IMPACT REPORT 
2022
WE THINK AND ACT IN CYCLES.
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PREFACE
FREITAG
CIRCULAR F-CREW
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
APPENDIX
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«INTELLIGENT DESIGN 
FOR A CIRCULAR FUTURE»
«WE FOSTER A VALUES-BASED CULTURE
AND CIRCULARITY EXPERTISE»
«WE CREATE PRODUCTS
WITH THEIR END IN MIND»
«WE REDUCE OUR FOOTPRINT 
AND ENSURE A FAIR SUPPLY CHAIN»
«WE PROVIDE SERVICES TO
PROLONG AND CLOSE CYCLES»
«WE CONNECT TO INSPIRE
AND BE INSPIRED»
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PREFACE
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Dear readers
[GRI 2-22] Thinking and acting in cycles has been part of FREITAG for 
30 years. The switch from a linear, throwaway society to a circular 
economy in which resources are no longer wasted is an absolute pri-
ority. Now, for the second time, we share news of key progress made 
and the challenges we face in the FREITAG Impact Report. It provides 
insights into how we align our overall strategic goals, projects and 
daily work with our overarching purpose: «Intelligent design for a cir-
cular future».
The year 2022 was marked by political events worldwide and the en-
suing economic instability. On a human level, the war in Ukraine has 
had massive repercussions. We thus made a snap decision to use a 
substantial portion of the «FREITAG Nonprofit Fund» for charitable 
purposes in support of emergency humanitarian aid in Ukraine. On a 
business level, the rising costs caused by the war presented us with 
challenges along the entire value chain. Apart from this, it is becom-
ing increasingly difficult to source discarded truck tarps of suitable 
quality. At the same time, we were faced with the aftermath of the 
Corona pandemic and China’s zero-Covid policy, which was still caus-
ing supply shortages and, consequently, delivery delays in our supply 
chain. 
FREITAG has been aware of its corporate responsibility since its 
foundation and today unwaveringly focuses on striking a balance 
between people, planet and profitability. Internally, we have creat-
ed a code of conduct for the F-Crew with the «Culture Code» and 
launched several formats to strengthen the resilience and mental 
health of all FREITAG employees. In 2022, to make our supply chain 
even more transparent, we intensified the partnership-based dia-
logue with our long-standing producers and identified joint fields of 
action.
We were equally concerned with the importance and urgency of cli-
mate change and the need for substantial emissions reductions. 
FREITAG has therefore committed to company-wide emissions re-
ductions that are in line with the scientifically based 1.5°C targets. To 
this end, we have developed a roadmap and had our near-term emis-
sions target by 2030 verified in accordance with the net-zero stand-
ards defined by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). At prod-
uct and service level we have addressed the challenges of resource 
scarcity: Our innovative circular truck tarp project has resulted in two 
prototypes of the tarp of the future going on a first road test. With the 
CIRC-CASE smartphone protector, we have introduced our first circu-
lar product with an accompanying take-back system.
In 2022, FREITAG took the principle of self-organization a step fur-
ther. Previously, formal responsibility for managing the outermost cir-
cle of the company was on the shoulders of a single individual. This 
central position is now jointly handled by a collegial management 
collective. This entrepreneurial and strategically thinking collective 
has since developed a long-term corporate strategy that addresses 
and underpins the five ambitions outlined in the «FREITAG Circularity 
Roadmap», our sustainability strategy.
However, FREITAG cannot achieve these circular ambitions alone. To 
do so, we need partnerships that help us create recyclable materials 
and customers who value our products and extend their life by mak-
ing use of our circular services. And last but not least, we need the 
entire F-Crew to design and implement our products and services 
and to successfully anchor them in the market. Special thanks there-
fore go to all FREITAG employees, whose daily efforts make a valua-
ble contribution to a circular future.
We hope that the FREITAG Impact Report will provide inspiring in-
sights into our journey to becoming a circular company, offer starting 
points for exchange and collaboration, and encourage us to work to-
gether to realize our vision of a better, and more circular, world. 
Zurich, Autumn 2023 
 
Bigna Salzmann, Sustainability & Compliance Officer 
Anna Kerschbaumer, Jean-Gérôme Carrey, Nora Kato, Peter Alge 
and Tanita Bohny*, Company Leaders
PHOTO CREDIT: SIMON HABEGGER
*TANITA BOHNY WAS ON MATERNITY LEAVE WHEN THE IMPACT REPORT WAS COMPILED.

04
1993
In search of a functional, water-repellent 
and robust bag, brothers Daniel and Mark-
us Freitag develop the original version of 
the iconic F13 TOP CAT messenger bag 
from used truck tarp, discarded bicycle in-
ner tubes and car safety belts. 
2006
The FREITAG Flagship Store is erected next 
to the Hardbrücke in Zurich. The tower, 
built from 19 used freight containers, sym-
bolizes the company's philosophy.
1999
The first FREITAG Store (F-Store) is opened 
in Davos. In Zurich, FREITAG moves into the 
industrial hall on the Maag site.
2011
Following the demolition of the Maag hall, 
FREITAG initiates a commercial building 
for creative and production companies in 
Zurich-Oerlikon and moves into the so-
called «Nœrd» as prime tenant. 
2000
FREITAG opens up to the global market 
with an Online Store.
2014
With the F-ABRIC clothing line, FREITAG 
develops a first completely circular ma-
terial. The biodegradable textiles made 
of hemp, linen and modal are developed 
in-house from scratch. They are produced 
using minimal resources within a radius 
of 2,500 kilometers from headquarters in 
Zurich.
2003
The F13 TOP CAT model is included in the 
design collection of the «Museum of Mod-
ern Art» in New York (MoMA).
THINKING AND ACTING IN CYCLES SINCE 1993 
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG

05
2020
FREITAG gets political. During a municipal 
referendum, an installation at the FREITAG 
Flagship Store in Zurich underscores the 
brand’s strong affiliations with cycling and 
its call for more safe bike routes in Zurich.
2022
FREITAG tests the first prototypes of a cir-
cular, PVC?-free tarp so that in the future, 
truck tarps will not only enjoy a second life 
as FREITAG bags but an eternal one.
2015
The Manifesto is created on the occasion 
of the «FREITAG ad Absurdum» exhibition 
at the design museum «mudac» in Laus-
anne. As a plea for conscious, meaning-
ful production and consumption, and in 
a slightly adapted version, it remains the 
guideline by which FREITAG thinks and 
acts to this day. ≥ FREITAG.CH/MANIFESTO
2016
After exploring various types of organiza-
tion and with a growing desire for self-or-
ganization, FREITAG abolishes the tradi-
tional hierarchical model and introduces 
Holacracy as a new organizational form 
covering all 170 employees.
2019
With «Tarp on PET», FREITAG launches a 
new line of products that combines dis-
carded truck tarps with a lightweight fab-
ric made from 100% recycled PET bottles. 
In addition to the new material, FREITAG 
introduces an online exchange platform 
named S.W.A.P. (Shopping Without Any 
Payment), where bag owners can exchange 
their unique items within the community.
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG

«INTELLIGENT DESIGN
FOR A 
CIRCULAR FUTURE»
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CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

*THE FREITAG IMPACT REPORT REPORTS WITH REFERENCE TO SELECTED GRI? 
STANDARDS. FOR EVERY GRI STANDARD APPLIED, THE GRI REFERENCES ARE 
SHOWN IN SQUARE BRACKETS NEXT TO THE CORRESPONDING TEXT AREA.
 FREITAG GROUP
100%
100%
100%
100%
50%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
FREITAG
LAB. AG
FREITAG LAB. 
GERMANY GMBH
FREITAG LAB.
KOREA LTD.
FREITAG LAB. 
AUSTRIA GMBH
FREITAG LAB.
USA INC.
FREITAG LAB.
JAPAN KK
FREITAG LAB. IT-
ALY S.R.L.
FREITAG LAB.
UK LTD.
FREITAG LAB.
NETHERLANDS
B.V.
NOERD KANTINE
AG
FREITAG LAB. 
SHANGHAI
CO. LTD.
PURPOSE
FREITAG is a values-based company that focuses on people and the 
planet. «Intelligent design for a circular future» is our purpose, the 
sense and rationale behind our company. It is the foundation of our 
overarching strategic goals, our projects and, ultimately, our day-to-
day work.
BUSINESS MODEL
[GRI 2–6]* Our business model follows our purpose and takes its lead 
from the circular economy?:
≥	 Every year, FREITAG develops, produces and sells around 
500,000 bags and accessories made from used truck tarps, dis-
carded bicycle inner tubes, car safety belts and other recycled 
materials. Every product is unique?. With its current range of 
33 bags and 34 accessories, FREITAG generates over 95% of its 
sales.  
≥	 We also offer product-related services such as repair, take-back, 
customization and a complimentary bag exchange to keep prod-
ucts designed for durability in circulation even longer.  
≥	 Apart from this, FREITAG also sells F-ABRIC, its own 100% com-
postable clothing line. The continuation of the F-ABRIC line with-
in FREITAG was reviewed in 2022 due to the strong focus on clos-
ing the technical cycles in the core bag business.
STRUCTURE & GOVERNANCE 
PRIVATELY OWNED 
[GRI 2-1, 2-6] Founders Daniel and Markus Freitag are still the compa-
ny’s sole owners. Financial reporting is thus reserved exclusively for 
the attention of the Administrative Board and the owners. 
ROOTED IN ZURICH
The birthplace and headquarters of FREITAG lab. ag are in Zurich. At 
the end of 2022, 172 of 257 employees worldwide work at the Nœrd 
industrial complex in Zurich-Oerlikon. Of those, over 50 work in pro-
duction. [∆ CIRCULAR OPERATIONS – p.36]
INTERNATIONALLY ACTIVE 
The FREITAG Group comprises FREITAG lab. ag in Switzerland and its 
nine national companies in Germany, Austria, the USA, Japan, Italy, 
Korea, China, the UK and the Netherlands as well as the Nœrd Can-
teen, in which FREITAG lab. ag has a 50% stake. The term FREITAG, 
therefore, always refers to the FREITAG Group. 
≥	 In order to test future-proof circular business models in an un-
biased manner, F.L.O.P. (FREITAG Laboratory Of Progress) was 
founded in 2022 as an innovation lab within FREITAG lab. ag. It 
operates separately from business operations and reports di-
rectly to the Administrative Board. 
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CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
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FREITAG products are manufactured by a European production net-
work and distributed worldwide from headquarters. FREITAG oper-
ates a total of 29 stores in the following locations: six in Switzerland, 
five in Germany, four in Japan, four in South Korea, three in Thailand, 
two in the Netherlands and one each in Vienna, Milan, Shanghai, 
Taipei and Melbourne. 19 of the above-mentioned stores legally be-
long to the FREITAG Group, while ten are operated by local franchise 
partners under the name of «F-Store by». In addition, FREITAG has 
around 260 retail partners in 23 countries, and Online Stores based 
in Zurich-Oerlikon (global) and Shanghai.  ≥ FREITAG.CH/STORE-LOCATOR
SELF-ORGANIZED
FREITAG has a holacratic structure and an overarching corporate 
purpose.  [∆ CIRCULAR F-CREW – p.16] 
COLLECTIVE CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
[GRI 2-9, 2-13] Since 2022, FREITAG has been managed by a collec-
tive comprising the roles «Company Leader» and «Strategist». The 
Administrative Board selects «Company Leaders» every three years. 
According to the statutes, «Company Leaders» also automatically 
assume the role of «Strategist». Additional «Strategists» are cho-
sen every two years by the «Company Leaders». The role «Company 
Leader» is responsible for overall human resource and budget plan-
ning as well as project prioritization. The role «Strategist» is respon-
sible for long-term FREITAG strategy as well as the annual targets.
Operational management of the organization's impact on the econ-
omy, the environment, and people is distributed across the respec-
tive professional roles in accordance with the self-organized under-
standing.  [∆ CIRCULAR F-CREW - p.16] 
SUPREME CONTROLLING BODY  
[GRI 2-10, 11, 12, 14] The highest controlling body at FREITAG is the 
Administrative Board. The General Meeting of the Owners select 
the Administrative Board and the Chairperson of the Administrative 
Board. The Administrative Board identifies and monitors business 
risks, including those related to the identified ESG issues?. It also 
reviews the overarching corporate values and approves both the 
corporate strategy and the «Circularity Roadmap» (sustainability 
strategy). The Administrative Board is informed in writing about se-
lected topics as part of automated monthly reporting and at least 
once a year about progress made with implementing the «Circular-
ity Roadmap». It also authorizes publication of the Impact Report. 
Members of the Administrative Board occupy neither a «Company 
Leader» nor a «Strategist» role and are therefore not part of the 
company’s operational management.
 MARKET SHARE PER COUNTRY 
OTHERS
THAILAND
SWITZERLAND 
KOREA
GERMANY
ITALY
CHINA
JAPAN
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CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

09
01
02
03
05
04
06
07
09
12
14
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16
13
17
18
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08
10
MATERIALITY ASSESSMENT
[GRI 3-1] The materiality assessment is one of the main tools used 
in the reporting and strategic development of sustainability. We use 
it to identify and prioritize the issues most important to our compa-
ny and stakeholders, thus helping us to set the central points of our 
reporting. As part of the first FREITAG materiality analysis, we ad-
dressed the expectations of our stakeholders as well as the social, 
environmental and economic impacts along our supply chain?. 
[INTERNAL]
01	
FAIR PRODUCTION 
02	
CIRCULAR MATERIALS 
03	
CIRCULAR DESIGN 
04	
CARBON FOOTPRINT & WASTE 
05	
TRANSPARENCY
06	
RECYCLED MATERIALS 
07	
LIFE-EXTENDING SERVICES 
08	
BRAND PERFORMANCE 
09	
HEALTH & SAFETY 
10	
END-OF-LIFE SOLUTIONS
11	
ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE 
12	
COMPLIANCE
13	
DIVERSITY & INCLUSION 
14	
CIRCULAR EXPERTISE
15	
TRANSPORTATION 
16	
PACKAGING 
17	
ACCESS OVER OWNERSHIP
18	
PARTNERSHIPS
VERY MATERIAL
MATERIAL
RATHER MATERIAL
 [GRI 3-2] MATERIALITY MATRIX
[EXTERNAL]
≥	 Subsequently, we performed an internal prioritization. This is 
based on an internal online survey with eleven selected strategic 
and professional roles. The survey queried the materiality of the 
topics from the company's point of view, i.e. how important they 
are in terms of impact and image as a company with circular am-
bitions. 
≥	 Based on the stakeholder analysis, a benchmark for the industry, 
together with an analysis of established ESG? guides and industry 
studies, we identified 18 relevant topics for FREITAG and our 
industry.
≥	 The external prioritization is based on interviews with two 
external circular economy experts on the one hand, and publicly 
available industry documents and a competitor analysis on the 
other. 
≥	
[GRI 3-2] We have summarized the findings in the materiality 
matrix. 
≥	 The material (i.e. essential) topics identified were ultimately in-
corporated into the development of the «Circularity Roadmap».
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG

DIRECTION
CIRCULAR F-CREW: 
We foster a values-based culture and circularity expertise. 
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS: 
We create products with their end in mind. 
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS: 
We reduce our footprint and ensure a fair supply chain. 
CIRCULAR SERVICES: 
We provide services to prolong and close cycles. 
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY: 
We connect to inspire and be inspired.
09	 Health & safety 
13	 Diversity & inclusion
14	 Circular expertise
02	 Circular materials
03	 Circular design
06	 Recycled materials
01	 Fair production
04	 Carbon footprint & waste
15	 Transportation 
16	 Packaging
07	 Life-Extending services
10	 End-of-Life solutions
17	 Access over ownership
05	 Transparency
08	 Brand performance
11	 Economic performance
12	 Compliance
18	 Partnerships
MATERIAL TOPICS ADDRESSED
CIRCULARITY ROADMAP 
«We think and act in cycles». For 30 years, this has been the 
FREITAG corporate philosophy. Today, our main focus is on keeping 
products and materials in circulation for as long as possible and 
working out how we can leave the linear economy behind us once 
and for all. Life-extending measures we have already implemented, 
such as upcycling?, one-time-recycling? or repair, do not satisfy this 
goal. Instead, we are attempting to close our material cycles and be-
come a fully circular? organization – and actively shaping and driving 
the circular economy in a pioneering role.
In 2021, we developed our sustainability strategy: the «FREITAG 
Circularity Roadmap». Based on our purpose, our corporate values, 
and a materiality assessment, it will help us set the right priorities 
and identify the levers needed to have the greatest impact in our 
progress toward the circular economy. In 2022, the «Circularity 
Roadmap» was also embedded in the corporate strategy and is 
thus gaining further importance.
The «Circularity Roadmap» consists of five directions that describe 
our circular ambitions in different areas of the company. Together, 
they form the guidelines within which FREITAG plans to become a 
circular organization by 2030. This FREITAG Impact Report is struc-
tured according to these five main directions.
Since we want to measure and evaluate our progress, we have de-
veloped long-term targets and performance indicators until 2030 for 
each of the five directions. To get closer to these long-term targets 
step by step, we formulate concrete measures and projects on 
an annual basis in terms of sub-goals. The most important annual 
achievements and challenges are transparently shared in the Impact 
Report (FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS), as are the measures already identi-
fied for the coming year (OUTLOOK).
The «Circularity Roadmap» should also be understood as a dynam-
ic instrument. It will be further developed and updated on an ongo-
ing basis. We consider this necessary because global development, 
political parameters, and material and technological innovation in-
fluence the measures taken to achieve our targets. We believe per-
fection should not be the ultimate goal on this challenging journey 
towards a circular organization. Instead, we are committed to pro-
gress, experimentation and transparency.
  CIRCULARITY ROADMAP AND MATERIAL TOPICS
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CIRCULAR ECONOMY
A circular economy is a comprehensive approach that considers the 
entire material and product cycle: from the extraction of raw mate-
rials, intelligent design, sustainable production and extended ser-
vice life through to multiple recycling?. The circular economy aims 
to replace the linear production processes that are still widespread. 
In a linear economic system, raw materials are depleted, and prod-
ucts are manufactured, sold, consumed and discarded. In a circular 
economy, on the other hand, products and materials are kept in cir-
culation. So, compared with a linear economic system, significantly 
fewer raw materials are used and less waste produced. The circular 
economy distinguishes between biological and technical cycles. In 
the former, materials of biological or organic origin should be uti-
lized materially or fermented as far as possible after use and thus 
flow back into nature as nutrients. In the technical cycle, the useful 
life of products is increased by allowing them to be shared, reused, 
repaired, and reprocessed in ways that maintain their quality over 
multiple life cycles. To preserve material integrity as far as possible, 
products are only sent for recycling when they can no longer be used. 
But recycling is an energy-intensive process, involves the occasional 
use of additives and diminishes the quality of the original material. 
For these reasons, extending the product life is generally preferable 
to recycling.
FREITAG CYCLES
We have already closed the biological cycle with our compostable 
F-ABRIC clothing line. In the technical cycle, within which we oper-
ate our core business, we have not yet reached that stage: We up-
cycle our primary material, used truck tarps, to give it a second life. 
Through circular services such as exchange and repairs, we try to 
make this life as long as possible. But at the end of its life cycle, even 
a FREITAG product is (for the time being with the exception of F385 
CIRC-CASE) destined to become waste.
CYCLES
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG

