The Magazine of the German Design Council
Martin Höfeler (Armedangels): Zwischen Purpose und Profit – wie geht Marke heute? Martin Höfeler | Foto: © Armedangels
Martin Höfeler (Armedangels)

Between Purpose & Profit – How Does a Brand Work Today?

In this episode of Design Perspectives, host Dr Saskia Diehl talks to Martin Höfeler, the founder and CEO of Armedangels, about managing a sustainable fashion business. Since its foundation in 2007, the company has aimed to conduct business in an ecologically and socially responsible way without compromising on design.

Chapter

(00:01:03) Company foundation and motivation  

(00:06:02) Sustainability in the fashion industry

(00:20:49) Sustainability in the fashion Brand philosophy

(00:37:01) Political dimension of the brand

>> The podcast is held in German.

Key Learnings

Desirability meets sustainability

A sustainable business model can be economically successful if sustainability is seen as an integral part of product design, rather than a limitation. Armedangels has succeeded in developing products that are both high-quality and attractive, while also meeting ecological and social standards.  

Trust comes from honesty 

Trust in a brand is not built through perfect staging, but through authentic communication. Armedangels openly discusses challenges, admits mistakes and continuously works on improvements — without resorting to greenwashing. This honesty strengthens credibility and fosters genuine connections with consumers.  

Change is possible – even on a large scale

Sustainability is not a privilege of young start-ups. Established companies can also actively drive change by reflecting on their practices, being willing to learn, and making consistent changes along the value chain. All that is required is a commitment to taking responsibility.  

The Podcast of the German Design Council

Design Perspectives Podcast

How can we use design as a lever for transformation and economic success? We talk about this with personalities from the fields of design, brand management and architecture. They give us insights into how transformation, sustainability and economic success can go hand in hand in a company. Interesting, informative, inspiring.

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