Meet Cora + Spink: Backpacks Built with Purpose, and Integrity

From a Spare Room to a Global Vision

Cora + Spink was founded by Tim Johnson during his undergraduate studies at the University of Birmingham. Originally launched as a response to the environmental impact of the fashion industry, the idea evolved into a business with purpose. The early prototypes were crafted from reclaimed materials in a spare bedroom in Worcestershire. Today, Cora + Spink operates from its own workshop in Delhi and a warehouse in Warwickshire, staying true to its small-batch, people-first ethos.

The Story Behind the Name

The brand is named after Tim’s great-great-great-aunt Cora, who defied expectations in 1817 by setting off alone on a solo Grand Tour of Europe. Shaped by instinct and curiosity rather than convention, her journey lives on as the brand's spiritual inspiration. Like Cora, the brand values exploration, purpose, and doing things differently.

Happiness, Designed

Cora + Spink makes backpacks that are made to last, both in function and meaning. Every product is designed to serve a real purpose, whether it’s for work commutes, city breaks, or cross-country adventures. They champion thoughtful design that balances simplicity with utility and sometimes a touch of whimsy.

But it’s not just about the end product. The company’s guiding principle is that everyone who touches a Cora + Spink backpack should be happy, from the skilled artisans crafting them in India to the customers carrying them around the world.

Ethics Woven Into Every Stitch

In a world that often celebrates fast fashion, Cora + Spink stands firm on doing things the right way. They work primarily with recycled cotton, salvaged canvas, and natural dyes sourced through local suppliers. Every backpack is built to last – not just in durability, but in values.

The brand ensures ethical wages, safe working environments, and transparent practices across its supply chain. Cora + Spink is not just a business; it is on a mission to prove that design-led, durable goods can be made responsibly and still spark joy.

Why We’re Backing Cora + Spink

We believe in backing brands that not only grow, but grow with purpose. Cora + Spink’s thoughtful approach to manufacturing, strong ethical standards, and design integrity make it a standout addition to our platform. In a market increasingly driven by conscious consumers, this brand is positioned for long-term resonance.

Whether you're drawn to the story, the style, or the sustainability, Cora + Spink has a way of winning hearts (and shoulders). And now, you can be part of their next chapter.