>800
POINTS: «CIRCULAR GLOBE LEADER» 
 TARGET 2030
 AMBITION 
 CIRCULAR GLOBE INDEX 2022
 CIRCULAR MATURITY BY CATEGORY
CIRCULARITY MATURITY
The maturity approach used by the «Circular Globe» label provides 
an overarching and overall assessment of where we stand as regards 
our quest for circularity. «Circular Globe» evaluates the activities of 
companies moving toward a circular economy. FREITAG was the first 
company to participate in a pilot assessment in 2021. We now review 
our circularity maturity annually to plan, implement and measure our 
progress.
According to the final report of the 2022 assessment, FREITAG is 
well on its way towards becoming a circular organization. With 600 
out of 1000 points, we now achieve the rating «Advanced» and thus 
the second of three possible maturity levels. Since the last review, 
FREITAG has improved the conditions for a transformation into a 
circular organization along clear strategic priorities and has been 
able to implement relevant measures: The assessment continues to 
locate our strengths in the areas of business model (75%, previous 
year: 70%), leadership (75%, previous year: 65%) and now also in the 
area of implementation (77%, previous year: 55%). Despite the in-
crease, our greatest potential lies in the dialogue with stakeholders 
(40%, previous year: 20%) and in the areas of monitoring and meas-
urement (35%, previous year: 25%). 
Based on these results, we created the role of «Sustainability Data 
Analyst» in 2022 and filled it at the end of the year [∆ CIRCULAR F-CREW – 
p.17] as well as implemented the first stakeholder analysis and com-
municated the findings internally. [∆ APPENDIX – p.70]
MONITORING &
MEASUREMENT
55%
60%
55%
77%
60%
60%
75%
40%
75%
35%
CE ANALYSIS
PLANNING
IMPLEMENTATION
LEADERSHIP
COLLABORATION
IMPROVEMENT & COMMUNICATION
SYSTEMIC APPROACH
STAKEHOLDERS
BUSINESS MODEL
600/1000
POINTS: «ADVANCED»
2021: 505
WE ARE A FULLY CIRCULAR ORGANIZATION.
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13
The «Circular Globe Model» developed by the Swiss Association 
for Quality and Management Systems (SQS) and Quality Austria is 
based on a maturity approach. With 239 evaluation criteria, it guar-
antees a systematic means of measuring progress towards a circular 
economy. The model is based on the current state of science as well 
as proven practical experience in the field of circular economy and 
draws on recognized international standards and reference works. 
Accordingly, the assessment model also considers the climate tar-
gets defined by the Paris Agreement and the «UN Sustainable De-
velopment Goals». Circular Globe likewise incorporates current and 
anticipated regulatory requirements.  
≥ CIRCULAR-GLOBE.COM/ASSESMENT-MODEL
THE CIRCULAR GLOBE MODEL
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
In 2015, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly listed its 17 
«UN Sustainable Development Goals» (SDGs). Together with their 
169 targets, they form the core of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable 
Development. They take into account the economic, social and en-
vironmental dimensions of sustainable development in a balanced 
way and, for the first time, bring together poverty reduction and sus-
tainable development in a single agenda. Businesses play a central 
role in implementing the 17 SDGs. For this reason, we have aligned 
the 2030 «FREITAG Circularity Roadmap» with the UN’s Sustaina-
ble Development Goals. In the context of our value creation, we see 
the greatest potential for making a relevant contribution to positive 
change in the following six SDGs. ≥ SDGS.UN.ORG/GOALS [∆ APPENDIX – p.73]
FREITAG places an emphasis on communicating 
circularity knowledge, both internally through the 
steady expansion of circularity expertise and exter-
nally through values-based communication initia-
tives, factory tours, public appearances and pres-
entations. [∆ CIRCULAR F-CREW – p.18, CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
– p.60–62]
FREITAG promotes participation and leadership in 
its own company regardless of gender and deliber-
ately offers flexible working conditions that guaran-
tee compatibility between professional and private 
life. [∆ CIRCULAR F-CREW – p.20–21]
FREITAG takes care to ensure that resources are 
used efficiently at its own production at the Nœrd 
headquarters and pursues an ambitious sustainabil-
ity strategy to reduce its own footprint. FREITAG of-
fers numerous options to promote the physical and 
mental well-being of its employees and has a safety 
concept to protect them from avoidable accidents. 
To create fair and safe working conditions along the 
entire supply chain, FREITAG has a multi-stage pro-
cess in its procurement to increase transparency. 
[∆ CIRCULAR OPERATIONS – p.36–45, CIRCULAR F-CREW – p.22]
FREITAG conducts transparent reports on its ma-
terial consumption and pursues a business model 
and product development strategy compliant with 
the principles of the circular economy. Waste is 
avoided through upcycling, recycling and optimized 
production processes, and the life cycles of prod-
ucts are extended through circular services such as 
repair. Ensuring tarp quality and developing circu-
lar materials addresses other aspects of this goal. 
[∆ CIRCULAR PRODUCTS – p.26–31, CIRCULAR OPERATIONS – p.41–
43, CIRCULAR SERVICES – p.49–50]
FREITAG has its greenhouse gas emissions sur-
veyed annually in compliance with the «Green-
house Gas Protocol». The company has committed 
to emissions reductions in line with scientifically 
based 1.5°C and net-zero targets and has drawn up 
a roadmap to achieve them. 
[∆ CIRCULAR OPERATIONS – p.38–41]
FREITAG engages in cross-industry collaboration 
through numerous initiatives, memberships and 
partnerships designed to promote the issues of 
sustainability and the circular economy. [∆ CIRCULAR
COMMUNITY – p.59–61]
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG

43
40
41
42
45
48
49
50
51
52
54
55
56
57
53
44
42
43
45
48
49
50
51
52
54
55
56
57
53
44
40
41
1B
1B
1C
1C
1D
1D
1E
1E
2E
2E
3E
3E
4E
4E
5E
5E
6E
6E
2D
2D
3D
3D
4D
4D
5D
5D
6D
6D
2C
2C
3C
3C
4C
4C
5C
5C
6C
6C
2B
2B 
3B 
3B 
4B 
4B 
5B 
5B 
6B 
6B 
1A
1A
2A
2A
3A
3A
4A
4A
5A
5A
6A
6A
1
2
3
4
5
6
1
6
5
4
3
2
6D
6D
6C
6C
6B
6B 
6
6
5D
5D
5C
5C
5B 
5B 
5
5
4D
4D
4C
4C
4B
4B
4
4
3D
3D
3C
3C
3B
3B 
3
3
2D
2D
2C
2C
2B
2B
2
2
1B
1B
1C
1C
1D
1D
1
1
CIRCULAR 
F-CREW
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CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
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CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

FREITAG sees its purpose as fostering 
«Intelligent design for a circular future». 
To help us achieve that, we nurture a 
values-based culture and promote circular 
economy-related know-how and compe-
tency at every level in our organization.
[GRI 3-3] FREITAG is a company that prioritizes 
striking a balance between people, the planet 
and economic success and follows a common 
purpose. This meaningful corporate objective 
shows us the way forward. Our culture and ex-
pertise allow us to go that way. 
We trust in the individual strengths of our em-
ployees, promote self-responsibility and build on 
respectful and inclusive cooperation. These are 
the core values of our company's culture: they 
not only lead to more productive collaboration 
but also to an environment that promotes exper-
tise and mutual appreciation.
SATISFIED AND 
EMPOWERED F-CREW
WE FOSTER A VALUES-BASED CULTURE 
AND CIRCULARITY EXPERTISE.
 TARGET 2030
 AMBITION
 METRICS 2022
  INTRO
9
19
INTERNAL CIRCULARITY- 
RELATED EVENTS
EMPLOYEES WITH
EXTERNAL TRAINING
INTRO
2021:  
9
2021:  
20
*DATA USED FOR 2021 ARE FROM 2020, AS THE SURVEY IS 
ONLY CONDUCTED EVERY 2-3 YEARS. 
EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION
4.7 / 7
2021:  
4.9 / 7*
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CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

16
[GRI 2-9] For six years, FREITAG has pursued an approach based on the principles of 
self-organization. Our self-organizing corporate form simplifies decision-making pro-
cesses and encourages both transparency and innovation by sharing responsibility 
across the company rather than handing it to a classic management team, as is the case 
with conventional organizational forms. However, this does not mean that self-organi-
zation has no hierarchies. On the contrary: Self-organization is hierarchical but consist-
ently determined by professional roles.
The holacratic approach we use calls for organization into specific circles with clearly 
related roles that are continuously adapted to changing needs. The management of a 
circle is split between two roles: While the so-called «Lead Link» carries the informa-
tion and the overall strategy into the circle, the «Rep Link» is responsible for carrying 
the circle's needs to the outside of the circle. While the «Lead Link» is determined on a 
long-term basis by the next higher circle, the «Rep Link» is elected for a limited time by 
the circle members.
In addition to defined responsibilities, the circles and roles each have a purpose based 
on our company's overarching purpose. Our purpose «Intelligent design for a circular 
future» is therefore not only the principal ideal but also the paramount form. As to be 
expected, then, there is hardly any role at FREITAG whose area of expertise does not in-
clude the topic of circular economy and sustainability. The self-organizing structure also 
helps us attract the right kind of talent: Individuals who do not see the classic career 
ladder as an end in itself, but rather identify with the values of a company and a sus-
tainable economy. 
As a logical consequence of our understanding of participation, we promote entrepre-
neurial thinking and acting and give our employees a share in the company's success. 
As soon as EBIT exceeds a specific threshold, FREITAG employees receive a pre-defined 
portion in the form of profit-sharing. The profit-sharing bonus was paid out in 2022.
PEOPLE & 
ORGANISATIONAL 
CULTURE
SUSTAINABILITY 
& CIRCULARITY
GENERAL 
COMPANY
CIRCLE
4YCU - FOR 
YOUNG CONSCIOUS 
URBANITES
SMOOTH 
OPERATION
FINANCE 
& LEGAL
IT & 
APPS
 A VISUAL REPRESENTATION OF THE FREITAG STRUCTURES WITH CIRCLES, SUB-CIRCLES AND ROLES
SELF-ORGANIZATION
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG

FACTS & 
HIGHLIGHTS 2022
COLLECTIVE LEADERSHIP
In 2022, FREITAG continued to push forward with self-organization: 
After the founders had gradually relinquished their operational roles 
in previous years, the central «Lead Link» role? of the outermost 
company circle (General Company Circle) was replaced by a collec-
tive. In 2022, FREITAG was led for the first time by the roles «Com-
pany Leader» and «Strategist». [∆ FREITAG – p.7] Within the context of 
self-organization, leadership is perceived as an aid to self-leader-
ship.
An open election? was held for the first time at the end of 2021 to fill 
the two newly created roles of «Company Leader» and «Strategist». 
All FREITAG employees had the opportunity to nominate themselves 
as candidates for the positions. Apart from the primary requirement 
of entrepreneurial and strategical thinking and action, the compo-
sition of the collective also took into account factors that would en-
sure the fairest possible representation of the company (e.g. with re-
gard to diversity, specialist areas, corporate values). This resulted in 
a collective of five «Company Leader» who, according to governance, 
are automatically «Strategist», together with six other «Strategist». 
In the course of 2022, the «Company Leader» selected two addition-
al individuals for the role of «Strategist», thus providing optimal cov-
erage of all specialist areas.
2022, the collective has developed a long-term corporate strategy 
that is even more consistently focused on the circular economy. The 
five directions and ambitions formulated in the «Circularity Road­
map» are reflected in this overarching strategy and thus gain further 
importance. 
*THE ROLE FIT IS CONDUCTED ANNUALLY FOR ALL FREITAG EMPLOYEES WITH A 
PERMANENT POSITION. APPRENTICES, WHO ARE OVERSEEN BY THEIR ASSIGNED 
SUPERVISOR IN THE CIRCLE, ARE NOT INCLUDED. THE SELF-IMAGE (ROLE 
OWNER) AND THE EXTERNAL IMAGE (LEAD LINK AND PEERS) ARE OBTAINED BY 
MEANS OF AN EVALUATION CATALOG. IN A MEETING WITH THE LEAD LINK, 
AGREEMENTS AND DISCREPANCIES ARE DISCUSSED AND NEXT STEPS FOR THE 
PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE EMPLOYEE ARE DEFINED. 
IF THE ROLE FIT IS INSUFFICIENT, BINDING MEASURES ARE DEFINED WITHIN 
A SPECIFIED PERIOD OF TIME.
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
CULTURE CODE
In spring 2022, the jointly developed «FREITAG Culture Code» was 
introduced: The code of conduct is binding and, in six principles, sets 
out how we, the F-Crew (i.e. all FREITAG employees), should treat 
each other. The «Culture Code» aims to foster an inclusive relation-
ship space characterized by trust, appreciation and respect. It also 
establishes an open, constructive feedback culture that enables all 
employees to grow individually and as a team. 
To ensure that the «Culture Code» is always with us wherever we go, 
it was distributed to the entire F-Crew as a handy booklet. Consid­
eration of the six principles were included in the employee evalua-
tion* («Role Fit»). This cultural component of the evaluation is given 
the same weighting as the conventional performance area. 
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CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
FEF - CIRCULAR GET TOGETHER
For two years, the «FREITAG Economic Forum» (FEF), which brings 
all employees together for a week every year, could not take place in 
its usual form. As a result, the importance of the FEF 2022 as an in-
terpersonal function was enormous. Finally, the F-Crew was able to 
physically exchange ideas again, celebrate the joint achievements of 
the past years and get in the mood for the upcoming projects togeth-
er. In terms of content, everything revolved around the topic of Circu-
larity: from technical keynote speeches and insights into product de-
velopment to specialist workshops. This enabled us to communicate 
the «Circularity Roadmap» to all employees and to provide tangible 
examples of how everyone can play their part in fulfilling our circular 
ambitions.
Our aspiration to make conscious use of resources was also reflect-
ed in the catering at the FEF. Among other things, food for the breaks 
was provided by a local anti-foodwaste company, which rescues the 
previous day’s baked goods from the garbage. In the Nœrd canteen, 
the dishes offered to FEF participants were exclusively vegetarian.
CIRCULARITY EXPERTISE 
Since 2021, the «Sustainability & Circularity» circle has formed the 
competence center for circular economy at FREITAG, is responsible 
for the implementation of the «Circularity Roadmap» and is staffed 
with key roles such as «Circular Technologist» and «Sustainability & 
Compliance Officer». In 2022, the role of «Sustainability Data Spe-
cialist» was newly created, which is dedicated to the collection and 
processing of all sustainability key figures. For the organizational 
anchoring of relevant interfaces of the new circle, the role of «Sus-
tainability & Circularity Ambassador» was also created in spring 
2022. The role was filled by seven employees from different depart-
ments, who have since contributed to awareness-raising and knowl-
edge-sharing regarding circularity in their circles as an interface.
In order to transfer the knowledge from the «Sustainability & Circu-
larity» circle to the entire company, in addition to the circularity fo-
cus at FEF 2022, four topic-specific roundtables were also held: one 
to communicate the stakeholder analysis, one to communicate the 
materiality analysis, one on the «FREITAG Roadmap to Net-Zero», 
and one on the theoretical discussion of the topic of CO2 capture and 
storage. In addition to imparting knowledge, this format allows us to 
share experiences across circles, address needs, and address chal-
lenges transparently.
Furthermore, we regularly shared inputs on sustainability and the 
circular economy at our company-wide bimonthly meetings, the so-
called «F-Crew Meetings». A «Sustainability & Circularity» intranet 
site also brings together all relevant information and makes it easily 
accessible to all employees worldwide at any time.
MYCLIMATE COMPANY CHALLENGE
In 2022, six FREITAG apprentices organized themselves in a spe-
cially created project group to take part in the «myclimate Company 
Challenge». The Challenge gives apprentices the chance to act inde-
pendently and implement ideas and projects for more sustainability 
and climate protection in their company. In the process, they are able 
to learn valuable skills while making a concrete contribution to the 
company. 
The project was called «Bits and Pieces», and the apprentices set 
themselves the goal of establishing a buyer network at FREITAG 
headquarters in Zurich for fabrics, accessories and various other 
items that can no longer be used, for example, due to production sur-
plus or quality defects. On the one hand, they set up an internal sales 
forum. On the other, they identified suitable external buyers such as 
schools, non-profit organizations and a well-known second-hand 
store. Their solutions were finally made available to the entire 
F-Crew on an intranet site. With their project, the FREITAG appren­
tices won the Energy and Climate Workshop 2022 public award.
PHOTO CREDIT: JESPER BORG
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CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

PHOTO CREDIT: SIMON HABEGGER
*[GRI 2-20] AT FREITAG, THE MONEYPENNY ROLE IS RESPONSIBLE FOR CREATING A CONSISTENT AND FAIR PAY MODEL AND DISTRIBUTING ANY PAY ADJUSTMENTS 
(JOINTLY WITH COMPANY LEADER AND GROUP ACCOUNTANT). THE PROCESS OF ANNUAL SALARY ADJUSTMENTS IS NEEDS-BASED, I.E. THE EMPLOYEES ARE INVOLVED BY 
THE RESPECTIVE LEAD LINK. THE EMPLOYEE NEEDS COLLECTED IN THIS WAY ARE SUBMITTED TO THE MONEYPENNY ROLE, WHICH REVIEWS THE CLAIMS AND DISTRIBUTES 
APPROPRIATE WAGE AMOUNTS TO THE CIRCLES. THE ADMINISTRATIVE BOARD, AS THE HIGHEST CONTROLLING BODY, IS NOT DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN DISTRIBUTION, BUT 
ONLY DETERMINES THE TOTAL PAYROLL ACROSS ALL CIRCLES. THERE ARE NO OUTSIDE CONSULTANTS IN THIS PROCESS.
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION
In 2022, an external expert carried out an anonymous company-wide, 
international employee satisfaction survey for the second time. The 
survey aims to systematically record the work situation of all em-
ployees as they experience it subjectively and to use results to derive 
concrete measures for action in the interests of the F-Crew. It is car-
ried out every two to three years. 
68% of the F-Crew participated in the survey (n=159), so the per-
centage response rate was the same as in the first survey in 2020. 
However, overall satisfaction has decreased compared with 2020: 
Overall, employees’ job satisfaction rating stands at 4.7 on a 7-point 
scale (2020: 4.9). 59% of FREITAG employees say they are satisfied 
to very satisfied with their work situation (2020: 67%). Satisfaction is 
most strongly influenced by the following three factors: the working 
atmosphere, the opportunity to use skills and knowledge, and pay. 
The first two aspects are generally rated positively, while there is po-
tential for improvement in the case of wages*. All three aspects de-
teriorated slightly compared with the previous year. Satisfaction with 
regard to the infrastructure of the working environment and internal 
communication at FREITAG have also deteriorated slightly since the 
last survey. The most positively rated features are flexible working 
hours and learning opportunities.
This deterioration in the subjective satisfaction of our employees 
runs contrary to our ambition. Accordingly, the primary need for ac-
tion was identified as the work climate, the opportunity to use skills 
and knowledge, and pay. Specific measures for 2023 have been de-
veloped for improvements in the first two areas. [∆ CIRCULAR F-CREW – 
p.23] In order to relieve the pressure of inflation, it was decided to 
increase all F-Crew wages as of January 2023. The same amount, 
calculated on the basis of 100% employment, was awarded to all 
FREITAG employees, regardless of their roles. 
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CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

DISSATISFIED - RATHER DISSATISFIED (1–3)
23%
NEUTRAL (4–6)
16%
SATISFIED - VERY SATISFIED (5–7)
59%
4.7 / 7
 EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION 
n = 159
NO INDICATION
2%
DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
[GRI 3-3] The FREITAG employee regulations – the «F-Rules» – not 
only set out the rights and duties but also social and ethical princi-
ples that apply to employees around the world. These include, among 
others, protection against discrimination, equality and equal pay, 
and reconciliation of work and family life (work-life balance).
In 2022, the «F-Rules» were revised with the aim of making them 
easier to understand and thus more inclusive. For employees in 
Switzerland, major adjustments were also made to the content due 
to the high proportion of office work and changes in the legal frame-
work. This included, for instance, new remote working arrangements, 
which give employees a degree of flexibility in arranging their work 
location within the framework of operational requirements and the 
needs of the circles. In this way, FREITAG aims to improve recon-
ciliation of professional requirements and private needs. In 2022, 
according to an internal survey with 122 participants, the F-Crew 
worked an average 26% of workdays in their home offices (previous 
year 83%). In the fall of 2022, the changes were communicated to the 
F-Crew, providing space for dialogue. A slightly adapted version of 
the «F-Rules» finally came into force on 1.1.2023.
The «Chang(c)emaker Diversity & Inclusion» role promotes diversity 
and inclusion, creates visibility and is accountable for an inclusive 
work environment that supports diverse perspectives and values the 
contributions of all employees regardless of gender, origin, or sexu-
al orientation. As a result, at the end of 2022, a non-binary selection 
for gender was developed specifically in the central employee data 
system, among other things. To raise awareness, regular posts were 
published on the intranet, for example on internal gender distribu-
tion by role or a current LGBTQ+ study. 
[GRI 405-1,2] The F-Crew has an even distribution between the sex-
es*, with 50.2% women and 49.8% men. With regard to equal op-
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
In addition to satisfaction, there was also a slight deterioration in the 
health of the F-Crew: Employees rate both their physical (4.0; 2020: 
4.3) and mental well-being (3.7; 2020: 4.0) as significantly worse 
than in 2020, but still the majority as good to very good (physical 
75%; 2020: 89% respectively mental 61%; 2020: 74%). Accordingly, 
this topic was also prioritized in 2022 and concrete measures were 
implemented. [∆ CIRCULAR F-CREW – p.22]
*THE NON-BINARY GENDER OPTION WAS NOT INTRODUCED UNTIL THE END OF 
DECEMBER 2022 AND CONSEQUENTLY NO NON-BINARY DATA HAS YET BEEN RE-
CORDED FOR THE YEAR 2022. 
BASIC AND FURTHER TRAINING
[GRI 404-2] FREITAG promotes the professional basic and advanced 
training of all employees. If further training is deemed necessary, the 
company will cover 100% of the fees and any training and exam time 
on weekdays counts as paid work time. If the further training is sup-
plementary, FREITAG will pay 75% of the examination fee and up to 
75% of the training costs. In addition, employees may take up to five 
working days per calendar year as training days. In 2022, 19 employ-
ees received support for their further training. Apart from providing 
support for external training, we also offer regular further training 
modules free of charge through our internal «F-Academy». These 
take place during working hours and are open to all employees. In 
2022, for example, we implemented F-Academy courses on non-vio-
lent communication, leadership and resilience.
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CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

