A Brief History of Best Made Co.

The Rise and Fall of a Beloved New York City Brand

If you lived in New York City during the early 2010s, you might remember the airy, well-lit store in Tribeca called Best Made Co. Inside, you’d find a curated selection of wonderful objects: pocket knives, enamel cookware, blankets, chore coats, and, proudly displayed on the wall, a colorful array of axes. It was a store that seemed to embody the dream of a perfect escape upstate, even if you never actually made it past midtown.

Founding and Early Success

Best Made Co. was founded in 2009 by designer Peter Buchanan-Smith, who envisioned the brand as the “next great American outfitter-slash-lifestyle brand.” The store quickly gained a loyal following, with customers drawn to its unique blend of high-quality products and charming atmosphere.

The Decline and Disappearance of Best Made Co.

However, like so many things in New York City, Best Made Co. was not immune to the city’s ever-changing landscape. The brand was sold off to various companies, including Bolt Threads and Duluth Trading Company, before eventually closing its brick-and-mortar location. Today, the brand exists in a diminished form, a shadow of its former self.

[Image: A black and white photo of a man in a workshop]

Peter Buchanan-Smith, the founder of Best Made Co., is pictured above. Despite the brand’s decline, Buchanan-Smith’s vision for a unique and high-quality lifestyle brand continues to inspire.

What Went Wrong?

So, what happened to Best Made Co.? Was it the changing tastes of consumers, the rise of online shopping, or something else entirely? While we may never know the exact answer, it’s clear that the brand’s decline was a result of a combination of factors.

A Legacy Lives On

Despite its decline, Best Made Co. left a lasting legacy in the world of outdoor and lifestyle brands. Its commitment to quality and unique products continues to inspire entrepreneurs and designers today. As we look back on the brand’s rise and fall, we’re reminded of the importance of staying true to one’s vision and the power of a well-crafted brand to capture the hearts of customers.