A Solution to a Disposable Industry
For most people, umbrellas are an afterthought—cheap, disposable, and often lost or broken after just a few uses. However, for Gilley’s founders, Reid Jacoby and Trib Gosain, this everyday accessory presented an opportunity for innovation. Recognizing the wastefulness of an industry dominated by low-quality products, they set out to challenge the status quo and create an umbrella designed to last, both in durability and sustainability.
Every year, over one billion umbrellas are discarded, filling landfills and contributing to a growing environmental crisis. With this in mind, Gilley was developed to break the cycle of waste by offering a high-quality, long-lasting alternative. Their mission was simple: build an umbrella that people would want to keep, much like a reusable water bottle—functional, stylish, and sustainable.
The Rise of Gilley: From Kickstarter to Global Acclaim
Gilley’s vision quickly resonated with consumers. After launching on Kickstarter in 2023, the company became one of the most successful campaigns in the platform’s history. Within months, Gilley umbrellas had reached 46 countries, gaining attention for their innovative engineering and sustainability-driven design. By 2024, Gilley had earned the prestigious European Product Design Award, solidifying its status as a leader in eco-conscious consumer products.
Breaking the Cycle of Disposable Consumption
Umbrellas have long been seen as temporary commodities. Consumers expect them to break, get lost, or simply stop working, leading to a cycle of continuous replacement. Gilley seeks to disrupt this mindset by offering an umbrella that is not only built to last but designed to stay with the user.
A key feature of Gilley’s innovation is its integrated, hard-shell watertight case. This case allows users to pack away the umbrella immediately after use without worrying about soaking other belongings. Additionally, the case serves as a secondary handle, enhancing portability and convenience. The compact design—smaller than a 500ml reusable water bottle—reduces the likelihood of misplacement, encouraging consumers to treat it as a long-term investment rather than a disposable item.
Engineered for Sustainability and Durability
The average lifespan of a traditional umbrella is a mere six months. Gilley, however, is engineered to defy this trend. Its reinforced fiberglass and aluminum frame can withstand winds up to 30 mph—far exceeding London’s average wind speeds. Unlike conventional umbrellas that buckle under pressure, Gilley’s robust structure ensures long-term reliability.
But strength is only part of the story. Gilley operates on the principle of “sustainability through durability.” By designing a product that eliminates the need for frequent replacements, the company reduces resource consumption and waste. Instead of plastic components that degrade over time, Gilley incorporates high-quality, infinitely recyclable stainless steel, further minimizing environmental impact.
A Certified Carbon-Neutral Commitment
Sustainability at Gilley extends beyond product design. The company is a certified carbon-neutral business, offsetting emissions from production to transportation. It has also introduced the Gilley Recycling Scheme, a circular system allowing customers to return their old umbrellas for proper disassembly and recycling. This initiative ensures that no Gilley umbrella ends up in a landfill.
Furthermore, the company is working towards B Corporation certification, reinforcing its dedication to responsible business practices and environmental stewardship.
Changing the Narrative on Everyday Items
Gilley’s success demonstrates that even the most overlooked everyday items can be reimagined for sustainability. By challenging traditional notions of convenience and disposability, the company is leading a movement toward thoughtful consumption.
As consumers increasingly demand durable, eco-friendly alternatives, Gilley is proving that sustainability and practicality can go hand in hand. The humble umbrella—once an emblem of disposable culture—is now a symbol of innovation, responsibility, and a future where everyday products are designed with the planet in mind.