>45 YEARS
12.5%
 [GRI 405-1] EMPLOYEES BY AGE AND GENDER, HIGHEST WAGE LEVEL* BY GENDER
16–45 YEARS
87.5%
EMPLOYEES BY AGE
EMPLOYEES BY GENDER**
EMPLOYEES AT TOP OF SALARY SCALE
MEN
49.8%
MEN
53.8%
WOMEN
50.2%
WOMEN
46.2%
*SINCE A HOLACRATIC ORGANIZATION HAS NO MANAGEMENT IN THE CLASSICAL SENSE, THE HIGHEST WAGE LEVEL (TOP OF SALARY SCALE) IS USED AS A
REFERENCE VALUE.
**THE NON-BINARY GENDER OPTION WAS NOT INTRODUCED UNTIL THE END OF DECEMBER 2022 AND CONSEQUENTLY NO NON-BINARY DATA HAS YET BEEN RE-
CORDED FOR THE YEAR 2022.
portunities, the highest wage level* with 46.2% women and 53.8% 
men presents a positive picture. With regard to gender, the roles are 
distribut­ed fairly throughout the corporate leadership («Company 
Leader»: 3 women, 2 men, «Strategists»: 6 women, 7 men) as well as 
in circle management («Lead Link»: 11 women, 12 men, «Rep Link»: 
13 women, 11 men). In 2022, an equal pay analysis was again car-
ried out by an independent body in accordance with methodology 
approved by the Swiss Federal Statistical Office. This showed that 
FREITAG pays equal wages for equal work, regardless of gender, in 
Switzerland, and thus also at the significant operations site at its 
headquarters. 
In the interests of an inclusive working environment, the cost of Ger-
man courses at various external institutions for non-German-speak-
ing employees were covered in 2022. Wherever possible, FREITAG 
also considers integration aspects when filling positions: For tem-
porary jobs we cooperate with jobshop, a contact point for teenagers 
and young adults who need help finding a job. As regards our nine 
apprenticeships positions, we work closely with ESPAS. The organi­
zation specializes in individual work integration and trains young 
people for one year before they start an apprenticeship in the com-
pany. Since FREITAG itself has had apprenticeship dropouts in recent 
years, we consciously decided in 2022 to offer apprenticeship con-
tinuations that would give young people who were unable or unwill-
ing to continue their first apprenticeship a second chance. FREITAG 
2022 also participated for the first time in the city of Zurich’s LIFT 
youth project, thus enabling a young person to gain an initial expe-
rience of an internship with a view to simplifying the subsequent 
search for an apprenticeship.
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
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40

PHOTO CREDIT: JOËL TETTAMANTI
HEALTH AND OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY
[GRI 403-6] In view of the findings of the employee satisfaction survey 
and long-term absences associated with increased workload in cer-
tain circles, we introduced selective measures in 2022 to support the 
F-Crew in the mindful use of their own resources and in the recogni-
tion of mental overload. 
A workshop involving external health promotion experts (Lifetime 
Health) and FREITAG representatives from all circles was held in 
June 2022 to determine the current situation. In October 2022, the 
entire F-Crew was sensitized with a keynote speech focusing on the 
topic of mental and physical well-being. In November, we organized 
a workshop focusing on resilience and stress management for all 
roles with a leadership component. This workshop was implemented 
by SYBEK, our external social counseling partner, which is available 
to the entire F-Crew at any time for free and anonymous counseling, 
even in the event of difficult personal situations.  ≥ SYBEK.CH 
Existing physical health offerings continued in 2022. FREITAG sup-
ported the sports groups (soccer, hockey and fitness training) 
launched over the past few years by employees themselves. Only the 
yoga offer was temporarily discontinued owing to lack of demand. 
As in previous years, we took part in the 2022 Bike2Work Challenge 
to promote exercise in our daily work routine. As always, employ-
ees were able to enjoy healthy, regional and seasonal lunches in 
the Nœrd canteen at the headquarters in Zurich, which consciously 
serves only vegetarian dishes one day a week. FREITAG employees 
receive a 50% discount, which goes up to 75% for employees who do 
not have the possibility to work from home. ≥ NOERDKANTINE.CH 
To boost occupational safety, the safety mission statement and 
emergency concept for the Nœrd 2022 headquarters were revised, 
and the relevant signage in the building reviewed and optimized. In 
order to guarantee an immediate reaction in the event of accidents, 
the six appointed company paramedics attended emergency cours-
es, and a first-aid standby service was introduced during work-
ing hours. In addition, personal protective equipment (e.g. goggles, 
shoes, gloves) for each role was newly defined and indicated by signs 
in the corresponding work areas.
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
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40

To promote employee satisfaction by increasing their resilience, all employees will be offered 
personality coaching at the company’s expense. The newly created role of «Culture Enabler» 
also addresses the communication and further development of the «Culture Code» and its as-
sociated empowerment of the F-Crew. 
In terms of organizational structure, we have set ourselves the goal of making it less complex 
and creating a greater sense of orientation. In addition to governance adjustments to simplify 
the holacratic circle and role structures, there are plans for accompanying workshops on topics 
such as leadership and consent decision-making.
To promote the physical health of employees in production, we introduce a sports program dur-
ing working hours designed to counteract the negative effects of repetitive physical work. For 
office workers, the workstations and meeting rooms at FREITAG headquarters will be adapted 
to meet the new needs of hybrid and more flexible working structures.
01
OUTLOOK 2023
02
03
In 2023, the Sustainability & Circularity circle will focus on the internal transfer of circular 
know-how as a means of boosting our circular expertise within the company. In addition, we 
plan to increase the significance of the central role of the «Material Technologist».
04
PLANNED MEASURES
At the «FREITAG Economic Forum (FEF)» in 
2022, we will dedicate an entire day to the 
subject of circularity. This will encourage 
the internal transfer of relevant expertise 
and exchange. We also plan to hold at least 
four more internal roundtables on sustain-
ability and circularity and involve more ex-
perts in the «Sustainability & Circularity» 
circle.
To strengthen our shared understanding 
of culture, we plan to introduce a «Cul-
ture Code» that maps our interaction and 
cooperation principles. Moreover, the 
F-Academy focuses on the concept of 
leadership in a self-organizing body as 
well as the culture of feedback and trust. 
Currently pending are revisions of the 
«F-Rules», as we call our employee reg-
ulations, the salary and further training 
regulations, and another employee sat-
isfaction survey. These measures are 
designed to generate a continuous im-
provement in working conditions for the 
F-Crew.
01
ACHIEVEMENT OF TARGETS 
IN 2022
02
03
PLANNED MEASURES
STATUS
MEASURES IMPLEMENTED
see FACTS & 
HIGHLIGHTS 2022:
∆ FEF – CIRCULAR GET
  TOGETHER p.18
∆ CIRCULARITY EXPERTISE 	
  p.18
see FACTS & 
HIGHLIGHTS 2022:
∆ CULTURE CODE p.17
∆ BASIC AND FURTHER
	 TRAINING p.20
see FACTS & 
HIGHLIGHTS 2022:
∆ DIVERSITY & INCLUSION    
  p.20
∆ EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION
	 p.19
	
TARGET 
ACHIEVED
TARGET 
ACHIEVED
TARGET 
PARTIALLY
ACHIEVED
  ACHIEVEMENT OF TARGETS IN 2022 + OUTLOOK 2023
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
23
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

43
40
41
42
45
48
49
50
51
52
54
55
56
57
53
44
42
43
45
48
49
50
51
52
54
55
56
57
53
44
40
41
A
B
C
D
AB
BB
DD
CD
C11
B10
B9
B8
B7
B6
B5
B4
B3
B2
B1
D1
D2
D3
D4
D5
D6
D7
D8
D9
D10
D11
C10
C9
C8
C7
C6
C5
C4
C3
C2
C1
A1
A2
A3
A4
A5
A6
A7
A8
A9
A10
A11
A12
AA
AB
CD
CC
00
00
00
00
AA
AB
CD
CC
00
00
AB
BB
DD
CD
00
00
CIRCULAR 
PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
24
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

By taking a circular approach to material 
development and product design, FREITAG 
wants to show and pioneer ways from a 
linear to a circular economy. To achieve this, 
we develop our products with their end of 
life in mind, in line with our values based on 
the principles of the circular economy.
[GRI 3-3] The upcycling of used materials, the focus 
on quality and durability, and the unique character of 
each individual product have characterized FREITAG 
for 30 years. We aspire to ensure that FREITAG prod-
ucts are not only theoretically durable but also that 
our customers enjoy using them for years to come. 
The product design and choice of materials play a 
crucial role in the transition to a circular economy 
and can reduce the product’s environmental foot-
print by up to 80%. Our product development strat-
egy is therefore based on the use of recycled and, 
wherever possible, recyclable? materials. We also 
adhere to circular design principles that enable du-
rability and repairability but also consider the end of 
the product’s life cycle. 
To ensure that products live their potential life cycle 
to the full, we also develop appropriate circular ser-
vices. [∆ CIRCULAR SERVICES – p.47] 
In addition, we work continuously to minimize mate-
rial waste: for example, when cutting tarps to size in 
the production process. [∆ CIRCULAR OPERATIONS – p.36]
99%
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
WE CREATE PRODUCTS WITH 
THEIR END IN MIND.
  TARGET 2030
  AMBITION
  METRICS 2022 [MATERIAL INPUT]
UPCYCLING (USED TRUCK TARP)
75.8%
 2021: 88.7%
RECYCLED
3.5%
 2021: 1.9%
NEW
11.6%
 2021: 7.7%
B-STOCK
9.0%
 2021: 1.7%
  INTRO
INTRO
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
25
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

26
To meet our circular ambitions for future products, our product develop-
ment strategy is guided by the following four strategic points:
PHOTO CREDIT: ROLAND TÄNNLER
DESIGN FOR DURABILITY
We give our products a long life by selecting robust materials and a time-
less design that increases the product’s emotional value the older it gets.
DESIGN FOR DISASSEMBLY
We rely on modular design and reversible material connection, which 
simplify repairs, replacement, remanufacturing and recycling of the 
product. We enhance this by keeping the number of material groups to 
a minimum. 
CHOOSE PURPOSEFUL MATERIALS
We select our materials in line with strict criteria. We rely on circular, re-
cycled materials produced using environment-friendly methods, avoiding 
any that do not comply with our Restricted Substance List (RSL)?.
VALUE THE MATERIALS
We develop products that can be produced with minimal material waste, 
emphasize the unique? character of products made from used truck tarps 
and declare the materials used on the products. 
PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG

27
NATURAL FIBERS
For the F-ABRIC clothing line, we developed fabrics from two bast 
fibers (hemp and linen), and modal, a bio-based fiber obtained from 
reconstituted beech tree cellulose. All these raw materials are grown 
in Europe by producers whose priorities include preserving soil qual-
ity, efficient water use, and avoiding the use of pesticides. We also 
minimize the use of chemicals during further processing and dyeing. 
F-ABRIC textiles come without rivets, zips and synthetic constitu-
ents and are therefore 100% biodegradable. Our garments become 
breeding grounds for new raw materials, and we thus close the bio-
logical cycle.  ≥ FREITAG.CH/FABRIC
USED TRUCK TARPS
Truck tarps are robust and long-lasting, and even when used are still 
a good raw material for our kind of bags. The processing that is part of 
the FREITAG upcycling approach is designed to extend the life of this 
durable material. After spending an average of six years on the road, 
the tarp assumes a new role and survives for many more years as a 
bag. External calculations have shown that using old truck tarps in-
stead of new material reduces our CO2 emissions by 22%. Since 2022, 
apart from the actual tarps, we have also been collecting the reflec-
tors glued onto them and using them selectively in bag production. 
To ensure the safety of our products, we test incoming truck tarps 
for unwanted constituents and remove any tarps that are unsuitable. 
Before transforming the tested tarps into bags, we also wash and dis-
infect them. This way, we can be sure we also eliminate bacteria and 
mold. [∆ CIRCULAR PRODUCTS – p.30, CIRCULAR OPERATIONS – p.36]
DISCARDED PET BOTTLES
Fabrics made of outsourced, recycled PET?, which we use either to 
line some of our bags or as the main material for other models, are 
dyed using spinneret technology. In this process, the yarn is dyed 
during the actual spinning rather than as a finished fabric. The 
­method is much more environment-friendly than traditional dyeing 
because it requires 75% less water, 30-40% less energy and 90% 
fewer chemicals. FREITAG is aware that materials made from recy-
cled PET bottles can only be an interim solution as long as the PET 
is sourced from its functional closed cycle. Accordingly, we only use 
them where no circular alternatives are available and are actively 
searching for better solutions. ≥ FREITAG.CH/TARPONPET
MATERIALS
WORN SKI BOOTS
To make our smartphone protective cases recyclable despite the 
rapidly changing sizes of device from one generation to the next, 
FREITAG uses recycled thermoplastic polyurethane (R-TPU) made 
from worn-out ski boots. This mono-material is recyclable up to sev-
en times. It’s flexible, robust and shock-absorbent, and therefore 
ideal for making custom-fit smartphone sleeves from it repeated-
ly. What is special about the new R-TPU material, in addition to the 
take-back system, is the very short distances in the supply chain: 
the entire production process from raw material procurement to 
preparation and processing to the product takes place in Switzer-
land within a radius of 150 km from Zurich.
B-STOCK 
B-stock goods are materials or articles that do not make it into usu-
al distribution channels for any of several reasons. They may not 
meet the quality standards for their intended purpose, have minor 
visual defects or have been used as display items. Provided this does 
not compromise their quality for the uses we have in mind, we give 
B-stock goods from other industries a new life. Currently, we are 
turning B-stock goods from bicycle inner tubes, seat belts and air-
bags into new products.
NEW MATERIALS
We only use new materials when we have not yet found a recycled 
alternative that meets our quality requirements. These include zips, 
buckles and snap fasteners, which need to be particularly resilient.
PHOTO CREDIT: ROLAND TÄNNLER
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG

FACTS & 
HIGHLIGHTS 2022
F385 CIRC-CASE
After a development phase with other partners lasting several years, 
the first circular FREITAG product reached market maturity in 2022: 
F385 CIRC-CASE is a smartphone sleeve made from recycled ski 
boots that can be recycled multiple times at its end of life. The pro-
tective R-TPU sleeve is combined with a custom card holder made 
from recycled truck tarp that slides into the case and can be easily 
taken apart again.
For the production of our circular smartphone case, worn-out ski 
boots are collected in Davos, taken apart and separated from their 
buckles and other plastic parts. The coarsely shredded plastic is 
then analyzed, sorted by color, and extruded? into granulate so that it 
can eventually be cast onto the body of a current iPhone® model. If 
the CIRC-CASE no longer fits the new smartphone, it can be returned 
to FREITAG and converted into new CIRC-CASEs. 
[∆ CIRCULAR SERVICES – p.52] ≥ FREITAG.CH/CIRCULAR-PHONE-CASE
 ANNA KERSCHBAUMER, PRODUCT DRIVER AT FREITAG
«AT THE END OF THE PRODUCT 
LIFE CYCLE, THE R-TPU FROM 
DISCARDED SKI BOOTS CAN BE 
USED AGAIN AND AGAIN FOR THE 
PRODUCTION OF NEW CIRC-CASES.»
FIRST PROTOTYPES FOR 
CIRCULAR TARPS 
We want to ensure that our bags are both recycled and recyclable in 
the future and that after their long life do not end up in the garbage. 
In 2020, with that in mind, we initiated the development of a circu-
lar truck tarp. By the nature of its job, a tarp designed for life on the 
road needs to fulfill certain technical requirements. But a circular 
tarp also has to meet EPEA Cradle to Cradle®? requirements as far 
as possible. Our goal is to close the cycle for this material, which 
is so important for FREITAG, and to replace the conventional truck 
tarp made of PVC as the main material. FREITAG manages the pro-
ject, conducts research and brings relevant and important partners 
throughout the tarp industry together. [∆ CIRCULAR COMMUNITY – p.59]
Like a conventional tarp, the new recyclable version will probably 
consist of a robust fabric with a water- and dirt-repellent coating. 
What precisely these two components will consist of is the all-im-
portant question. First and foremost, the new tarp will have to with-
stand the rigors of being on the road. After that, it must be possible 
to revert it to its basic consituents and reuse them to make some-
thing new. As the project unfolded, various development approaches 
with different partners and different combinations of fabrics and 
coatings emerged. 
In 2022, in what represented a significant milestone, two of these 
development approaches each resulted in a prototype. The two pro-
totypes were printed and mounted on a small truck to check how 
well the materials and the printing hold up as truck tarps when ex-
posed to normal usage and weather conditions. 
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
PHOTO CREDIT: OLIVER NANZIG
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
28
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

PHOTO CREDITS: ELIAS BÖTTICHER
PROTOTYPE T001
The tarp prototype made of polypropylene (PP) has been out on its 
road test since June 2022. In the first prototype, both the fabric and 
coating are made of PP. It can therefore be recycled at the end of its 
life cycle without the need for costly separation of the two compo-
nents. During the research stage, the attention of the project team 
was drawn to a mono-material that had already been developed by a 
Dutch company, Rivertex. The Rivertex developers joined the project 
team and agreed to have the circularity of their product tested by the 
EPEA in line with Product Circularity Passport® requirements. The 
result (66%) was very encouraging, and the only reason it was not 
higher is that the tarp is currently produced from new, in other words 
non-recycled material.
PROTOTYPE T002
In December 2022, another tarp prototype was sent out on the road. 
The second prototype is made of TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) 
with a fabric made from PES (polyester). The TPU coating materi-
al has already been tested by the EPEA's circularity experts and 
passed the materials health test. Since it still may be several years 
before PES and TPU compounds can be recycled at a high level, the 
project team is working in parallel on a new type of tarp structure.
The two other development approaches are dedicated to a bio-based 
solution and a mono-material made of PET. It is impossible to pre-
dict which of the four sub-projects and which materials will result 
in the first commercial, circular truck tarp. What is clear, however, is 
that it will take another five years or so for the used circular tarps to 
return from the streets and for us to cut them up to make the first 
FREITAG bags from them. ≥ FREITAG.CH/CIRCULARTARP
 ANNA BLATTERT, CIRCULAR TECHNOLOGIST AT FREITAG
«SINCE THIS IS A INNOVATION 
PROJECT, THE OUTCOME IS OPEN. 
WHILE MARKET ACCESS IS BETTER 
ASSURED FOR ONE DEVELOPMENT 
APPROACH, THE OTHER HAS THE 
ADVANTAGE OF HIGHER CIRCULARITY 
IN ITS FAVOR.»
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
DEVELOPMENT OF A MONO- 
MATERIAL PRODUCT
In 2022, FREITAG continued to work with external partners on the de-
velopment of a mono-material product. After all, if all the components 
in a product are made of the same material, it can be recycled as a 
whole at the end without the need for laborious separation of individual 
materials from one another. The stringent requirements regarding func-
tionality and circularity posed some challenges for the project team in 
sourcing. In the end, we decided to take material development into our 
own hands. At the end of 2022, after two years of development, the pro-
ject was in the final test phase for the first circular, tarp-free FREITAG 
backpack.  ≥ FREITAG.CH/MONOPA6 
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
29
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

PHOTO CREDIT: ELIAS BÖTTICHER
NEW PRODUCTS FROM 
PRODUCTION WASTE
Material waste from other industries is the basis of the FREITAG 
business model and therefore a valuable resource. In 2022, two 
product developments focused on the use of intelligent design to 
reduce FREITAG production waste in various ways. 
SLINGBAG F675 DIXON
All good things deserve a second life. And those good things include 
the reflective contour markings that make trucks glow in the dark 
and increase road safety on the highway at night. The reflectors are 
attached to the discarded truck tarp and usually cut away when the 
tarps are dismantled. But FREITAG has been looking at ways of giv-
ing the reflective strips a second life on bags. The reflectors not only 
look fantastic on the bags but also perform the useful function of 
increasing visibility in the dark.
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
PHOTO CREDIT: PHILIP FROWEIN
We used around 6,000 recycled truck tarp reflectors for the first time 
on the F675 DIXON, a limited FREITAG DIY product, in June 2022. At 
the three FREITAG Yourself Stations in Kyoto, Bangkok and Zurich, 
customers were able to put together their own bags from recycled 
PET fabric, used truck tarps, discarded car safety belts and recycled 
reflectors. Following its success as a FREITAG Yourself product, the 
reflective slingbag will be added to our permanent product portfolio 
(never out of stock) in a slightly adapted form in 2023. 
 ≥ FREITAG.CH/REFLECTIVE-BAG
THE REAL RIP-OFF: FREITAG REVERSED 
In life before FREITAG, the inside of a truck tarp is the boring side. 
It is not printed, mostly monochrome and has hardly virtually no 
­patina?. In addition, the safety belts are welded on this side, leaving 
the tarp with frayed strips after our manual disassembly process. 
[∆ CIRCULAR OPERATIONS – p.36] In November 2022, FREITAG reversed 
the logic and turned the inside out for two bags (F52-X MIAMI VICE, 
F201-X PETE ) and two accessories (F07-X CHUCK, F08-X DAN), and 
put the characterful traces of torn-off canvas straps in the spotlight.
For these inside-out products, we spent months collecting pieces 
of tarp that looked particularly attractive on the inside, but either 
wouldn’t be used for production because of the belt tears and holes, 
or would remain in the tarp store for the time being due to surplus of 
plain tarps. In this way, over five tonnes of discarded tarp were given 
a second life and production waste reduced. ≥ FREITAG.CH/RIP-OFF
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
30
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

