philanthropy as a Business Model

By: Tony R

Tony R — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 03:25:39 +0000

For anyone who is interested in a similar concept/product I have one for you.

I live in the Philippines (I’m Australian) and it is one of the pooorest countries in Asia. 70% of the population live on less than $1 a day! (90 million people.)

One thing people don’t have here is opportun ities. They want to work but there is nothing for them to do… for various reasons, lack of education, skills, capital, language, Government etc.

They are good at hand crafts, so there are these bracelets they make from Swarovskin crystals, they are very nice and have to be hand made.

I can provide these bracelets for about $4 each wholesale. In Australia you could easily sell them for $15 to $20.

If you would like more information just send me an email tony_rotondo@hotmail.com

By: Steven H.

Steven H. — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 14:18:06 +0000

I want so much to provide for my family and the world at the same time. How can I become a social entrepreneur without being a total knock off of TOMS?? Very hard…

By: CHANCEvb

CHANCEvb — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 19:16:46 +0000

I went on a shoe drop with TOMS shoes in April. I’ll share a few things that add to how great this business model is.

First, the shoes stand out in a great way. If you wear TOMS, people are going to ask ‘why are you wearing loafers?’ or say ‘cute shoes.’ You’ll get a response at some point during the day everytime you wear these shoes. This is perfect for company because it creates walking advertising all over the world (and most people wearing TOMS are thrilled to share the story of how they have been able to help out a child in need).

Second, if you are interested in the giving part of TOMS business model, they’re taking applications 24/7. Log onto their website and fill one out. It is filled with very thought provoking questions so they can get a good feel of who they really want to take on each shoe drop. Best part of it for TOMS, the volunteers pay their own way. Now you have customers wearing your shoes, sharing your message, and delivering the shoes for you. They get to have an unbelievable experience and get more excited about sharing the story of TOMS shoes once they return.

Great job Blake and Alejo, this business model is unbelievable.