Latvian Flag Ribbons Top Commodity Ahead of Independence Day
November is a month of celebrations in Latvia, with Lāčplēsis Day and the Day of the Proclamation of the Republic of Latvia falling on November 18th. For businesses that produce goods adorned with Latvian symbols, preparations for these festivities begin as early as August. This year, "Latvijas tekstils" has printed an impressive 100 kilometers of ribbon in the colors of the national flag, as reported by Latvian Radio on November 10th.
While the centenary of Latvia sparked the greatest interest in goods bearing Latvian symbols, every November sees an increase in sales of pins, tablecloths, and clothing featuring the country's iconic symbols of strength. These items are also popular gifts, with many being sent abroad.
Oskars Polmanis, the founder and CEO of Latvijas tekstils, shared insights into their business. "We are one of those companies that work closely with national, ethnographic heritage, aiming to modernize these patterns and adapt them to the requirements of modern technology."
The company's shop on Matīsa Street in Riga showcases a mere fraction of their extensive product line, which includes a staggering 10,000 items. When it comes to November sales, Polmanis revealed, "The most purchased item before November 11th and 18th is undoubtedly flag ribbons in various sizes and widths. However, the top-selling item is small flag pins. This year, we're producing large flags for cultural centers, flagpoles, street decorations, and more. The trend of buying handheld flags for parades has declined."
Latvijas tekstils has been in business for 15 years and employs a small team of 10 people. Their future plans include expanding into Estonia and eventually Scandinavia. Despite their name, which includes the word 'textile', the company primarily uses digital printing and has recently invested in direct-to-film (DTF) technology for 15,000, enabling them to print clothing as well.
Polmanis continued, "Digital technology allows us to create much more beautiful, interesting, and varied patterns on fabric than was possible a decade ago. However, the market is quite specific, narrow, and seasonal. We also produce other types of items, ensuring we can operate year-round, not just during November. On May 4th, we make purchases, albeit in smaller quantities, as we haven't yet mastered the art of celebrating all Latvian birthdays."
Another company, "Betolli" in Talsi, has been producing clothing and accessories with Latvian symbols for 13 years. With only 2 employees and their manager, Līga Krauze, the company has witnessed a surge in interest in products featuring the Latvian flag or characters.
Krauze explained, "Customers have diverse preferences, ranging from small pins to personalized towels with Latvian flag embroidery. We offer winter hats, kepons adorned with various sizes of Latvian flags, and, most notably, clothing decorated with symbols of strength in the spirit of Latvia, particularly during the Song Festival. Even attendees at the concerts show a strong interest in these items. We've also been partners with the Latvian army, manufacturing knee pads. I believe more people are joining the Youth Guard and the National Guard, and there's a growing desire for patriotism, making the Latvian flag patch a top-seller that consistently sells out."
"Latvijas pērles" is a chain of shops representing 340 small Latvian producers, and its owner, Elīna Bukša, shared exciting news. "As the national holidays approach, Latvians and visitors alike embrace national symbols like scarves, brooches, and tablecloths. We also offer printed dishes featuring folk songs and the Lielvārde belt motif, which are popular choices for table settings during national holidays. By supporting these Latvian producers, we're not just supporting local businesses but also fostering a happier, more joyful, and prosperous community."
When it comes to producing goods with Latvian symbols, coordination with state institutions is required for the coat of arms. Entrepreneurs must obtain approval from the State Heraldry Commission if they intend to distribute merchandise featuring the coat of arms as souvenirs.