UPCYCLING* 
(USED TRUCK TARP)
NEW**
RECYCLED***
NATURAL FIBERS
B-STOCK****
2020
2021
2022
408,521
268,424
365,005
 MATERIAL COMPOSITION, IN YEAR-ON-YEAR COMPARISON [KG]
500,000
400,000
300,000
200,000
100,000
*USABLE MATERIAL (EXCL. WASTE, 
QUALITY PROBLEMS, ETC.)
**NEW GOODS SUCH AS BUCKLES, 
ZIPPERS, ETC. BUT ALSO SHARE 
OF NEW GOODS IN RECYCLED MA-
TERIALS
***RECYCLED CONTENT IN RECY-
CLED MATERIALS (EXCL. TARP)
****AIRBAGS, BICYCLE INNER 
TUBES AND SEAT BELTS
291,668
(77.85%)
238,074
(88.69%)
276,714
(75.81%)
63,517
(16.95%)
15,272
(4.0 %)
20,756
(7.73%)
38,064
(9.32 %)
5,137
(1.92%)
4,458
(1.66%)
32,941
(9.02%)
12,923
(3.54%)
42,427
(11.62%)
336
(0.09 %)
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
MATERIAL INPUT 2022 
[GRI 301-1,2] In 2022, material consumption increased by 36.0% year-
on-year to 365,005 kg as overall production volumes rose once again 
following the Corona pandemic. Most (75.8%, previous year 88.7%) of 
the material processed still comes from used truck tarps (upcycling). 
While inventories were reduced in 2021, more accessories and lining 
materials were purchased again in 2022. Accordingly, the share of 
B-stock material was 9.0% (previous year: 1.7%), due in particular to 
the purchase of four times more car safety belts. The share of new 
items, such as buckles, straps and zippers, as well as new shares 
in materials, likewise increased and stood at 11.6% (previous year: 
7.7%). The recycled share, for instance in the case of accessories that 
are not made solely from virgin material, was 3.5% (previous year: 
1.9%). The newly launched, recyclable CIRC-CASE has so far made 
only a minimal impact in this category because of its low weight and 
comparatively small share of products sold. F-ABRIC textiles are 
produced in batches and, as in the previous year, no fabrics from 
natural fibers were produced in 2022.  [∆ CIRCULAR PRODUCTS – p.28]
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
31
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

32
The design principles we use for FREITAG products also apply to 
FREITAG Stores. As evidenced by our Zurich Flagship Store. The ba-
sic idea behind a FREITAG bag is to give used materials a new life, to 
reuse them for a different purpose. In other words, to recontextualize 
them. Through the use of rusty, decommissioned freight containers 
as retail space, these core values assume a life beyond the product. 
That is how the container tower has become symbolic of the brand. 
PHOTO CREDIT: PHILIP FROWEIN
PHOTO CREDIT: ROLAND TÄNNLER
PHOTO CREDIT: ADISORN RUANGSIRIDECHA
F-STORE DESIGN
But apart from that, we focus on timeless design and modular, dura-
ble systems in all the FREITAG Stores: 
We do not use unnecessary materials such as covers or finishes 
with varnish and paint. The only exception here are accents in our 
CI colors: industrial green and signal yellow. We use modular shelv-
ing systems, designed in house and produced in Switzerland. They 
are made of durable, hard-wearing materials like recyclable plastics 
(combined with cardboard) or steel. The parts can be configured as 
individual shelving units, assembled, dismantled and reused. And 
because they are so space-saving, they can be delivered worldwide. 
≥ FREITAG.CH/STORE-LOCATOR
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG

Together with partner companies, we continue the development of a circular truck tarp. Follow-
ing experience with the first prototypes, we are putting an entire test fleet on the road for this 
purpose. Parallel to this, discussions on suitable circular business models and processes are 
being intensified.
The product portfolio will be expanded to include a family of new products with a repair-friend-
ly design, while existing products will be optimized and refreshed to reduce waste and increase 
their uniqueness. 
We are defining the underlying goals and principles of a circular material development at 
­FREITAG: We are pinpointing key performance indicators for the circularity of our products, 
drawing up concrete «Circular Design Guidelines» to help people better understand the 
concept of circularity, and developing a circular material library based on this. This was al-
ready planned as a focus point for 2022, but had to be postponed due to a lack of personnel 
­resources.
01
OUTLOOK 2023
02
03
PLANNED MEASURES
Together, we and our partners are press-
ing ahead with our joint pioneering project 
towards a circular tarp. We are sending 
our first circular tarp prototype out onto 
the road. 
We have expanded our product portfolio 
to include the recycled and circular CIRC-
CASE smartphone sleeve. We are also 
working on new products made from cir-
cular mono-materials, which are making 
significant steps toward market readi-
ness.
We are defining the underlying goals and 
principles of a circular material develop-
ment at FREITAG: We are pinpointing key 
performance indicators for the circularity 
of our products, drawing up concrete «Cir-
cular Design Guidelines» to help people 
better understand the concept of circu-
larity, and developing a circular material 
library based on this.
01
02
03
PLANNED MEASURES
STATUS
MEASURES IMPLEMENTED
see FACTS &
HIGHLIGHTS 2022: 
∆	FIRST PROTOTYPES FOR 	
	 CIRCULAR TARPS p.28
see FACTS &
HIGHLIGHTS 2022:
∆ F385 CIRC-CASE p.28
∆ DEVELOPMENT OF A MONO-	
	 MATERIAL PRODUCT p.29
–
TARGET 
ACHIEVED
TARGET 
ACHIEVED
TARGET
NOT 
ACHIEVED
ACHIEVEMENT OF TARGETS 
IN 2022
  ACHIEVEMENT OF TARGETS IN 2022 + OUTLOOK 2023
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
33
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

43
40
41
42
45
48
49
50
51
52
54
55
56
57
53
44
42
43
45
48
49
50
51
52
54
55
56
57
53
44
40
41
3
2
1
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.12
2.12
2.1
2.2
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
2.8
2.9
2.10
2.11
3,11
3,10
3,9
3,8
3,7
3,6
3,5
3,4
3,3
3,2
3,1
1.11
1.10
1.7
1.8
1
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
3
2.9
3,2
2.8
2.10
CIRCULAR 
OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
34
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

FREITAG aims to strike a balance between 
ecological and social responsibility and 
economic success all the way along its 
supply chain. That's why we want to 
substantially reduce our footprint and make 
the supply chain even fairer. 
[GRI 3-3] FREITAG produces where it makes the 
most sense ecologically and economically and 
where safe, healthy and fair working conditions 
are guaranteed. We have made a conscious deci-
sion to maintain our headquarters in Zurich and 
maintain long-standing partnerships on an equal 
footing with our mainly European producers and 
are in constant dialogue to increase transparen-
cy throughout the supply chain.
WE REDUCE OUR FOOTPRINT 
AND ENSURE A FAIR SUPPLY CHAIN.
  TARGET 2030 
  METRICS 2022 
t CO 2 eq TOTAL
  AMBITION
  INTRO
APPLIED 
«CODE OF CONDUCT»
AGENTS AND
SUPPLIERS WITH 
SIGNED CODE OF CONDUCT
100% 
SCOPE 3
2,925.3
SCOPE 1
13.4
SCOPE 2
265.6
CO2 TOTAL
-50%
PRODUCERS,
100% 
100% 
38%
3,204
2021: 
3,139
2021:  
100%
2021:  
0%
2021:  
0%
INTRO
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
35
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

36
BG
CZ
PT
RO
CH
8
5b
5
6
3
7
1
9
13
15
11
12
4
10
2
14
In 2022, our tarp buyers (aka «truck spotter») sourced around 340 
tons of used truck tarps for us. Over 85% of used truck tarps are pro-
cured by our agents. They buy used tarps for us within a radius of 
2,500 km and send us samples in advance so we can have the ma-
terial tested for safety. [∆ CIRCULAR OPERATIONS – p.43] Tarps suitable for 
bag production are disassembled by the agents and then delivered 
to us in Zurich-Oerlikon. Another 9% of the tarps we purchase come 
from direct suppliers in Germany, whose tarps are taken apart by a 
local partner. The rest comes from direct suppliers (e.g. freight com-
panies) in Switzerland, Austria, Italy, or France. We test these tarps 
and then disassemble them ourselves in our production facility in 
Zurich. Following this step, the pieces of tarp are washed and dried 
in a resource-saving manner. At the next stage, the tarps are cut to 
create unique pieces in the «Bag Design»: partly by hand with a cutter 
knife and template, and partly with the help of a machine, before be-
ing shipped to our European producers. There, the individual cut tarp 
pieces are sewn together with the other materials to form finished 
products, with producers in Bulgaria, Portugal and Switzerland also 
handling parts of the upstream cutting. We purchase the necessary 
accessories and fabrics, such as recycled PET textile or B-stock air-
bags, from selected suppliers. Our producers check and photograph 
some of the unique, finished items, but this mainly takes place back 
at the Nœrd headquarters. Then they are finally ready for sale.  
≥ FREITAG.CH/PRODUCTION
1	
TRUCKSPOTTING
2	
TARP REMOVAL 
3	
EXTRACTING TEST SAMPLES 
4	
TESTING CONSTITUENTS 
5	
CONFIRMING TARP SAFETY 
6	
DISASSEMBLY?
7	
WASHING
8	
DRYING
9	
BAG DESIGN?
10	
SHIPPING TO SEWING PARTNERS 
11	
SEWING
12	
QUALITY CONTROL 
13	
PHOTOGRAPHY 
14	
SHIPPING
15	
SALE
Production at FREITAG from truck tarp to delivery of the finished bag 
- illustrated here in the example of our recycled, individual products:
STAGES OF PRODUCTION
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG

37
List of FREITAG production partners 2022: 
 ≥ FREITAG.CH/PRODUCTION-PARTNERS-2022
 25
00 
KM 
LOCATIONS OF PRODUCERS
Bulgaria
Portugal
Czech Republic
Romania
Switzerland
LOCATIONS OF TARP DISASSEMBLY 
(VIA AGENTS)
UK 
Netherlands
Denmark
Poland
Switzerland*
Germany**
Spain
Portugal
Turkey
*DIRECT SUPPLIERS FROM SWITZERLAND, AUSTRIA, ITALY AND FRANCE DELIV-
ER TO THE NŒRD IN-HOUSE PRODUCTION FACILITY IN ZURICH, WHERE TARPS 
ARE ALSO DISASSEMBLED.
** DIRECT SUPPLIERS FROM GERMANY DELIVER TO AN EXTERNAL DISASSEMBLY 
STATION IN GERMANY.
LOCATIONS OF PRODUCTION
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG

SCOPE 3
OTHER INDIRECT EMISSIONS
SCOPE 2
INDIRECT ENERGY USE PER PRIMARY SOURCE
SCOPE 1
DIRECT ENERGY USE PER PRIMARY SOURCE
3,976.0
3,204.4
3,138.8
3,622.1
353.9
2,925.3
2,781.8
13.4
13.8
265.6 
343.2
FACTS & 
HIGHLIGHTS 2022
CARBON FOOTPRINT
[GRI 305-1,2,3] In 2022, for the fourth time, we calculated our green-
house gas emissions in line with the «Greenhouse Gas Protocol?». 
The evaluation was carried out by Swiss Climate and showed our 
emissions along the entire supply chain via Scope 1, 2 und 3?. Our 
emissions in 2022 increased by 2.1% to 3,204 t CO2 eq compared with 
the previous year (2021 corr: 3,139 t CO2 eq). The key factor here was 
increased production due to recovering markets following the Coro-
na pandemic. However, when emissions are considered in relation 
to products sold, emissions decreased from the previous year from 
7.6 kg CO2 eq to 6.2 kg CO2 eq per unit sold. In 2022, more accurate 
emission factors and data were available for the balancing process. 
Therefore, to ensure comparability with the previous year, the 2021 
carbon footprint was retroactively corrected from 4,000 t to 3,139 t 
CO2 eq. [∆ APPENDIX – S.79] ≥ GHGPROTOCOL.ORG 
2021 (CORR)
2020
2022
 CARBON FOOTPRINT, IN YEAR-ON-YEAR COMPARISON [t CO 2 EQ]
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
1,000
4,000
3,000
2,000
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
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38
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20
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CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
ENERGY-RELATED EMISSIONS AND ENERGY CONSUMPTION
[GRI 302-1] Scope 1 emissions remained relatively low at 13.4 t CO2 
eq (previous year: 13.8 t CO2 eq). These emissions are attributable to 
the energy consumption of gas heating systems from three FREITAG 
Stores, which fell by 12% to 66.5 MWh (previous year: 75.6 MWh). 
Scope 2 emissions decreased by 22.6% to 265.6 t CO2 eq (previous 
year: 343.2 t CO2 eq). These emissions are attributable to indirect 
energy consumption, which increased by 2.4% to 1,343.8 MWh (pre-
vious year: 1,312.7 MWh). The reduction in emissions is due to the 
increase in electricity consumption from renewable energies by 
25.9% to 502.9 MWh (previous year: 399.6 MWh). Renewable ener-
gies thus account for the largest share of indirect electricity con-
sumption with 37.4% (previous year: 30.4%). As electricity at our 
production facility in Zurich is sourced from renewable energy, the 
year-on-year increase in production volume of around 25% also re-
sulted in a higher proportion of renewable electricity. At 465.4 MWh, 
energy consumption by district heating increased to 34.6% (previ-
ous year: 390.4 MWh / 29.7%). By contrast, energy consumption of 
conventional electricity fell by 28.2% to 375.5 MWh (previous year: 
522.7 MWh) and accordingly amounted to only 27.9% (previous year: 
39.8%). 
This is due in part to the fact that FREITAG Stores used less conven-
tional electricity due to rising energy prices and power conservation 
efforts. Since September 2022, in addition to the stores in Switzer-
land and the EU that are legally required to do so, all international 
F-Stores have also turned off their lights completely between 10 
pm and 6 am. To further reduce energy consumption in F-Stores, 
the proportion of energy-saving light bulbs was reviewed in 2022. 
In all self-operated F-Stores, the proportion of LED lamps is to be 
increased from the current level of around 60% to 100% within the 
next three years: replacement is now mandatory as part of the regu-
lar store redesigns.
 CARBON FOOTPRINT SCOPE 3 BY EMISSION CATEGORY 2022
DISTRICT HEATING
34.6%
CONVENTIONAL 
ELECTRICITY
27.9%
RENEWABLE ELECTRICITY
37.4%
PURCHASED GOODS AND 
SERVICES
43.2%
CAPITAL GOODS
1.2%
FUEL AND ENERGY-
RELATED ACTIVITIES
1.2%
END-OF-LIFE TREATMENT OF 
SOLD PRODUCTS
9.1%
OPERATIONAL WASTE
6.7%
DOWNSTREAM
TRANSPORT
AND DISTRI-
BUTION ?
1.0%
UPSTREAM
TRANSPORT AND 
DISTRIBUTION ?
32.4%
EMPLOYEE COMMUTING
4.0%
BUSINESS TRAVEL
1.1%
 ENERGY CONSUMPTION SCOPE 2
EMISSIONS IN SCOPE 3
Scope 3 continues to account for the largest contribution of emis-
sions. Looking at the individual emission sources in Scope 3, the 
subcategory «purchased goods and services» with 1,264.9 t CO2 eq is 
responsible for 43.2% of scope 3 emissions (previous year: 1,020.5 t 
CO2 eq / 36.7%). The main factors within this category are producers’ 
emissions (48.4%) and raw materials (34.8%). This can be attributed 
primarily to increased production. 
With 948.3 t CO2 eq, the subcategory «upstream transport» accounts 
for 32.4% (previous year: 759.9 t CO2 eq / 27.3%). Most of this is at-
tributable to purchased outbound logistics for FREITAG products 
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
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10
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CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
that have been sold. Although international shipments by air freight 
to our end customers account for only 36.1% of the kilometers trave-
led, they are responsible for 74.3% of the emissions in this category. 
The reasons for the increase in air freight are, on the one hand, the 
closure of Chinese ports due to ongoing Covid measures. This meant 
we could supply our local online store warehouse in Shanghai only 
using air freight. In addition, due to the global container shortage 
and general challenges in ocean freight logistics, we also switched 
to air freight on other routes.
The third-largest category, with 265.2 t CO2 eq and 9.1%, is a new ad-
dition, «end-of-life treatment of products sold» (previous year: 267.0 
t CO2 eq / 9.6%). This is followed by the category «operational waste» 
with 196.1 t CO2 eq, which corresponds to 6.7% (previous year: 456.4 
t CO2 eq/ 16.4%). This category has decreased significantly com-
pared with the previous year, partly because since 2022 agents have 
increasingly been dismantling tarps themselves on site and the pro-
portion of bags cut externally has increased. For the sake of trans-
parency, this data is now also collected and reported more precisely 
[∆ CIRCULAR OPERATIONS – p.41] and is now included in the category «pur-
chased goods and services» for the greenhouse gas balance.
 PURCHASED GOODS AND SERVICE
IT SERVICE
0.9%
FINISHED GOODS FOR 
PRODUCTS
34.8%
FINISHED 
GOODS FOR 
SHOPS
4.2%
FOOD & BEVERAGES
8.8%
PAPER
0.3%
RAIL
<0.1%
SHIPPING
FREIGHT
2.9%
ROAD
60.9%
AIR FREIGHT
36.1%
TIER 1 MANUFACTURING
48.4%
PACKAGING
2.3%
 UPSTREAM TRANSPORT INCL. PURCHASED OUTBOUND LOGISTICS [TKM]
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
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10
15
20
25
30
35
45
40
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

MEASURED EMISSIONS
TARGET
ROADMAP TO NET-ZERO
According to the Circularity Roadmap, FREITAG aims to reduce CO2 
emissions by a total of 50% by 2030 compared with 2019. [∆ CIRCU-
LAR OPERATIONS – p.35] In 2022, in view of the importance and urgency 
of substantial global emissions reductions, FREITAG committed to 
company-wide emissions reductions in line with the scientifically 
based 1.5°C and net-zero targets according to the Science Based 
Target initiative (SBTi)? and developed a suitable roadmap. 
***SO FAR IT IS GENERALLY NOT YET POSSIBLE TO VERIFY LONG-TERM RE-
DUCTION TARGETS FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES (SMES) USING 
SBTi.
* CORRECTED RETROACTIVELY [∆ CIRCULAR OPERATIONS - p.38]
** TOTAL -50% COMPARED TO 2019 (ACCORDING TO CIRCULARITY ROADMAP) 
AND -42% SCOPE 1 & 2 COMPARED TO 2021 (ACCORDING TO SBTi)
The «FREITAG Roadmap to Net-Zero» consists of reduction targets 
by 2030 and 2050:
NEAR-TERM TARGET 2030
Our company commits to reduce absolute scope 1 and scope 2 GHG 
emissions 42% by 2030 from a 2021 base year, and to measure and 
reduce its scope 3 emissions. This emission target has been validat-
ed by the SBTi as being 1.5-degree compliant.  
LONG-TERM TARGET 2050
Our company commits to reach net-zero by 2050. As part of this, it 
commits to reduce absolute scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG emissions 90% by 
2050 from a 2021 base year.***
The factors with the greatest leverage here are reducing CO2 in the 
distribution of products, the use of circular materials, and the reduc-
tion of tarp waste. The first concrete measures in this regard can be 
found in the outlook for 2023. [∆ CIRCULAR OPERATIONS – p.46]
≥ SCIENCEBASEDTARGETS.ORG
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
OPERATIONAL WASTE
[GRI 306-3] Operational waste at the Nœrd production site in Zurich 
was reduced by 28.9% to 161 tonnes in 2022 (previous year: 225 t).
The largest proportion of operational waste at our Nœrd facility, 
around 120 tonnes is attributable to truck tarps (around 75%). Since 
our primary material is not new but derived from waste of other in-
dustries, it needs to be processed accordingly for upcycling into a 
bag: Superfluous elements, such as eyelets, buckles and straps, are 
removed from the truck tarps together with unusable sections of 
tarp. The waste produced by dismantling accounts for about 15% 
of total tarp waste. The general operational waste category also in-
cludes tarps that cannot be processed following quality control 
(33%) as well as the scraps generated when cutting the pieces for 
unique items (bag design) (53%).  [∆ CIRCULAR OPERATIONS – p.36]
 REDUCTION PATH [t CO 2]
BASE 2019 FOR 
-50% TARGET
BASE 2021 FOR 
SBTi TARGETS
LONG-TERM
TARGET 2050
NEAR-TERM
TARGET 2030**
5,981.5
3,999.8
2,990.8
400.0
CORR:
3,138.8*
 TARP WASTE AT NŒRD
WASTE CUTTING
52.5%
WASTE DISASSEMBLY 
(WITHOUT EYELETS)
14.7%
WASTE DUE
TO QUALITY
32.8% 
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
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0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
41
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

2020
METAL
WOOD
CARDBOARD
GENERAL OPERATIONAL
WASTE INCL. TARP
PET
PAPER
ELECTRICAL
SCRAP
GLASS
2021
2022
 OPERATING AND PRODUCTION WASTE [T] 
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
To reduce tarp waste in bag design, we produce small accessories 
from the cuttings. In addition, the company is always on the lookout 
for project ideas to recycle unused remnants. In 2022, for example, 
there were THE REAL RIP-OFF and F675 DIXON products.
[∆ CIRCULAR PRODUCTS – p.30]
Tarp waste from the Zurich production site is now sent as part of 
general operational waste to the local waste incineration plant. Our 
former recycling partner, specializing in PVC tarps, had to discontin-
ue operations in 2018 following a fire. This is clearly not a satisfacto-
ry way to dispose of waste, so we continue to look for a PVC recycling 
solution. In 2022, we conducted promising recycling tests for our 
tarp remnants with three specialist companies, but test results were 
still pending at the end the year. 
The remaining materials, such as cardboard (12%), wood (5%) and 
metal (3%), account for a comparatively small proportion of opera-
tional waste and are sent to specialist recyclers.
One reason for the substantial decrease in operational waste at 
Nœrd is that since the end of 2021 some of the tarps have been dis-
mantled by an external partner and tarp quality control is now han-
dled partly by our agents. [∆ CIRCULAR OPERATIONS – p.36] In order to ob-
tain as comprehensive a picture as possible of production waste, we 
have also included waste from our agents and external dismantling 
partner in Germany in the figures since 2022. Another reason for the 
reduction in 2022 was a warehouse clearance carried out the previ-
ous year at headquarters, which resulted in the disposal of a large 
quantity of substandard tarps.
200
100
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
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CIRCULAR SERVICES
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CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

