Ahblo Luxury Knitwear | PORTFOLIO.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine | Volume 2 | Issue 4 | 2024

From the vibrant landscapes of Chile and Peru to the urban charm of Vancouver, Ahblo knitwear is a testament to Raquel Grebler Quesne's family's unique journey.

Spanning from the South to the North of America, the West Coast along the Pacific Ocean has been the Quesne's home for more than a decade, and it is this rich cultural tapestry that inspires every stitch of Ahblo's creations.

Ahblo values ethical production, safe working conditions, and traditional techniques. All of its fair-trade alpaca clothing is designed here in Vancouver, and manufactured in Peru by local artisans who preserve the pre-Inca traditions linked to alpaca fibres day to day.

Working closely with 14 workshops and joining more than 120 families, including approximately 40% women in Arequipa, Cusco, and Lima, Ahblo's primary partner, Peruvian Traditions, implements sustainable and circular fashion procedures recognized by the Global Reporting Initiative.

As part of the Fashion Revolution international movement, Peruvian Traditions values creativity, the environment, and the people equally. They assist Ahblo in sourcing certified high-quality alpaca yarns of known origin that are treated according to international ecological standards and tested for harmful substances.

Peruvian Traditions is a Fair Trade-certified company, pays workers fair wages, promotes sustainable production methods, and fosters positive community development.

Yarn supplier, Michell, has 87+ years of experience processing alpaca fibres, it is a member of the International Alpaca Association.

As a leader in implementing respectful shearing practices and ensuring the care of the alpacas, Michell has been awarded the Responsible Alpaca Standard certification.

Michell complies with international ecological standards and has been awarded the OEKO- TEX 100, Organic Content Standard and Global Organic Textile Standard.

Ahblo's baby alpaca wool pieces are dyed with natural colourants derived from plants or minerals.

Ahblo uses treat flowers and other vegetables, including the Tarwi flower, beetroots, purple corns, achiotes, molles, chilcas, and eucalyptus

By choosing to colour its alpaca fibres the natural way, it eliminates the need for harsh synthetic dyes and reduces pollution and minimizes the use of water and energy in the dyeing process.

IN HER WORDS

"I realized I was an entrepreneur in my late twenties to early thirties. My entrepreneurial journey became prominent when I co-owned and co-directed Grebler Quesne Compañía Limitada, which involved owning various restaurants and a gourmet import and shop in Santiago de Chile from 2011 to 2017.

"This realization was both exciting and challenging. My environment was supportive of entrepreneurial endeavours, as evidenced by my family-run business in Chile. I transitioned from academia to entrepreneurship, blending my philosophical and economic insights with practical business acumen.

"My most memorable experiences in business was managing my restaurants' daily operations and marketing strategies. I have many humorous and heart-warming anecdotes involving navigating the culinary preferences of diverse customers and then becoming friends with some of them. This also taught me the importance of adaptability and customer-centric strategies.

"My journey progressed through a blend of education and practical business ventures. After leaving Chile, I moved to Vancouver in 2018 and pursued a Marketing Management Diploma. "

"My experiences across different continents enriched my understanding of global markets and sustainable practices.

"Moving to Vancouver in 2018 marked a significant life change for me. I travelled extensively, including a four-month trip to Patagonia, Bolivia, and Peru with my husband, daughter, and son. This period was marked by personal growth and new professional opportunities.

"The pivotal moment came when founded Ahblo Luxury Knitwear. The realization of the potential and beauty of Alpaca wool, coupled with my passion for sustainability, confirmed that I was on the right path.

"I pushed Ahblo to the next level by focusing on the ethical sourcing of Alpaca fibres and developing the Alpaca Allure collection. I utilized my marketing expertise to build the brand's presence and highlight Alpaca wool's natural beauty and practicality.

"Family, mentors, and business partners supported my journey. The co-director in Chile, educators, and peers from my academic and professional experiences played crucial roles in believing in my vision and providing support.

"My life is growing with the successful launch of Ahblo's Alpaca Allure collection. My business is moving forward as planned, focusing more on sustainability and luxury. New responsibilities include expanding the brand's market presence and ensuring ethical sourcing

"Ahblo Luxury Knitwear focuses on creating high-quality, ethically sourced knitwear from Alpaca wool.

".The brand offers elegant, comfortable, and sustainable clothing Readers should be interested because Ahblo provides timeless pieces that reflect a commitment to the environment and traditional craftsmanship.

"To get through the next two quarters, Ahblo will accomplish increased brand awareness through focused and specialized campaigns highlighting our unique product and aligning with collaborators and influencers who have strong, loyal followings and a passion for the planet.

"Ahblo has been featured in Vogue Ukraine and aligns with the Holt Renfrew H Project, Net Sustain from Net-A-Porter, and GOOP and would benefit from strategic partnerships with retailers and investment in sustainable production. Financial support for marketing campaigns and expanding the product line would help elevate Ahblo to new heights. From an investor, I expect not only capital but a corporate background in building companies with fashion at the heart, sustainable fashion knowledge, and a strong track record in international fashion.

"By the end of 2025, I envision Ahblo as a leading name in sustainable luxury knitwear with a strong international presence. Five years from now, Ahblo aims to set industry standards for ethical fashion, with a loyal customer base valuing quality and sustainability."

RACHEL GREBLER QUESNE, AHBLO LUXURY KNITWEAR

@AHBLO_KNITWEAR