Korko, born out of a visionary partnership between Hape, a leading toy manufacturer, and Amorim, the world's largest cork producer, is a brand that redefines sustainability in play. Originating in 2020 and officially launched in 2021, Korko represents a fusion of Hape's expertise in wooden toys and Amorim's commitment to cork. United by a shared love for nature and a mission to make sustainability accessible, Korko introduces toys that are not just playthings but climate-conscious companions.
The journey to Korko's first product, a set of building blocks inspired by the classic Fröbel design, involved meticulous research, innovative design, and a deep commitment to quality. The blocks represent classic yet innovative toys, embodying the ethos of Korko. The brand's mission revolves around offering environmentally-friendly, carbon-neutral products at fair prices, making a sustainable lifestyle accessible to all.
Guided by the adorable owl, Coco, Korko's vision extends beyond play. It aims to educate children about the harmony between people, animals, and nature, fostering a climate-conscious lifestyle. Korko believes in providing high-quality toys that challenge children's cognitive abilities and contribute to skill development, ensuring that fun and learning go hand in hand.
Cork, the heart of Korko's toys, is sourced from Portuguese oak forests, capturing millions of tonnes of CO2 annually. Unlike traditional wooden toys, Korko's production process involves carefully harvesting cork bark, allowing trees to regenerate. This rapid renewable material ensures that Korko's toys are not only climate-neutral but also made in Europe, aligning with the brand's commitment to the environment and future generations.
Korko's cork toys are more than just sustainable; they are safe, lightweight, and feature rounded edges for child-friendly play. The unique texture of cork enhances sensory exploration, and its antibacterial, anti-static properties make Korko toys suitable even for those with allergies. The production process involves granulating cork bark, shaping it through a unique process, and using water-based dyes to create vibrant, low-maintenance toys.
In essence, Korko is not just assembling building blocks; it's creating a sustainable play experience, inviting children to learn, imagine, and play their way to a greener future.