43
TARP QUALITY CONTROL 
Upcycling used truck tarps, i.e., reprocessing waste from another in-
dustry, is beneficial from a resource consumption standpoint. How-
ever, this usually means we can only conclusively assess the quality 
of used truck tarps after their delivery. As a result, tarps that are 
too brittle or damaged by fungus, for example, or tarps from direct 
suppliers that contain substances unsuitable for making bags and 
accessories, can only be separated out on site. To ensure the safety 
of our products, we test our PVC tarps for undesirable constituents, 
such as various plasticizers (phthalates) and heavy metals.
Testing for unwanted plasticizers is carried out by our laboratory 
partner SQTS (Swiss Quality Testing Services). In our production fa-
cility at Zurich headquarters, we test tarps for heavy metal content 
(e.g. lead) using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) equipment. 
As our agents supply by far the largest proportion of tarps (over 
85%), they are directly involved in the testing process to ensure that 
they only deliver suitable tarps to Zurich. For this purpose, they send 
us advance test samples of the tarps, which we can evaluate in the 
laboratory in a few days. Direct suppliers, on the other hand, deliver 
their tarps without prior testing. [∆ CIRCULAR OPERATIONS – p.36]
Twice a year, our external laboratory partner monitors further devel-
opment of the REACH Regulation? (EU), the Swiss ChemRRV? and oth-
er chemical regulations in order to include additional constituents in 
our testing where necessary. 
PHOTO CREDIT: DANIEL NIEDERMEIER & JAN STAIGER
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG

44
SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN
 IVAYLO GRAHOVSKI FROM PROLET, FREITAG PRODUCTION PARTNER BULGARIA 
«WE HAVE BEEN WORKING WITH 
FREITAG FOR ALMOST A DECADE. 
WE SHARE THE SAME HIGH QUALITY 
STANDARDS REGARDING OUR WORK 
AND VALUES. THEY INCLUDE OUR 
CODE OF ETHICS, ENERGY-SAVING 
MEASURES, INVESTMENT IN SOLAR 
PANELS AND THE PROVISION OF IN-
CLUSIVE WORKPLACES.» 
15
5
10
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35
45
44
20
40
*A FREITAG SUPPLIER IS DEFINED AS AN ENTITY DELIVERING GOODS WORTH 
AT LEAST 500 CHF ANNUALLY. 
The «FREITAG Code of Conduct», which is based on UN conventions 
and FREITAG-specific values, is our guideline for all our business 
activities and regulates working conditions as well as social and en-
vironmental compatibility. Through use of these binding guidelines 
and a process of continuous dialogue, we address our requirements 
for sustainable procurement in the social, ecological and economic 
sense and continuously promote them. Furthermore, all our produc-
ers are currently located within a radius of 2,500 km from Zurich, 
allowing us to keep transport distances to a minimum.
[∆ CIRCULAR OPERATIONS – p.37] 
Our producer selection process includes, among other things, cri-
teria such as the responsible use of materials and energy, fair and 
social working conditions, and employee training programs. This 
process also specifies that before making any decision to cooperate 
with a partner, we have an internal agreement with the «Sustainabil-
ity & Compliance Officer». 
As an example of social commitment in the supply chain, we have a 
limited number of products (0.4%) produced by «Nähwerk», a work 
integration service organized by the city of Zurich for socially disad-
vantaged people. [∆ APPENDIX – p.78] ≥ STADT-ZUERICH.CH/NAEHWERK 
PHOTO CREDIT: JOËL TETTAMANTI
DIALOGUE IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN
To meet our requirements for sustainable procurement, we extend-
ed the scope of the «FREITAG Code of Conduct» 2022 to include our 
agents and suppliers. All our producers had already signed the code 
of conduct in 2021, but in 2022 this was followed by 100% of agents 
and 38% of suppliers. In the case of suppliers, the first step was to 
approach the partner companies with regular orders*. 
≥ FREITAG.CH/CODEOFCONDUCT
As a means of further increasing transparency in the supply chain, 
we have developed a self-assessment questionnaire for our main 
producers, i.e. sewing partners. Since 2022, apart from environmen-
tal indicators, we have also been collecting data on social conditions 
at our producers in an annual survey. This means asking questions 
about issues such as compliance with local and national law, the 
prohibition of forced labor and child labor, protection against har-
assment, abuse and discrimination, the right to freedom of associ-
ation and collective bargaining. The first self-assessment gives us 
a better understanding of how our producers' employees are faring. 
The results and potential for improvement were discussed individ-
ually with each producer in a spirit of transparent dialogue. In sum-
mary, the initial survey found no shortcomings for 2022. 
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG

*COUNTRIES ARE CONSIDERED TO BE AT HIGH RISK FOR CHILD LABOR IF THE 
UNICEF CHILD LABOR INDEX SCORE IS ABOVE 3.
The self-assessment is part of the risk-analysis process we carry out 
with our producers to check compliance with the «Code of Conduct» 
and thus meet our own duty of care. While the first three steps were 
implemented accordingly in 2022, the fourth step will be implement-
ed for the first time from 2023. 
≥	
In a first step, all producers are classified according to the 
	
country in which they produce for shortcomings regarding child 	
	
and forced labor as well as corruption. 
 ≥	 The second step is formal commitment to the «FREITAG Code of
	
Conduct», which was achieved for all producers in 2021. 
	
Agreement on and signing of the joint code of conduct lays the
	
fundamental basis for further steps.
 ≥	 The third step is a self-assessment process, which all our
	
producers underwent in 2022. The producers receive and
	
complete a questionnaire. This is followed by an online interview 
	
with FREITAG to discuss the answers together. In line with our 
	
partnership-based cooperation, this exchange is carried out
	
in a spirit of trust. If data is missing, inconsistent or incompre-
	
hensible, we discuss the issue critically in the interview. 
 ≥	 For countries with a high risk of child labor*, an audit is carried 
	
out on site to check the information from the self-assessment.
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
PHOTO CREDIT: ROLAND TÄNNLER
WATER CONSUMPTION
[GRI 303-5] When the Nœrd production site was built, the tarp wash-
ing section was designed to comply with ecological criteria: Before 
processing into bags, all tarps are washed here. Depending on the 
amount of rainfall, we can cover an average of 50% of our water 
needs in production with collected rainwater. Heat pumps extract 
the heat from the dirty water and transfer it to the clean rainwater. 
Some of the rainwater is used twice, and the washed tarps are then 
dried using energy-saving dehumidifiers in a separate room instead 
of a tumble dryer. Furthermore, we use an environmentally friend-
ly detergent with the «EU Eco Label» and do not have to treat the 
waste water afterwards.
In 2022, total water consumption more than doubled to 8,512 m3 
compared with the previous year. This is due to the fact that, in addi-
tion to production and stores, we now include water consumption by 
our offices. Our figures for stores and offices are based on estimates, 
for which we use more conservative values from 2022 onwards, 
showing a daily value twice as high (100 L/person instead of 50 L/
person). Water consumed in production at Nœrd (excluding collected 
rainwater) also increased by 37% to 1,892 m3 due to increased pro-
duction volume. 
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
0
10
15
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25
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5
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG

We are realizing initial measures in the «FREITAG Roadmap to Net-Zero»: In 2023, we are 
re-implementing the recycling of tarp waste and embarking on an evaluation of CO2 reduction 
projects in logistics. With regard to material selection, the «Circular Design Guidelines»
[∆ CIRCULAR PRODUCTS – p.33] lay the foundations for a circular material library.
In production, we are attempting to certify tarp quality control and improve the database on 
production waste generated by producers and agents. 
Once all our producers, agents and major suppliers have signed the «Code of Conduct», we will 
then approach all our smaller suppliers. In order to check whether the «Code of Conduct» is be-
ing properly used, we will carry out initial audits of social and environmental conditions at pro-
ducers in countries where risks have been identified.
01
OUTLOOK 2023
02
03
PLANNED MEASURES
Our focus for 2022 is on developing a 
«Roadmap to Net-Zero». In order to 
achieve net zero by 2050, we will be de-
fining paths to reduction so that we can 
introduce appropriate measures. These 
paths include, among other things, the 
further reduction in waste, especially 
tarp waste. To this end, we are initiating 
projects with new design approaches to 
reduce the high proportion of unused uni-
colored tarps.
To further increase transparency in 
the supply chain, we have developed a 
self-assessment tool. From 2022, our pro-
ducers will need to complete a question-
naire covering environmental indicators 
and, for the first time, social indicators. 
To meet our requirements for sustainable 
procurement, we will extend the scope 
of the «Code of Conduct» to include our 
agents and suppliers.
01
ACHIEVEMENT OF TARGETS 
IN 2022
02
03
PLANNED MEASURES
STATUS
MEASURES IMPLEMENTED
see FACTS &
HIGHLIGHTS 2022:
∆ ROADMAP TO NET-ZERO
  p.41
∆ OPERATIONAL WASTE p.41
∆ NEW PRODUCTS FROM PRO-
	 DUCTION WASTE p.30 
see FACTS &
HIGHLIGHTS 2022: 
∆ DIALOGUE IN THE SUPPLY 
CHAIN p.44
see FACTS &
HIGHLIGHTS 2022:
∆ DIALOGUE IN THE SUPPLY 
CHAIN p.44
TARGET 
ACHIEVED
TARGET 
ACHIEVED
TARGET
PARTIALLY 
ACHIEVED
  ACHIEVEMENT OF TARGETS IN 2022 + OUTLOOK 2023
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
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40

43
40
41
42
45
48
49
50
51
52
54
55
56
57
53
44
42
43
45
48
49
50
51
52
54
55
56
57
53
44
40
41
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
-01 00
-02
-03
-04
-06
-07
-08
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
-01 00
-02
-03
-04
-06
-07
-08
0
09
-09
-10
-11
-12
-13
-14
-15
16
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
-09
-10
-11
-12
-13
09
10
11
12
13
0
CIRCULAR 
SERVICES
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
47
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

7,011
201
0
REPAIRED PRODUCTS
EXCHANGED BAGS
BORROWED BAGS
We create innovative and inspiring services 
to ensure that the life cycles of FREITAG 
products last as long as possible and that 
in the future circular products are actually 
returned to the materials cycle at the end of 
their lives.
Our commitment to the circular economy does 
not end with finalizing a product or its sale. We try 
to think of processes as a composite whole and 
to close cycles with well-considered ser­vices. It 
is even better if we can inspire others with our 
approach and the corresponding services and 
convince them that it is necessary and essential 
that we think and act this way. Our first goal is to 
extend the life cycles of FREITAG products, and to 
achieve this, we have various offers for repair, ex-
change and other uses. In a second step, we are 
setting up a «take-back» system that will enable 
our circular materials to circulate in closed cycles 
in the future.
WE PROVIDE SERVICES TO 
PROLONG AND CLOSE CYCLES.
 TARGET 2030
 AMBITION
  INTRO
 METRICS 2022
50%
1.3%
CIRCULATING PRODUCTS THANKS 
TO CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULATING PRODUCTS
(TOTAL PRODUCT-RELATED SERVICES USED  
RELATIVE TO PRODUCTS SOLD)
INTRO
2021:  
1.3%
2021:  
5,473
2021:
60
2021:
124
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
48
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

49
PHOTO CREDITS: PHILIP FROWEIN
REPAIR SERVICE 
For almost as long as FREITAG bags have been around, we have been 
extending their lives with a range of repair services: We replace de-
fective Velcro fasteners and zips, bicycle inner tubes, straps and la-
bels, close open seams and can sometimes even rebuild rips, holes 
and worn areas in the used truck tarp. For simple problems, we sup-
ply spare parts such as screws, buckles, rubber fixtures, buttons, 
etc., free of charge online or at FREITAG Stores so bag owners can 
quickly fix their products on the spot by themselves. 
SERVICES
To make our services as widely available as possible and keep trans-
port distances to a minimum, this kind of work is no longer carried 
out only at headquarters in Zurich but increasingly at repair sta-
tions? in Japan, Korea, Singapore, China, Taiwan, Thailand, Australia 
and Germany. Defective products can be dropped off at all F-Stores 
or registered for repair online and then sent in. The cost of a repair 
depends on the type of damage and the time and effort the repair 
entails. We do not make a profit on repairs, and charges are merely a 
contribution to the costs. ≥ FREITAG.CH/REPAIR
 MORENA EBERLE, REPAIR SPECIALIST AT FREITAG
«WITH US, NOT ONLY THE TARPS GET 
A SECOND LIFE BUT ALSO THE BAGS.»
S.W.A.P. EXCHANGE SERVICE 
For anyone who no longer uses their FREITAG bag but would like an-
other model, we’ve offered a non-commercial online bag exchange 
platform (S.W.A.P. – Shopping Without Any Payment) since 2019. 
In just a few steps, owners can register their used bag and upload 
it to a Tinder-like platform where people hoping to swap can swipe 
through the bags of other bag owners instead of buying a new one. 
If there’s a match, the users handle the actual exchange between 
themselves. ≥ FREITAG.CH/SWAP 
THE #GONEWITHFREITAG BAG LOAN 
In keeping with a specific point in the FREITAG manifesto, «We prefer 
access over ownership», we’ve been repeatedly running the #gone-
withfreitag bag loan campaign since 2016: FREITAG travel bags can 
be borrowed free of charge at FREITAG Stores and from selected re-
tail partners. The only commitment for the borrower is to post a pic 
on Instagram with the hashtag #gonewithfreitag and return the bag 
to the F-Store three weeks later. It’s our way of showing that sharing 
and using consumer goods is a sensible alternative to buying and 
owning them. During the worldwide Corona pandemic with its limited 
travel options, our lending campaign was unceremoniously changed 
from #gonewithfreitag to #ridewithfreitag: Instead of travel bags, 
customers could borrow bike-friendly products. At headquarters, we 
also have a free bag library reserved specially for the F-Crew, which 
contains around 150 different bags for any conceivable carrying 
need.
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
CIRCULAR SERVICES

50
 
PHOTO CREDIT: PHILIP FROWEIN
TAKE-BACK SERVICE
Take-back systems are central to ensuring that circular products and 
materials actually remain in the cycle. FREITAG therefore takes back 
its recyclable products in order to have them recycled by specialist 
partner companies and then used again as a source of materials for 
new products. 
Initially, we are offering the take-back service for CIRC-CASE, cur-
rently the only recyclable product in our range. As the product port-
folio steadily moves towards greater circularity [∆ CIRCULAR PRODUCTS – 
p.26], the take-back service will assume greater importance in the 
future. ≥ FREITAG.CH/TAKEBACK
CUSTOMIZATION
FREITAG Customization Services enable customers to put togeth-
er selected products in line with their own ideas. This particular 
scheme allows customers to see the ins and outs of FREITAG bag 
production for themselves and to understand what a unique item is 
and how it is created. This can strengthen the emotional connection 
with the product, which ideally has a positive effect on the product's 
service life. This service is the only one not included in the figures 
for circulating products, as we do not have any data on the increased 
service life of customized products.
FREITAG Yourself: At the four FREITAG Stores in Zurich (Grüngasse), 
Bangkok, Kyoto and most recently Munich, customers can assemble 
and finish a unique truck tarp bag in line with their own ideas using 
pre-cut sections of tarp or semi-finished products. The service also 
allows FREITAG to use the smaller tarp remnants produced during 
the cutting process in Zurich and thus reduce waste even further.
(CARGO) BIKE LOAN
If you live in Zurich or Kyoto and need to transport something 
through the city, you don't have to own a cargo bike: you can simply 
borrow one from the FREITAG Store for a small fee. And if you don't 
feel like exploring the bike-friendly city of Amsterdam on foot, you 
can borrow a bike refurbished from old parts at the F-Store there.
≥ FREITAG.CH/CARGO-BIKE
F-Cut: Since 2022, customers have been using our newly developed 
online design tool to become bag designers by tailoring a unique 
piece to their own taste from a selection of digitized truck tarps.
 ≥ FREITAG.CH/CUSTOMIZATION
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
CIRCULAR SERVICES

2020
2021
2022
 NUMBER OF REPAIRS: YEAR-ON-YEAR COMPARISON
FACTS & 
HIGHLIGHTS 2022
NEW REPAIR STATION MUNICH
To strengthen the repair service and at the same time promote local 
value creation, we are continuously expanding the repair network. A 
new repair station was opened in the newly renovated FREITAG Store 
Munich in November 2022. The bag repair workshop is highly visible 
in the store as well as to passers-by and provides an insight into the 
life-extending craft. 
Unfortunately, at about the same time, the repair station in Milan, 
which opened in 2021, had to close again. Our external partner was 
struggling to handle the widely varying quantities of bags to be re-
paired, which is why we are looking for new partners in Milan. 
All in all, the repair stations handled 7,011 bags in 2022. This is 
28.1% more than in the previous year, which is due to the fact that 
almost all FREITAG Stores were able to reopen during the year after 
the Corona pandemic had subsided, making the repair service more 
easily accessible for bag owners. 
PHOTO CREDIT: ELIAS BÖTTICHER
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
LOCAL S.W.A.P. EVENTS
On Black Friday 2022, the FREITAG Online Store was closed for a 
day for the fourth time in succession, and users were redirected 
to S.W.A.P. for sensible bag exchanges. For the first time, S.W.A.P. 
events were held simultaneously at 15 FREITAG Stores. In just one 
day, 198 bags changed hands, which was more than three times  
the number of bags exchanged in the course of the entire previous 
year (60 bags). 
In 2022, about 2,651 bags (-34.7% to previous year) were active for 
exchange and over 6,500 (-11.0% to previous year) matches between 
bag owners were registered. However, only three exchanged bags 
(-78.6% to previous year) were finally registered via the platform. This 
figure should be taken with a pinch of salt, as experience has shown 
that not all users report their exchanged bags as such. Neverthe-
less, we assume that there was a decline corresponding to the lower 
numbers of active bags and matches. One reason for the low figures, 
we suspect, is the effort and individual shipping costs involved when 
bag owners from remote parts of the world get in touch with each 
other. Accordingly, since 2022, local bags are always displayed first. 
Further improvements in user-friendliness are planned for 2024 
as part of a comprehensive redesign, so that the S.W.A.P. exchange 
platform can develop its full potential in the future.
6,391
5,473
7,011
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
51
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

CIRC-CASE TAKE-BACK
Smartphone cases have a relatively short lifespan due to the rapid­
ly changing sizes of device generations. It was therefore a priority 
for FREITAG to establish not only a circular product but also a func-
tioning take-back system for this product category. The first prod-
uct-specific FREITAG take-back service was introduced with the 
launch of the F385 CIRC-CASE, a model manufactured from worn-out 
ski boots, which are made of a mono-material, TPU. [∆ CIRCULAR PRODUCTS 
– p.28] 
If the current CIRC-CASE no longer fits the new smartphone, cus-
tomers can return the sleeve either in person or by mail to the near-
est FREITAG Store. FREITAG combines transport back to Zurich and 
then on to Davos, where our production partner is located, with other 
shipments. There, the discarded CIRC-CASES – like the discarded ski 
boots before them – are processed into R-TPU granulate, which can 
then be turned into a new batch of CIRC-CASES. ≥ FREITAG.CH/TAKEBACK
CUSTOMIZATION: F-CUT LAUNCH
Since May 2022, FREITAG customers have been able to fulfill their 
individual bag dreams on the new F-Cut online customization plat-
form. With virtual templates and a choice of 20 to 50 different dig-
itized truck tarps, they can design their own F712 DRAGNET mes-
senger bag, entirely to their own taste. In 2022, 1,221 bags were 
produced in this manner. 
As with classic tarp cutting in FREITAG production, there comes a 
moment with the F-Cut when there is no more room for a template 
on the tarp. F-Cut tool users don’t pay as much attention to getting 
maximum mileage out of the tarps as FREITAG bag designers, who 
normally cut the unique pieces, so tarp consumption is general-
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
PHOTO CREDITS: JESPER BORG
SCREENSHOT F-CUT.CH
ly somewhat higher. However, the offcuts are subsequently used to 
make smaller products in the existing product portfolio (never out 
of stock).  ≥ F-CUT.CH
FREITAG X SHARELY
Apart from daily business, the newly founded F.L.O.P. (FREITAG Lab-
oratory Of Progress) has already been able to test the first circular 
business models for the subject of «Access Over Ownership».
[∆ FREITAG – p.7] As one of the first visible results, FREITAG bags have 
been available for rent on the Swiss Sharely sharing platform since 
November 2022 or for purchase via the Try & Buy option. Since this 
is not a proprietary FREITAG service, the bags shared as a result are 
not included in key figures for our circular services. ≥ SHARELY.CH
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
52
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

For the first time, we focus specifically on circular services as part of company strategy.
To give the concept the force and impetus it needs, a «Service Driver» position will be created 
and filled in 2023 to complement Product Management.
To make repairs even easier for us and our customers, we are looking at new ways of training 
our repair professionals and at measures to increase efficiency. We are also devoting a commu-
nications campaign to the topic of repair.
After the lack of personnel resources for a #gonewithfreitag campaign in 2022, the campaign 
will be resumed in 2023 and optimized so that it can be repeated every year in the future. 
F.L.O.P. is also implementing further test projects as part of our «Access over Ownership» 
approach.
01
OUTLOOK 2023
02
03
PLANNED MEASURES
To reduce transport distances and wait-
ing times in connection with repairs, we 
are further expanding the localized repair 
services network.
We are introducing the FREITAG «Take-
Back» service for new circular products 
such as the R-TPU smartphone case and 
setting up the underlying processes such 
as sorting and recycling.
We want to further promote bag swapping 
and increase the exchange rate. We're 
therefore expanding the S.W.A.P. digital 
exchange platform globally with S.W.A.P. 
events at numerous FREITAG Stores.
01
ACHIEVEMENT OF TARGETS 
IN 2022
02
03
PLANNED MEASURES
STATUS
MEASURES IMPLEMENTED
see FACTS &
HIGHLIGHTS 2022:
∆ NEW REPAIR STATION
MUNICH p.51 
see FACTS &
HIGHLIGHTS 2022: 
∆ LOCAL S.W.A.P. EVENTS  
  p.51
see FACTS &
HIGHLIGHTS 2022:
∆ CIRC‑CASE TAKE-BACK
  p.52
TARGET 
ACHIEVED
TARGET 
ACHIEVED
TARGET
PARTIALLY 
ACHIEVED
  ACHIEVEMENT OF TARGETS IN 2022 + OUTLOOK 2023
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
53
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

43
40
41
42
45
48
49
50
51
52
54
55
56
57
53
44
42
43
45
48
49
50
51
52
54
55
56
57
53
44
40
41
30
30
20
20
10
0
0
20
10
20
40
30
10
40
10
20
30
40
10
20
30
40
10
20
30
40
50   00
00   50
40
10
10
20
20
40
20
30
40
10
10
20
30
40
10
20
30
40
10
40
50
50
30
40
50
50
40
30
50   00
00   50
10
D
1
3
2
B
A
E
C
B
E
CIRCULAR 
COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
54
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

FREITAG inspires and is inspired. 
That’s why we maintain a values-based and 
transparent dialogue with our stakeholders. 
We want them to become a part of our 
cycles and for us to become part of theirs. 
[GRI 3-3] The circular economy only works with 
partnerships. The bigger the circle, the more it 
can unfold its full potential. For this reason, we 
encourage an exchange with our stakeholders. In 
other words, we stand for transparency and share 
our expertise and the challenges we face so that 
we can learn from and inspire each other to find 
joint solutions. We see this dialog as an integral 
part of our aim to develop cycles that are truly 
circular.
WE CONNECT TO INSPIRE
AND BE INSPIRED.
 AMBITION
 TARGET 2030
  INTRO
39
1,902
2.2  
PUBLIC APPEARANCES 
AND PRESENTATIONS ON 
SUSTAINABILITY AND 
CIRCULARITY
PARTICIPANTS IN GUIDED 
TOURS OF THE FREITAG 
FACTORY
BILLION REACH OF
VALUES-BASED
COMMUNICATION
 METRICS 2022
TRANSPARENCY 
AND INSPIRATION 
FOR CIRCULARITY
INTRO
2021:
30
2021:
920
2021:
3.9
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
55
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

56
SECONDARY
EXTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
PRIMARY
EXTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
INTERNAL
STAKEHOLDERS
PRESS
UNIVERSITIES/
SCHOOLS
LOCAL POPULATION
MUSEUMS
MUNICIPALITY / 
CITY
DISTRIBUTION
PARTNERS
SHAREHOLDERS
SUBSIDIARY 
GROUPS
SUPPLIERS
PRODUCERS
EMPLOYEES
PROJECT
PARTNERS
SERVICE
COMPANIES
TRADE
ASSOCIATIONS
AUTHORITIES CH &
INTERNATIONAL
NGO
PEERS
 OVERVIEW OF FREITAG STAKEHOLDERS IN TERMS OF PROXIMITY TO COMPANY
CUSTOMERS
[GRI 2-29] At FREITAG, we consider stakeholders to be all the indi-
viduals or organizations that could influence the fulfillment of our 
purpose or are influenced by our actions. These include the com-
pany’s internal stakeholders, such as employees, primary external 
stakeholders closely linked to us through the supply chain or on-
going projects, and secondary external stakeholders, where stake-
holder interactions are more ad hoc. Together, they form the FREITAG 
fluid stakeholder network. In the circular economy, such networks 
STAKEHOLDER
[GRI 2-29] In 2022, FREITAG implemented a systematic stakeholder 
analysis for the first time. [∆ APPENDIX – p.70] In order to set the right 
priorities in our dialogue with specific sets of stakeholders, we iden-
tified three fields of action with different forms of interaction based 
on recorded requirements. 
INNOVATION AND INSPIRATION
Regular exchange formats in larger groups help to build knowledge 
and strengthen networks. It was not possible to implement a propri-
etary format for FREITAG events and content format in 2022 due to 
a lack of human resources. Instead, the focus has been on support-
ing events related to the circular economy, for example as a location 
partner at FREITAG headquarters. We also intensified public appear-
ances for the «Circular Technologist» and «Sustainability & Compli-
ance Officer» roles. [∆ CIRCULAR COMMUNITY – p.60]
EXPANSION OF STAKEHOLDER
DIALOGUE
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY
Direct dialogue with stakeholders who have a strong dependence on 
FREITAG makes it possible to address these diverse and legitimate 
demands on the company. In this context, 2022 saw, among other 
measures, a repeat of the employee satisfaction survey [∆ CIRCULAR 
F-CREW - p.19] and the introduction of an annual self-assessment with 
producers on environmental and social issues. [∆ CIRCULAR OPERATIONS - 
p.44] Opportunities for exchange with customers in other time zones 
were also improved by expanding customer service and launching a 
dedicated online communication platform for FREITAG distribution 
partners. 
RISK
Continuous monitoring and proactive relationship management are 
central to preventing conflicts with influential stakeholders or en-
couraging them to lead to constructive discourse. In 2022, therefore, 
we revised the risk monitoring process and created the «Risk Scien-
tist» role. Together with the specialist roles from Finance, Communi-
cations and Sustainability, this role prepares an assessment of busi-
ness risks and presents it to the Administrative Board. 
[∆ FREITAG – p.8]
A detailed table with all stakeholders and measures enacted can be 
found in the appendix. [∆ APPENDIX – p.83-84]
are constantly in flux: our secondary external stakeholders can be-
come partners relevant to specific projects, for example, or our cus-
tomers can become future material suppliers via circular take-back 
systems. We cultivate stakeholder relationships through our official 
communication and sales channels, factory tours, panel discussions 
and events, as well as personal exchanges. We aim to develop these 
relationships selectively.
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
CIRCULAR SERVICES

57
FACTS & 
HIGHLIGHTS 2022
SOCIAL COMMITMENT
Through our social commitment, we aim to provide a positive impe-
tus above and beyond our everyday work in the areas we can influ-
ence. Accordingly, since 2019, FREITAG salary regulations have made 
provision for 10% of employees’ annual profit-sharing to be ear-
marked for charitable purposes. [∆ FREITAG – p.16] 
An allocation process for funds available in the «FREITAG Nonprofit 
Fund» was finally defined in 2022. In 2019, 2020, and 2022, a prof-
it-sharing bonus was distributed and funds were appropriated ac-
cordingly for nonprofit investment. The only year when we didn’t 
reach the prescribed EBIT threshold for profit-sharing was 2021, due 
to the Corona pandemic. 
To establish criteria for allocating these funds, we created a  
«Nonprofit Investor» role in 2021. In 2022, in small stints, the three 
internally elected individuals finalized the award process. To help 
draw up the «FREITAG Nonprofit Fund Guidelines», they obtained 
input from the entire F-Crew.
Using the criteria defined for the award, we selected and support-
ed the first projects in 2022. To alleviate the effects of the war in 
Ukraine, the entire budget from 2019 was donated to the two human-
itarian aid organizations Libereco and Médecins Sans Frontières. The 
decision was made by the «Nonprofit Investors» in a dialogue with 
FREITAG employees who had themselves experienced the Kosovo 
war in the 1990s. In accordance with the result of an F-Crew vote, the 
nonprofit organization Velafrica, which combines integration work in 
Switzerland with development cooperation in Africa, also received 
support. 
A portion of funds from 2021 as well as the new budget from 2022 
have not yet been distributed. A key challenge emerged in that it 
takes a great deal of fundraising knowledge and time for research 
to allocate available funds responsibly. For instance, we have yet to 
identify suitable projects for long-term investment in the circular 
economy.
NONPROFIT FUND GUIDELINES
The «FREITAG Nonprofit Fund Guidelines» define the thematic and 
geographic focus for the allocation of available funds for nonprofit 
purposes: 
AREAS
Planet: Circular economy, design
Social: Education, humanitarian aid, society, social design
Bikes: Bicycles, urban development
TYPE OF BENEFICIARIES
NGOs, associations, start-ups, trainees (private individuals, 
universities)
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS
 
Europe, Africa and Asia 
[GRI 415-1] The type of support provided is limited to donations, schol-
arships, and interest-free loans for long-term commitments. Ap-
plications are not accepted; instead, «Nonprofit Investors» actively 
seek out projects. Purely political, commercial or religious organiza-
tions as well as classic event sponsoring are excluded from funding. 
While selected internal specialist roles work together on the complex 
thematic focus of Planet, beneficiary projects in the areas of Social 
and Bikes are determined in an F-Crew vote after a pre-selection of 
«Nonprofit Investors».
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
0
10
15
20
25
30
57
5
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
CIRCULAR SERVICES

BLACK FRIDAY -  
DON’T SHOP, JUST S.W.A.P. 
In our communications, we focus on making our values exciting and 
entertaining. Our aim here is to inspire sustainable and sensible con-
sumption. For example, with our statement against Black Friday, in 
which FREITAG has never participated with any discount promotions. 
In 2019, we began to think about how to use it to communicate our 
diametrically opposed position. It resulted in the «100% OFF» cam-
paign, which encouraged people to beat the buying hysteria by going 
into swap mode. 
In 2022, we closed the FREITAG Online Store on Black Friday for the 
fourth year in succession and redirected all website visitors to our 
S.W.A.P. (Shopping Without Any Payment) bag exchange platform. 
[∆ CIRCULAR SERVICES – p.49] For the first time 15 physical FREITAG 
Stores from Zurich to Tokyo also participated and invited customers 
to «S.W.A.P. Friday». While store checkouts closed early on Black
Friday, FREITAG bag owners were able to join a S.W.A.P. event and get 
a new bag without spending money or wasting resources. 
[∆ CIRCULAR SERVICES – p.51] 
As in the previous year, we looked for like-minded brands and man-
aged to acquire three new partners. By joining forces with Asket, 
Brompton, Flamingos' life, Mud Jeans, Raeburn, Soeder, Secrid, and 
Oy, we were able to give our statement for sustainable and sensible 
consumption even more weight than if we had been alone. With this 
campaign, we reached over 110 million people globally in 2022. 
≥ MEDIA.FREITAG.CH/MEDIA/BLACKFRIDAY
MATERIAL TRANSPARENCY IN THE 
ONLINE STORE
We decided to give customers involved in the purchasing process 
more transparent information about materials and enable them to 
make more conscious decisions. From 2022, therefore, we have add-
ed detailed information about the materials used in the most popular 
bags in the FREITAG Online Store. The information includes a recy-
cling percentage for each product (weight percentage of all materials 
from upcycling, recycling, and B-stock goods) as well as listing each 
component in the product individually, with the exact material.
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
58
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

CIRC-CASE
Our circular F385 CIRC-CASE protective sleeves are produced from 
recycled ski boots and at the end of their service life can be recycled 
again and again. [∆ CIRCULAR PRODUCTS – p.28] For this innovative product 
development, FREITAG cooperated with several Swiss partners: 
 ≥	 In Davos, discarded ski boots made of TPU mono-material are 
	
collected, disassembled and prepared for new applications by 
	
our recycling partner, Argo, a sheltered workshop that integrates 
	
people with disabilities into the world of work. 
 ≥	 The pure shell parts are then sent to the Institute for Materials 
	
Technology and Plastics Processing (IWK) at the Eastern Switzer-
	
land University of Applied Sciences in Rapperswil. There, the 
	
coarsely shredded plastic is analyzed, sorted by color, and ex-
	
truded into a granulate. 
 ≥	 In Mönchaltorf, the granulate is molded onto the body of a
	
current iPhone® model by our production partner Pfister 
	
Werkzeugbau AG.
 ≥	 At the end of their life cycle, F385 CIRC-CASES that are no 
	
longer serviceable are sent back to Davos, where they are
	
dismantled and returned to the R-TPU cycle.
All production steps take place in Switzerland within a radius of 150 
km from Zurich. However, the necessary product know-how first had 
to be built up collaboratively. However, this effort has been worth-
while for us as well as for our partner companies. 
 ANNA KERSCHBAUMER, PRODUCT DRIVER AT FREITAG
«DURING THE INTENSIVE DEVELOP-
MENT PERIOD, THE SHORT DISTAN-
CES IN PRODUCTION AND PROXIMI-
TY TO OUR PARTNERS WERE A BIG 
PLUS.»
The successful collaboration between FREITAG and the IWK was also 
the topic of this year's external F-Academy, at which we provided the 
community with online insights into the opportunities and challeng-
es of this circular product development.
≥ FREITAG.CH/F-ACADEMY
THE CIRCULAR TARP
As part of our quest to ensure that FREITAG bags aren’t merely re-
cycled but also recyclable, in 2020 we began developing a circular 
truck tarp as an alternative to the existing one made of PVC.
[∆ CIRCULAR PRODUCTS – p.28] To this end, we gathered relevant partners 
from the entire supply chain in Europe together at a round table. This 
cross-competitive dialogue resulted in joint development initiatives 
involving various working groups.  
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIPS & 
COLLABORATIONS
In 2022, thanks to our collaborative partner network, we were able 
to push ahead with important projects. At product level, we worked 
closely with various Swiss partner companies to launch a circular 
smartphone case. As regards materials, we and international part-
ners in industry tested the first prototypes of the circular truck tarp. 
And in our stores, we put on local collab events to promote aware-
ness of repair services. 
PHOTO CREDIT: YURI SCHMID
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
59
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

In 2022, the various material development approaches were driv-
en forward in partnership and, in tandem with chemical company 
Covestro, tarp producers Heytex and Rivertex, and tarp assemblers 
Bieri, we sent the first tarp prototypes out on their road test. To en-
sure that all manufacturing steps and chemical components can 
really be described as circular, they were evaluated by our innova-
tion partner EPEA - Part of Drees & Sommer using the Cradle to Cra-
dle®-method? bewertet.  ≥ FREITAG.CH/CIRCULARTARP
 ANNA BLATTERT, CIRCULAR TECHNOLOGIST AT FREITAG
«BY FORCING OURSELVES TO GO ALL 
OUT TO ACHIEVE MAXIMUM CIRCU-
LARITY, WE DON'T EXACTLY MAKE IT 
EASY FOR OURSELVES. IT’S ALL THE 
MORE IMPRESSIVE THAT THE PRO-
JECT HAS BEEN SO WELL RECEIVED 
IN THE INDUSTRY AND THAT EVEN 
COMPANIES THAT OTHERWISE ACT AS 
COMPETITORS ARE NOW COLLABO-
RATING WITH US ON THE CIRCULAR 
TARP. BECAUSE THAT'S THE ONLY WAY 
A CIRCULAR ECONOMY CAN ACTUALLY 
TAKE FLIGHT.»
REPAIR COLLAB EVENTS
For years now, we have been extending the lives of FREITAG bags 
with our repair services [∆ CIRCULAR SERVICS – p.49] In 2022, two local 
repair events were also held that stressed the idea of collaboration 
and conveyed the importance of repairing beyond FREITAG products. 
In October 2022, the FREITAG Store in Shibuya Tokyo organized a 
collaborative repair event. Together with brands Patagonia and The 
North Face the event offered free repairs for clothing and acces-
sories independently of the brand. Almost at the same time the 
­FREITAG Store Milano put on a bike repair event with local social lab 
Parallelo. At this event, interested bike owners were shown how to 
repair their bikes themselves. 
Panel participation at the local Tsüri.ch event on the 
topic of the circular economy at the FREITAG factory
(location partnership) (CH) 
Input presentation at the Zurich Design Week 2022 on 
the topic of the circular economy (CH)
Exhibition on the theme of the circular tarp at the Dutch 
Design Week in Eindhoven (NL)
Panel discussion at the «K» Trade Fair in Düsseldorf on 
the topic of circular business models (DE)
Input presentation at the Kerenzerberg Future Forum 
on the topic of circular business models (CH)
01
02
03
04
05
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
PHOTO CREDIT: NICK BOOKELAAR
PUBLIC APPEARANCES & 
PRESENTATIONS
Through our presence at relevant conferences, universities and de-
sign fairs, we promote and deepen exchange and collaboration with 
stakeholders, particularly from the fields of sustainability and de-
sign. In 2022, FREITAG employees appeared at 39 events, where they 
explained our values and commitment to the circular economy. This 
was 30% more than in the previous year. As we see it, the highlights 
included:
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
60
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

MEMBERSHIPS AND AFFILIATIONS 
RELEVANT TO SUSTAINABILITY
[GRI 2-28] We can only achieve a circular economy and progress to-
wards sustainability by working with others as a team. And for that 
reason, FREITAG is a member of various political and economic initi-
atives and associations. In a process involving exchange with other 
companies, we are thus committed to cross-sector and socially rele-
vant initiatives.
Collaboration with the sustainability working group of the «Made in 
Zürich Initiative». This association, co-founded by FREITAG, aims to 
boost Zurich’s visibility as a production location and strengthen ur-
ban production companies.
≥ MADEINZUERICH.CH
Collaboration with the «Swiss Textiles» association’s sustainability 
task force. The association comprises around 200 internationally ac-
tive Swiss SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) and aims to 
ensure that the textile industry remains internationally competitive.
≥ SWISSTEXTILES.CH
Member of the «Swiss Cleantech» economic association. The asso-
ciation advocates a climate-friendly economy. All its members have 
signed a nine-point charter that serves as the basis for a vision to 
make Switzerland CO2-neutral by 2050 at the latest.
 ≥ SWISSCLEANTECH.CH
Member of «Circular Economy Switzerland». The network sees itself 
as a platform for coordination and exchange. It uses projects and 
events in pursuit of its goal to provide the impetus for a new, nation-
wide movement towards a circular economy in Switzerland. 
≥ CIRCULAR-ECONOMY-SWIZERLAND.CH
Member of the «SBA 2030 Alliance» (Swiss Boards for Agenda 2030). 
The alliance pursues the goal of anchoring sustainability, and in par-
ticular the UN's «Sustainable Development Goals», as a priority in 
the administrative boards of Swiss companies.
≥ SBA2030.CH
Part of the steering committee of the «Sustainable Leaders Initia-
tive». The Initiative aims to ensure that Swiss executives have the 
resources needed for a balanced ecological transition.
≥ SUSTAINABLELEADERS.CH 
Part of the «Circular Globe» advisory committee. The eponymous 
assessment process is a guideline and model for evaluating the cir-
cular maturity of organizations and serves as a compass for them to 
align with the circular economy. [∆ FREITAG – p.12-13]  
≥ CIRCULAR-GLOBE.COM
Voluntary agreement with the «Energy Agency of the Swiss Private 
Sector» on targets to save energy. The Agency helps SMEs to imple-
ment energy efficiency and CO2 reduction measures. 
≥ ENAW.CH
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
61
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

FACTORY TOURS
Regular factory tours give visitors an insight into FREITAG production 
and show school classes, associations and other interested parties 
how truck tarps are turned into bags with due consideration for so-
cial and ecological issues. For this, FREITAG employees from all sec-
tors regularly conduct tours through the production departments in 
the Nœrd industrial complex. A small fee is charged for the tours in 
the sense of a cost-covering contribution. 
In 2022, in the course of 98 guided tours, we gave over 1,900 partici-
pants an idea of how we think and act. This represents an increase of 
107% over the previous year, and also exceeds the pre-Corona pan-
demic figures. To help us go on improving the offer in the future, par-
ticipants provide feedback in an automated survey that now takes 
place after the tours. ≥ FREITAG.CH/NOERD
  FACTS & HIGHLIGHTS 2022
PHOTO CREDIT: JOËL TETTAMANTI
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
62
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

A significant step in our efforts to inspire and encourage the transfer of expertise is a new 
focus on the FREITAG website regarding our mission and the Circularity Roadmap. We originally 
planned to do this as early as 2022, but its implementation was delayed due to a comprehen-
sive website project.
To help us identify and respond to our customers’ current needs and expectations, our
customer loyalty program – the «F-ederation» – features a survey. The survey focuses on how 
FREITAG is perceived in terms of sustainability and circularity as well as the use of our prod-
ucts and services. 
In order to further strengthen the spirit of cooperative partnership relating to the development 
of business models for the circular tarp project, a roundtable involving project partners from all 
over Europe is held at FREITAG headquarters. 
At Milan Design Week and Zurich Design Week, we share insights into ongoing development 
projects and seek an active dialogue with our design-interested community. 
01
OUTLOOK 2023
02
03
04
PLANNED MEASURES
With the publication of the first FREITAG 
Impact Report for the year 2021, we are lay-
ing the foundation for transparent commu-
nication regarding our goals and progress 
as regards sustainability and the circular 
economy. To this end, we are conducting a 
stakeholder and materiality analysis and 
consolidating the company-wide sustaina-
bility metrics.
Further milestones for strengthening the 
dialogue with our stakeholders are the 
realization of a new focus on the FREITAG 
website on circularity and the conception 
of a regular communication format.
01
ACHIEVEMENT OF TARGETS 
IN 2022
02
PLANNED MEASURES
STATUS
MEASURES IMPLEMENTED
see FACTS &
HIGHLIGHTS 2022:
∆ MATERIALITY ASSESSMENT  
  p.9
∆ FREITAG STAKEHOLDERS
  p.56
 
-
TARGET 
ACHIEVED
TARGET
NOT 
ACHIEVED
  ACHIEVEMENT OF TARGETS IN 2022 + OUTLOOK 2023
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
63
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
64
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
40
APPENDIX
FREITAG

APPENDIX
Bag Design
In addition to classic product design, we also consider cutting tarps to be design work: Our bag designers create every FREITAG bag individually, using their stencils and knives to cut the 
most beautiful motifs out of the tarps. For more see  ≥ FREITAG.CH/PRODUCTION.
CemRRV
The Swiss Chemicals Risk Reduction Ordinance (ChemRRV) is part of Swiss chemicals legislation based on various laws and ordinances. Swiss chemicals law is essentially in sync with 
European Union regulations but is developed and applied autonomously. Its general provisions are set out in Federal Council ordinances, which include the CemRRV.
Cradle to Cradle
A play on the phrase «cradle to grave», Cradle to Cradle is an approach to product and system design that seeks to recreate nature’s closed cycles in industry. Essentially, all the raw
materials that go into a product should remain 100% in the cycle at the end of its service life and be reusable. 
Circularity
Materials, products, (eco)systems and organizations that satisfy circular economy principles are considered circular. To ensure that products have a maximum service life and can even-
tually be recycled, aspects of the circular economy must be considered at the design stage. For products to use a minimum of resources, last as long as possible, be modular and repaira-
ble, and dismantle easily, they must be designed and manufactured accordingly. The choice of materials is also crucial; the aim is to use separable, safe and recyclable materials as far as 
possible. The use of chemicals harmful to the environment or health should be avoided throughout the entire process. Also central to the concept of a circular economy is renewable ener-
gy. Energy should also be used as efficiently and sparingly as possible. Apart from the choice of materials, product design and processing, successful take-back and sustainable demand 
for recyclable materials are ultimately relevant to the issue of true circularity. See also recyclability.
Circular economy
A circular economy is a comprehensive approach that considers the entire material and product cycle: from the extraction of raw materials, intelligent design, sustainable production and 
extended service life through to multiple recycling. The circular economy aims to replace the linear production processes that are still widespread. In a linear economic system, raw mate-
rials are depleted, and products are manufactured, sold, consumed and discarded. In a circular economy, on the other hand, products and materials are kept in circulation. So, compared 
with a linear economic system, significantly fewer raw materials are used and less waste produced. The circular economy distinguishes between biological and technical cycles. In the 
former, materials of biological or organic origin should be utilized materially or fermented as far as possible after use and thus flow back into nature as nutrients. In the technical cycle, 
the useful life of products is increased by allowing them to be shared, reused, repaired, and reprocessed in ways that maintain their quality over multiple life cycles. To preserve material 
integrity as far as possible, products are only sent for recycling when they can no longer be used. But recycling is an energy-intensive process, involves the occasional use of additives and 
diminishes the quality of the original material. For these reasons, extending the product life is generally preferable to recycling.
Disassembly
In the process of becoming unique FREITAG products, discarded truck tarps must first be stripped of eyelets, straps, belts, and anything else that cannot be used in a FREITAG bag. They 
are then cut to a standard size of 2.5 meters to fit into our industrial washing machines. For more, see  ≥ FREITAG.CH/PRODUCTION.
Downstream transport
and distribution
This category pertains to emissions generated during the year under review by vehicles and facilities not owned or controlled by the reporting company and created through the
transport and distribution of products sold. For example, they include the emissions generated by transport from our online sales partners to FREITAG customers, but not outbound
logistics purchased by third parties. See also Upstream transport.
ESG 
ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) stands for operational obligations in environmental, social and responsible corporate governance.
GLOSSARY
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
65
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY

Extrusion
Extrusion is a molding process used primarily for thermoplastics. The plastic is pressed as a viscous mass under high pressure and temperature through a die with the desired shape.
This creates a body of almost any length, which can be further processed into a finished product.
Greenhouse Gas Protocol
The GHG (Greenhouse Gas) Protocol is a private transnational set of accounting standards for greenhouse gas emissions. It is the most widely used and accepted standard for drawing
up greenhouse gas audits.
GRI
The GRI (Global Reporting Initiative) is an independent, international organization that helps companies and other organizations take responsibility for their ecological impact by provid-
ing them with a globally understood language to communicate that impact. GRI provides the world's most widely used sustainability reporting standards: the GRI Standards. This docu-
ment refers to selected GRI Standards: See GRI references in the body of the text and the GRI Index.
Lead Link / Rep Link
In holacracy, the leadership of a circle is divided between two roles, known as the Lead Link and the Rep Link. While the Lead Link carries the information and the overall strategy into the 
circle, the Rep Link is responsible for carrying the circle’s needs to the outside world.
One-off / unique / patina
Every FREITAG product is a one-off, i.e., unique: no two items have the same tarp cut-out and character. After an average of six years on the road, discarded truck tarps show different 
signs of wear and have their own individual patina. After the washing cycle, our bag designers get to work cutting as many unique pieces as possible, each more beautiful than the next, 
from a single tarp. See also Bag Design.
Open election
Open election is one of the principles of sociocracy, a form of governance. Persons for specific functions are determined according to defined requirements and following an open ex-
change of arguments based on the principle of consent. The election process succeeds with appropriately trained moderation.
PET
The abbreviation for polyethylene terephthalate, it is thermoplastic polyurethane. PET is used, among other things, to produce plastic bottles, films and textile fibers.
PVC
Abbreviation for polyvinyl chloride. PVC is a thermoplastic and is divided into rigid and flexible PVCs. Rigid PVC, for example, is used to make window frames, pipes and vinyl records
Soft PVC contains plasticizers, which give materials a certain elasticity. It is used, for example, for cable sheathing, flooring and in today's truck tarps. PVC is highly robust and durable. 
However, some of the additives used, such as plasticizers and heavy metals, can have a harmful effect on human beings and the environment. For this reason, FREITAG has a testing and 
triage process for its tarps in place.
REACH Regulation
REACH is a European Union regulation enacted to give improved protection to human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemicals while increasing th
competitiveness of the EU chemical industry.
Recycling
Recycling describes the direct reuse of discarded products and the reuse of their constituents, i.e., the extraction of raw materials from waste. Material recycling means converting a 
product or component into its basic materials or substances and reprocessing it into new materials. These secondary raw materials are called recyclates or reclaims. After recycling, the 
secondary raw material is used again in the same product. It means that the quality of the recyclate must meet the quality requirements of the original product. Recycling is a central ele-
ment of the circular economy. See also Circular economy/Circularity.
  APPENDIX
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
66
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY

Repair Station
As the name suggests, a Repair Station is where to take FREITAG products needing repair. In many cases, this occurs in FREITAG Stores, where owners can hand in the products they wish 
to have repaired. However, some Repair Stations are located outside the F-Stores with selected repair partners.
Recyclability
Recyclability refers to the ease of recycling a material in practice and on a large scale. Increasing recyclability is a key element of the circular economy. See also Circular economy/
Circularity and Recycling.
RSL
A Restricted Substance List (RSL) is used to exclude or restrict specific chemical residues on (finished) products, i.e., chemicals with which consumers may come into contact when
using an item. Restrictions may be based on government regulations, toxicological data, proprietary or brand-specific requirements, and industry initiatives. Restricted substance lists 
help companies comply with legislation and standards set by initiatives, regulate their supply chains, prevent recalls, and help protect consumers, workers, and the environment.
Scope 1, 2 and 3
According to the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, emissions are divided into direct and indirect emissions, which are reported in the following three scopes:
≥ Scope 1: Direct emissions from energy and heat generation in company-owned facilities (e.g., vehicle fleet or boilers in the building)
≥ Scope 2: Indirect emissions from energy sourced elsewhere (e.g., district heating or purchased electricity)
≥ Scope 3: Indirect emissions from third parties (e.g., business travel, waste recycling, commuting, production and distribution)
See also Greenhouse Gas Protocol.
Supply chain
A supply chain is a multi-level network of companies involved in various processes and activities from the first stage of the value chain, i.e., the procurement of raw materials, through to 
the final product and on to the delivery of the product to the end customer.
The Science Based Targets
initiative (SBTi) 
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a global body enabling businesses to set ambitious emissions reductions targets in line with the latest climate science. It is focused on
accelerating companies across the world to halve emissions before 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions before 2050. The initiative is a collaboration between Carbon Disclosure Project 
(CDP), the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).
Upcycling
Upcycling is the process of giving a discarded item a new lease of life. In this form of recycling or reuse, waste or seemingly useless materials are transformed into products that are like
new. In contrast to downcycling, the material's value is increased.
Upstream transport
and distribution
Emissions in this category include those generated by the transport and distribution of purchased products between a company's Tier 1 suppliers and its own facilities in vehicles not 
owned or operated by the reporting company. They also include third-party transport and distribution services purchased by the reporting company (either directly or through an interme-
diary). These extend to inbound and outbound logistics (e.g., products sold) and third-party transport and distribution between the company's own facilities. At FREITAG, for example, this 
means purchased outbound logistics for FREITAG products sold to our end customers, i.e., international shipping by UPS. See also Downstream transport.
  APPENDIX
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
67
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY

APPENDIX
GRI Standard
Page
Chapter
GRI 2: General Disclosures 2021
2-1
Organizational details
07, 85
FREITAG, IMPRINT
2-2
Entities included in the organization’s sustaina-
bility reporting
85
IMPRINT
2-3
Reporting period, frequency and contact point
85
IMPRINT
2-4
Restatements of information
85
IMPRINT
2-5
External assurance
85
IMPRINT
Activities and employees
2-6
Activities, value chain and other business rela-
tionships
07
FREITAG
2-7
Employees
75
APPENDIX
Governance
2-9
Governance structure and composition
08, 16
FREITAG, CIRCULAR
F-CREW
Statement of use
FREITAG Group has reported the information  
cited in this GRI content index for the period 
01.01.2022 to 31.12.2022 with reference to the  
GRI Standards.
GRI 1 used
GRI 1: Foundation 2021
Applicable GRI Sector Standard(s)
none
GRI INDEX
GRI Standard
Page
Chapter
2-10
Nomination and selection of the highest govern-
ance body
08
FREITAG
2-11
Chair of the highest governance body
08
FREITAG
2-12
Role of the highest governance body in overseeing 
the management of impacts
08
FREITAG
2-13
Delegation of responsibility for managing impacts
08
FREITAG
2-14
Role of the highest governance body in sustaina-
bility reporting
08
FREITAG
2-20
Process to determine remuneration
19
CIRCULAR F-CREW
Strategy
2-22
Statement on sustainable development strategy
03
PREFACE
2-28
Membership associations
61
CIRCULAR 
COMMUNITY
Stakeholder engagement
2-29
Approach to stakeholder engagement
56, 70
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY, 
APPENDIX
GRI 3: Material Topics 2021
3-1
Process to determine material topics
09
FREITAG
3-2
List of material topics
09, 73, 
74
FREITAG, APPENDIX
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
68
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY

APPENDIX
GRI Standard
Page
Chapter
GRI 301: Materials 2016
3-3
Management of material topics
25
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
301-1
Materials used by weight or volume
31
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS 
301-2
Recycled input materials used
31, 77
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS, 
APPENDIX
GRI 302: Energy 2016
3-3
Management of material topics
35
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
302-1
Energy consumption within the organization
39, 80
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS, 
APPENDIX
GRI 303: Water and Effluents 2018
3-3
Management of material topics
35
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
303-5
Water consumption
45, 80
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS, 
APPENDIX
GRI 305: Emissions 2016
3-3
Management of material topics
35
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
305-1
Direct (Scope 1) GHG emissions
38, 79
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS, 
APPENDIX
305-2
Energy indirect (Scope 2) GHG emissions
38, 79
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS, 
APPENDIX
305-3
Other indirect (Scope 3) GHG emissions
38, 79
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS, 
APPENDIX
GRI 306: Waste 2020
3-3
Management of material topics
35
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
GRI Standard
Page
Chapter
306-3
Waste generated
41, 80
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS, 
APPENDIX
GRI 401: Employment 2016
3-3
Management of material topics
15
CIRCULAR F-CREW
401-1
New employee hires and employee turnover
75
APPENDIX
GRI 403: Occupational Health and Safety 2016
3-3
Management of material topics
15
CIRCULAR F-CREW
403-6
Promotion of worker health
22
CIRCULAR F-CREW
GRI 404: Training and Education 2016
3-3
Management of material topics
15
CIRCULAR F-CREW
404-2
Programs for upgrading employee skills and tran-
sition assistance programs
20
CIRCULAR F-CREW
GRI 405: Diversity and Equal Opportunity 2016
3-3
Management of material topics
15, 20
CIRCULAR F-CREW
405-1
Diversity of governance bodies and employees
20
CIRCULAR F-CREW
405-2
Ratio of basic salary and remuneration of women 
to men
20
CIRCULAR F-CREW
GRI 415: Public Policy 2016
3-3
Management of material topics
55
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
415-1
Political contributions
57
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
69
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY

IDENTIFIED STAKEHOLDERS AND EXPECTATIONS
Main groups 
Identified stakeholders
Identified expectations
Shareholders
Founders / Owners
Orientation towards circular economy, increase in company value, sustainable development, health and safety of employees, supply chain and consumers,
positive impact on immediate environment, transparency, continuous improvement 
Subsidiary groups
National subsidiaries
Stability, clear goals and communication, proper payroll processing, consultation on market-related issues, guidance and support
Nœrd Canteen
bring consuming employees to canteen, organizational support
Employees
Employees, Nœrd 
Secure workplace, fair pay, transparency, internal communication, consultation on important issues, physical and mental health, company reputation, sense of 
purpose, development opportunities, benefits, psychological safety, corporate culture, accessibility of meetings/content
Employees, international 
Suppliers and 
production 
companies
Direct suppliers of tarp
Partnership with FREITAG, profit from sale of old tarpaulins, convenience of disposal
Tarp agents
Long-term cooperation, sales, constant purchase quantities, fair prices, transparent information in the event of process changes, work safety-related support, 
training sessions for optimum quality
Textile suppliers
Constant order quantities/orders, sales, fair prices and negotiation tactics, realistic deadlines, development of new sustainable materials with FREITAG as
partner, communication flow and transparency, sustainable customer for portfolio
Accessories suppliers
Producers / Sewing
Long-term cooperation, sales, guaranteed quantities/annual planning, punctual delivery and high quality of materials to be sewn, support in dealing with signs 
of use on tarpaulins, fair prices, punctual payments, safety at work, support in implementing the Code of Conduct
[GRI 2-29] At FREITAG, interaction with stakeholders is typically role-
based and project-oriented but is not systematically recorded. The first 
Impact Report closed this gap with the first-ever broad-based stake-
holder analysis, begun in late 2021 and completed in 2022. It included 
an inventory of internal expertise and selected interviews with experts. 
In all, the analysis identified 32 stakeholders and listed typical repre-
sentatives, characterization, forms of interaction and expectations, as 
well as the added value of the existing exchange. Ultimately, compar-
ing the internal inventory with external expert interviews showed that 
FREITAG had built a comprehensive picture of its stakeholders and was 
aware of their expectations even without elaborate dialog formats. In 
the future, the aim will be to confirm these initial findings by selective-
ly expanding the dialog.   [∆ CIRCULAR COMMUNITY – p.56]
  APPENDIX
STAKEHOLDER ANALYSIS
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FREITAG
40

Main groups 
Identified stakeholders
Identified expectations
Distribution
partnerships
Distribution partners
(wholesale)
Sales/margin, lead time for communication, provision of good products (color mix), information flow and transparency, attractive communication materials, 
personal advice/support from FREITAG, speed of deliveries, shared values 
Franchise partners
(F-Store by)
Project and business 
partnerships
Event partners
FREITAG brand as program content (keynotes), product sponsorship, Nœrd production hall as event location
Innovation partners Product/
material development
Transparency and credibility, common goal/vision, marketable product, development of new customers/communities, sales, image transfer, positioning as a
sustainable/circular company
B2B product cooperation 
Image transfer, interest in Swiss brand and sustainable design product
End customers
FREITAG customers
Products: Individuality, durability, ecological production, recycled material, wearing comfort, practical interior, fair price, harmlessness/safety of products // 
Brand: transparency, pioneer of sustainability, Swiss brand // Service and stores: assistance and personal advice, loyalty program, friendly staff without sales 
and time pressure (F-Stores), in-shop experience with sightseeing factor
Young Conscious Urbanites*
Brand: high standard of environmental and social sustainability, complete transparency and credibility, evenly matched collaboration, inspiration and 
identification through shared values, being part of the solution, Purpose // Products: Intelligent design for a circular future
Guurus**
Identification with and participation in the brand, information flow and transparency, simple and understandable communication, functioning work tools/
website, support from Customer Relationship Circle, regular payment of voucher values
Society / General
public
NGO
Compliance, transparency and credibility, willingness to talk about critical issues, collaborative approach/knowledge partnership, relevant content for
campaigns or best practice examples
Press
Transparent communication on projects and production, information, key figures and statements 
Universities, schools
Requests for presentations, talks, factory tours and support for student research projects
Museums
Contents and loans for exhibitions
Local population
Neighboring stores: Noise emission during events / tenants Nœrd: Production-related noise and odor emissions
  APPENDIX
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10
15
20
25
30
35
45
71
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CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

Main groups 
Identified stakeholders
Identified expectations
Government
Authorities CH
Regulatory/legislative compliance, transparency, data protection, meeting deadlines, tax revenues, industry/SME feedback when drafting proposals 
International authorities
Municipality / City
Regulatory/legislative compliance, transparency, tax revenue, site enhancement/development, industrial and creative jobs, low emissions, commitment to
local initiatives
Economic
protagonists
Peers / Leading sustainable 
brands 
Inspiration and knowledge sharing, collabs
Trade associations 
Requests for presentations, talks, Nœrd-guided tours, insights on business case production location CH, design and sustainability, holacracy/new work,
participation/membership, inspiration and knowledge exchange, brand image transfer
Service companies
Certifiers, external auditors
Transparency and credibility, compliance, information flow, data quality, adherence to deadlines, demand for continuous improvement
Location renters
Attractiveness and visibility of the building, tenants with charisma/media presence, revitalization of the building through activities (association for more
«Nœrdability»)
Insurances
Compliance, transparency, support and sparring
Banks 
Compliance, transparency, support and sparring
*YOUNG CONSCIOUS URBANITES: AN INSPIRATIONAL NETWORK THAT SHARES THE VISION AND VALUES OF FREITAG. 
**GUURUS: LONG-TIME FREITAG CUSTOMERS WHO PROVIDE USERS OF THE FREITAG WEBSITE WITH PEER-TO-PEER SUPPORT.
  APPENDIX
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5
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CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

[GRI 3-2] MATERIALITY ASSESSMENT FOR IMPACT REPORT 2021 (CARRIED OUT 2022)
Topic
Internal
External
Management approach
SDG
very material
01 Fair production
16.5
15.0
Circular Operations:
Sustainable supply chain
8 Decent Work &
Economic Growth
02 Circular
materials
15.0
15.0
Circular Products: Product
development strategy and
materials
12 Responsible
Consumption &
Production
03 Circular design
15.5
13.0
Circular Products: Product
development strategy
12 Responsible
Consumption &
Production
04 Carbon footprint 
& waste
14.0
11.0
Circular Operations: roadmap 
to net-zero with 1.5-degree 
short-term emissions reduc-
tion target, operational waste
13 Climate Action
12 Responsible
Consumption &
Production
05 Transparency
16.0
9.0
Circular Community
12 Responsible
Consumption &
Production
06 Recycled
materials
14.0
8.0
Circular Products:
Product development strategy, 
Materials
12 Responsible
Consumption &
Production
13 Climate Action
Topic
Internal
External
Management approach
SDG
material
07 Life-extending
services
15.0
5.0
Circular Services
12 Responsible
Consumption &
Production
08 Brand 
performance 
12.5
5.0
Circular Community
12 Responsible
Consumption &
Production
09 Health & safety
14.5
1.0
Circular F-Crew: Health &  
occupational safety
8 Decent Work &
Economic Growth
10 End-of-life 
solutions
13.0
3.0
Circular Services
Circular Operations:
Operational waste
12 Responsible
Consumption &
Production
11 Economic
performance
12.5
1.0
not public 
8 Decent Work &
Economic Growth
12 Compliance
13.5
1.0
Circular Operations
8 Decent Work &
Economic Growth
13 Diversity & 
Inclusion
12.0
3.0
Circular F-Crew
5 Gender Equality
8 Decent Work &
Economic Growth
MATERIALITY ASSESSMENT
  APPENDIX
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20
25
30
35
45
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CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

APPENDIX
 CIRCULAR GLOBE RESULTS
Dimension
Points
2021
2022
2021 > 2022
Preparedness
125
150
+20.0%
Direction
152
177
+16.4%
Execution
128
154
+20.3%
Results
100
119
+19.0%
Total
505
600
+18.8%
Level
Fundamental
Advanced
 CIRCULAR MATURITY BY CATEGORY
2021
2022
2021 > 2022
A1
CE analysis
50%
60%
+20.0%
A2
Planning
50%
55%
+10.0%
A3
Implementation
55%
77%
+40.0%
A4
Monitoring & measurement
25%
35%
+40.0%
A5
Leadership
65%
75%
+15.4%
A6
Collaboration
50%
55%
+10.0%
A7
Improvement & communication
55%
60%
+9.1%
B1
Systemic approach
60%
60%
0.0%
B2
Stakeholders
20%
40%
+100.0%
B3
Business model
70%
75%
+7.1%
Topic
Internal
External
Management approach
SDG
material
14 Circular expertise
12.5
1.0
Circular F-Crew
4 Quality Education
15 Transportation
12.0
2.0
Circular Operations: gaining 
importance with roadmap to 
net-zero
13 Climate Action
16 Packaging
12.5
2.0
Circular Operations: no focus 
topic
12 Responsible
Consumption &
Production
13 Climate Action
rather material
17 Access over
Ownership
11.0
3.0
Circular Services: no focus 
topic
12 Responsible
Consumption &
Production
18 Partnerships
10.5
3.0
Circular Community
17 Partnerships
for the goal
DATA TABLES
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0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
74
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

[GRI 2-7] EMPLOYEES
2020
2021
2022
2021 > 2022
Total number of full-time employees
n. a.
200
205
+2.5%
Number of employees [headcount]
n. a.
242
257
+6.2%
women
n. a.
117
129
+10.3%
men
n. a.
125
128
+2.4%
Permanent contracts [headcount]
n. a.
n. a.
222
n. a.
Average length of service in years
n. a.
5.9
4.8
-18.6%
Number of apprentices and interns
n. a.
18
12
-33.3%
Number of employees at top of salary scale*
n. a.
39
39
0.0%
women
n. a.
17
18
+5.9%
men
n. a.
22
21
-4.5%
Number of employees by role
Company Leader
n. a.
5
5
0.0%
women
n. a.
3
3
0.0%
men
n. a.
2
2
0.0%
Strategist
n. a.
11
13
+18.2%
women
n. a.
6
6
0.0%
men
n. a.
5
7
+40.0%
Lead Link
n. a.
23
23
0.0%
women
n. a.
12
11
-8.3%
men
n. a.
11
12
+9.1%
Rep Link
n. a.
23
24
+4.3%
women
n. a.
12
13
+8.3%
men
n. a.
11
11
0.0%
[GRI 401-1] Number of new appointments
n. a.
36
70
+94.4%
women
n. a.
12
41
+241.7%
men
n. a.
24
29
+20.8%
Number of resignations
n. a.
42
58
+38.1%
women
n. a.
25
32
+28.0%
men
n. a.
17
26
+52.9%
[GRI 401-1] Fluctuation rate in %
n. a.
18%
21%
+13.4%
among women
n. a.
23%
25%
+8.7%
among men
n. a.
14%
17%
+20.1%
Average number of days training/further training 
per employee
n. a.
n. a.
n. a.
n. a.
Number of employees by country
Switzerland
n. a.
176
185
+5.1%
Germany
n. a.
16
24
+50.0%
Japan
n. a.
19
17
-10.5%
Netherlands
n. a.
11
9
-18.2%
South Korea
n. a.
4
7
+75.0%
Italy
n. a.
6
6
0.0%
Austria
n. a.
6
4
-33.3%
China
n. a.
3
4
+33.3%
Singapore
n. a.
1
1
0.0%
*SINCE A HOLACRATIC ORGANIZATION HAS NO MANAGEMENT IN THE CLASSICAL SENSE, THE HIGHEST WAGE LEVEL
(TOP OF SALARY SCALE) IS USED AS A REFERENCE VALUE.
  APPENDIX
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10
15
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30
35
45
75
5
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CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

WORK AND HEALTH PROTECTION
2020
2021
2022
2021 > 2022
[GRI 403-9] Absence rate in days per employee
n. a.
14.7
13.7
-7.1%
Number of serious accidents
n. a.
0
0
0.0%
Accident rate (accidents per 100 employees)
n. a.
1.0%
1.8%
 +78.2%
 EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION
Scale 1-7
2020
2021*
2022
2020 > 2022
satisfied - very satisfied (5-7)
67%
n. a.
59%
-11.9%
neutral (4-6)
18%
n. a.
16%
-11.1%
dissatisfied - rather dissatisfied (1-3)
14%
n. a.
23%
+64.3%
no indication
1%
n. a.
2%
+100.00%
Average (1-7)
4.9
n. a.
4.7
-4.1%
*THE EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION SURVEY IS CONDUCTED EVERY 2-3 YEARS. 
  APPENDIX
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10
15
20
25
30
35
45
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CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

APPENDIX
 MATERIAL CONSUMPTION [KG]
Material Input
2020
2021
2022
2021 > 2022
Natural fibers
336
0
0
0.0%
Recycled*
15,272
5,137
12,923
+151.6%
B-stock**
38,064
4,458
32,941
+638.9%
New***
63,517
20,756
42,427
+104.4%
Upcycling (used truck tarp)****
291,668
238,074
276,714
+16.2%
Total
408,521
268,425
365,005
+36.0%
* RECYCLED CONTENT IN RECYCLED MATERIALS (EXCL. TARP)
** AIRBAGS, BICYCLE INNER TUBES AND SEAT BELTS
*** NEW GOODS SUCH AS BUCKLES, ZIPPERS, ETC. BUT ALSO SHARE OF NEW GOODS IN RECYCLED MATERIALS.
**** USABLE MATERIAL (EXCL. WASTE, QUALITY PROBLEMS, ETC.)
FROM 2021 ONLY THE TOTAL QUANTITY OF TARPS ACTUALLY PROCESSED IS STILL TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT, WHEREAS IN THE PREVIOUS YEARS THE 
TOTAL QUANTITY OF TARPS PURCHASED WAS RECORDED.
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
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0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
77
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

LOCATIONS AND VOLUMES SEWING PARTNERS 
Location of sewing 
partners (producers)
2020
2021
2022
2021 > 2022
Bulgaria
n.a.
68%
67%
-2.5%
Portugal
n.a.
20%
20%
2.4%
Czech Republic
n.a.
8%
9%
12.0%
Others*
(CH, RO, TN, PL)
n.a.
4%
4%
7.2%
 LOCATIONS AND VOLUMES OF DISASSEMBLY
Location of disas-
sembly (via agents)
2020
2021
2022
2021 > 2022
Netherlands
n.a.
16%
24%
51.9%
UK
n.a.
25%
22%
-11.2%
Denmark
n.a.
16%
12%
-25.6%
Germany
n.a.
9%
10%
11.1%
Switzerland**
n.a.
9%
10%
8.9%
Poland
n.a.
14%
9%
-32.9%
Spain
n.a.
6%
7%
18.3%
Portugal
n.a.
5%
4%
-24.0%
Turkey
n.a.
1%
2%
60.0%
*WE STOPPED WORKING WITH OUR PRODUCERS IN TUNISIA AND POLAND IN 2021. 
**IN SWITZERLAND, TARPS ARE DISASSEMBLED BY FREITAG. 
  APPENDIX
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
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5
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0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
78
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

[GRI 305-1,2,3] EMISSIONS BY CATEGORY [t CO2 eq]
2020
2021
2021 [corr]*
2022
2021 > 2022
Scope 1: Direct energy use per primary source
0.0
13.8
13.8
13.4
-2.7%
Stationary plants
0.0
13.8
13.8
13.8
-2.7%
Mobile plants
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
n. a.
Scope 2: Indirect energy use per primary source
353.9
343.0
343.2
265,6
-22.6%
Power
298.3
286.3
286.3
205.3
-28.3%
Electricity (location-based)**
n. a.
n. a.
n. a.
225.7
n. a.
District heating and cooling
55.6
56.9
56.9
60.4
+6.2%
Scope 3: Other indirect emissions
3,622.1
3,642.7
2,781.8
2,925.3
+5.2%
Purchased goods and services
2,045.4
1,736.1
1,020.5
1,264.9
+23.9%
Capital goods
37.5
25.2
25.2
36.4
+44.4%
Fuel and energy-related activities
94.5
93.7
93.7
36.1
-61.5%
Business travel
16.4
8.9
5.7
31.4
+450.9%
Employee commuting
110.4
127.4
127.4
118.1
-7.3%
Upstream transport and distribution
611.3
759.9
759.9
948.3
+24.8%
Downstream transport and distribution
n. a.
293.2
26.0
28.9
+11.2%
Operational waste
358.3
456.4
456.4
196.1
-57.0%
End-of-life treatment of sold products
238.2
142.0
267.0
265.2
-0.7%
Total
3,976.0
3,999.8
3,138.8
3,204.4
+2.1%
*IN 2022, MORE ACCURATE EMISSION FACTORS AND DATA WERE AVAILABLE FOR THE BALANCING PRO-
CESS. THEREFORE, TO ENSURE COMPARABILITY WITH THE PREVIOUS YEAR, THE 2021 CO2 FOOTPRINT 
WAS RETROACTIVELY CORRECTED.
**NOT A SEPARATE CATEGORY, BUT AN ALTERNATIVE CALCULATION TYPE
  APPENDIX
Greenhouse gas emissions
CO2
N2O
CH4
SF6
HFCS
PFCS
SCOPE 1
DIRECT
SCOPE 3
INDIRECT
SCOPE 3
INDIRECT
UPSTREAM
ACTIVITIES
FREITAG
DOWNSTREAM
ACTIVITIES
Leased 
facilities
Employee 
commuting
Purchased goods/
services
Transport & 
distributions
Fuel/energy 
related
Energy & heat 
generation 
at company 
facilities
Company
vehicles
Purchased 
electricity, 
steam, heat & 
cooling
SCOPE 2
INDIRECT
Business travel
Operational waste
Capital goods
Transport & 
distribution
Processing and 
use of sold 
products
End of life
for products 
Leased 
facilities
Franchises
Investments
 GHG PROTOCOL
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
79
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

[GRI 306-3] WASTE AND DISPOSAL [T]
Type of waste (disposal method)
2020
2021
2022
2021 > 2022
Metal (recycling)
12.7
8.8
4.6
-47.7%
Wood (recycling)
11.7
11.0
8.6
-22.3%
Cardboard (recycling)
21.7
18.6
19.1
+2.7%
General waste incl. tarp
(incineration)
219.8
185.5
126.6
-31.8%
Electrical scrap (recycling)
n.a.
0.4
0.3
-17.5%
Glass (recycling)
n.a.
0.5
0.3
-44.0%
PET (recycling)
0.1
< 0.1
< 0.1
0.0%
Paper (recycling)
0.1
0.2
1.4
+600.0%
Total
266.1
225.0
160.9
-28.5%
 [GRI 303-5] WATER CONSUMPTION [MEGALITER]
2020
2021
2022
2021 > 2022
Nœrd production* (without rainwater)
2.66
1.38
1.89
+37.0%
Nœrd production rainwater**
2.66
1.38
1.91
+38.1%
Stores and offices***
2.63
1.40
4.71
+236.6%
Total (without rainwater)
5.30
2.78
6.60
+137.5%
Total
7.96
4.16
8.51
+104.5%
*EXTRAPOLATION BASED ON NUMBER OF WASHING CYCLES
**THERE ARE NO PRECISE FIGURES FOR RAINWATER IN 2020 AND 2021, SO WE ASSUME AN AVERAGE OF 50% 
FRESHWATER AND 50% RAINWATER. FROM 2022, THE EXACT FIGURE RECORDED WILL BE USED.
***WATER CONSUMPTION IN OFFICES WAS INCLUDED FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 2022; PREVIOUSLY, THIS CATEGORY 
ONLY INCLUDED WATER CONSUMPTION IN STORES. 
 TOTAL TARP WASTE [T]
2020
2021
2022
2021 > 2022
Nœrd
n.a.
n.a.
120.3
n.a.
Agents and disassembly partners
n.a.
n.a.
229.3
n.a.
Producers
n.a.
n.a.
51.9
n.a.
Total
n.a.
n.a.
401.5
n.a.
 [GRI 302-1] ENERGY CONSUMPTION [MWH]
2020
2021
2022
2021 > 2022
Scope 1 - Direct energy consumption
(stationary combustion)
n.a.
75.6
66.5
-12.0%
Gas heating as the only source
n.a.
75.6
66.5
-12.0%
Scope 2 - Indirect energy consumption
n.a.
1,312.7
1,343.8
+2.4%
thereof renewable electricity
n.a.
399.6
502.9
+25.9%
thereof conventional electricity
n.a.
522.7
375.5
-28.2%
thereof district heating
n.a.
390.4
465.4
+19.2%
Total
n.a.
1,388.3
1,410.3
+1.6%
 UPSTREAM TRANSPORTATION AND PURCHASED OUTBOUND LOGISTICS - DISTRIBUTION [TKM]
2020
2021
2022
2021 > 2022
Air freight
1,807,700
569,899
1,101,646
+93.3%
Road
165,783
1,074,087
1,855,606
+72.8%
Rail
320,880
1,664
2,000
+20.2%
Shipping freight
456,688
387,250
89,167
-77.0%
Total
2,751,235
2,032,902
3,048,418
+50.0%
  APPENDIX
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
80
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40

USED SERVICES IN ANNUAL COMPARISON
2020
2021
2022
2021 > 2022
Repair
Repaired bags
6,391
5,473
7,011
+28.1%
S.W.A.P.
Active bags
5,203
4,061
2,651
-34.7%
Matches between bags
3,409
7,626
6,784
-11.0%
Bags exchanged online*
112
14
3
-78.6%
Bags exchanged event
40
46
198
+330.4%
Loans
#gonewithfreitag / #ridewithfreitag
164
124
n.a.**
n.a.
Take-Back
Returned products
n.a.
n.a.
0
n.a.
Total of services used
6,707
5,657
7,212
+27.5%
Product-related services used in
relation to products sold
1.26%
1.28%
1,32%
+3.0%
* FIGURES INCOMPLETE DUE TO EXCHANGES NOT BEING REPORTED BACK VIA THE PLATFORM
**NOT CARRIED OUT 
 
  APPENDIX
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
81
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES AND REACH OF VALUES-BASED COMMUNICATION
2020
2021
2022
2021 > 2022
Community
Number of public appearances 
and presentations on sustaina-
bility and circularity
16
30
39
+30.0%
Number of participants in
guided tours of the FREITAG
factory*
732
920
1902
+106.7%
Reach [bn]**
Values-based
communication***
4.9
3.9
2.2
-43.5%
* TOURS IN 2020 AND 2021 ESTIMATED, BASED ON PAID TOURS AND AVERAGE NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS.
FROM 2022 EXACT DATA.
 ** REACH INCLUDES PAID, OWNED AND EARNED, WHERE EARNED FIGURES CANNOT SHOW PRECISE READERSHIP FIGURES
BUT ONLY THE POTENTIAL REACH OF MEDIA CONTRIBUTIONS. SINCE OWNED FIGURES ARE NOT AVAILABLE FOR SEVERAL 
PRIORITIZED CHANNELS (E.G. LINKEDIN, TIKTOK), THE REACH FIGURES ARE ONLY OF LIMITED SIGNIFICANCE.
*** BY VALUES-BASED COMMUNICATION, WE MEAN ALL COMMUNICATION ACTIVITIES IN WHICH WE CONVEY FREITAG
CORPORATE VALUES (E.G. PURPOSE, CULTURE, THE MANIFESTO).
  APPENDIX
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
82
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

STAKEHOLDER DIALOGUE: MEASURES 2022
Strategic focus
Riskmitigation through monitoring and
relationship work
Corporate Responsibility through dialogue and 
surveys
Innovation und inspiration through knowledge-
sharing formats
Stakeholders
Owners
Customers
Young Conscious Urbanites
NGO
Press
Authorities CH & International
Municipality / City
Trade associations
Certifiers / external auditors
Owners
National subsidiaries & Nœrd canteen
Employees
Tarp agents
Producers
Franchise partners
Customers
NGO
Press
Authorities CH & International
Municipality / City
National Subsidiaries
Employees 
Distribution partners
Franchise partners 
Event partners
Innovation partners in product/material develop-
ment
Customers
Young Conscious Urbanites
Guurus
Universities / schools
Museums
Peers / Leading sustainable brands
Trade associations 
Characterization
High power
High legitimacy
High interest & high diversity of perspectives
Measures 2022
≥ Ongoing monitoring and relationship manage-
ment via Sustainability & Compliance Officer role
≥ New role: Risk Scientist
EMPLOYEES
≥ Repeated employee satisfaction survey 
≥ FAQ Meetings before F-Rules adjustments
≥ Six F-Crew meetings for a general, company-wide 
exchange of information
PRODUCERS
≥ Dialogue with producers on environmental and 
social issues
≥ Support and participation of existing events 
≥ 39 appearances & presentations on sustainability 
and circularity
≥ Numerous memberships relevant to
sustainability
≥ Community events in F-Stores on repair
(Repair Collab Events and S.W.A.P. Friday Events) 
  APPENDIX
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
83
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

Stratetic Focus
Riskmitigation through monitoring and
relationship work
Corporate Responsibility through dialogue and 
surveys
Innovation und inspiration through knowledge-
sharing formats
Measures 2022
CUSTOMERS
≥ Expansion of 24/7 customer services for Asian
time zone
≥ Material transparency in the Online Store
≥ Feedback form for factory tour participants
≥ Ongoing optimizations of the loyalty program
(F-ederation) and community relationship management
DISTRIBUTION PARTNERS
≥ New platform for distribution and franchise partners 
to process orders more efficiently and enable better in-
formation flow
≥ First publication of the Impact Report with 
a call for knowledge-sharing through various 
communication activities
  APPENDIX
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
84
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES

IMPRINT
ABOUT THIS REPORT
[GRI 2-2,3] 
Current reporting period: 01.01.2022 - 31.12.2022 
Reporting cycle: annual
Publication date: 27.09.2023 
Contact for questions about the report:  
IMPACT@FREITAG.CH
The report covers the FREITAG Group, i.e. the FREITAG lab. ag with its 
headquarters in Zurich (significant operational site) and its national 
subsidiaries in Germany, Austria, the USA, Japan, Italy, Korea, China, 
the UK and the Netherlands. [∆ FREITAG – p.7]
The FREITAG Impact Report reports with reference to selected GRI 
Standards. [∆ APPENDIX – p.68]
[GRI 2-5] The report is not audited by an external body, but is approved 
by the Administrative Board as the group’s supreme controlling body. 
 
  APPENDIX
PROJECT LEAD & EDITORIAL:
Danila Helfenstein (FREITAG) 
CONCEPT:
Bigna Salzmann and Danila Helfenstein (FREITAG)
NEW STANDARD.S 
LAYOUT:
Johannes Ammler (FREITAG)
NEW STANDARD.S
Christoph Ohanian 
CREATIVE DIRECTION:
Golo Schmeh (FREITAG)
[GRI 2-4] The following data had to be retroactively adjusted for the 
Impact Report 2022: 
≥	
Number of employees [HQ] and highest pay grade by gender for
	
2021: Some employee data for 2021 were collected at different
	
dates. For comparability, the numbers of employees [HQ] were 
	
adjusted from 247 to 242, as well as the distribution of 19 
	
women and 20 men to 17 women and 22 men in the highest
	
wage level. [∆ APPENDIX – p.75]
≥	
Carbon emissions for 2021: In 2022, more accurate emission 
	
factors and data were available for the balancing process.
	
To ensure comparability with the previous year, the 2021 CO2 
	
footprint was therefore retroactively corrected from 4,000 t to
	
3,139 t CO2 eq. [∆ CIRCULAR OPERATIONS – p.38]
≥	
Energy consumption for the year 2021: Erroneous figures for 
	
2021 were corrected retroactively and the unit adjusted.
	
[∆ APPENDIX – p.80]
≥	
Operational waste 2021: Thanks to improved data, more
	
accurate proportions for the various types of waste is available 
	
from 2022. These have also been supplemented retrospectively. 
	
[∆ APPENDIX – p.80]
CIRCULAR OPERATIONS
15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
85
5
20
CIRCULAR PRODUCTS
CIRCULAR F-CREW
FREITAG
40
CIRCULAR SERVICES
CIRCULAR COMMUNITY

15
5
10
0
0
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
5
20
40
IMPACT REPORT 2022
BY FREITAG LAB. AG
FREITAG.CH