Established 15 years ago, the Zuo brand has evolved into an upbeat and modern lifestyle brand. The overall aesthetic is pure in form and includes an eclectic mix of mid-century modern, contemporary, and industrial chic. We spoke with Luis Ruesga, the CEO and founder of Zuo to better understand the company’s approach to design and manufacturing for different mediums.
Let’s start out by learning a bit more about your company. What makes your brand and products unique?
We provide a modern, fresh, and contemporary alternative.
Do you have a favorite piece in your collection or a new item or collection coming that designers might not know about?
The Albany Day Bed.
Who or what inspires you most when conceiving of your designs?
We are inspired by clean modern lines for a simple and sophisticated lifestyle on a budget.
What is the process behind coming up with new designs and products?
We identify a need or a segment and then proceed with the desired retail price. The fun begins when the materials and size are picked.
What is your favorite part about the manufacturing industry?
We love following fashion trends. They changes every year which prompts us to also constantly change, otherwise, the products die.
Please speak to the custom nature of your lines.
We have domestic and overseas talent to complete items. Items may require minor changes of fabric or the manufacturing of a custom piece for a hotel or park.
Please give us an overview of the more personal side of your business, who’s behind it, how did it come to be, any interesting stories about the origin or the founders you can share?
The company was founded 15 years ago by two friends, Steve and Luis (myself). We met at another job and went out for drinks where we came with the idea to offer a new concept in the industry. That was the beginning of ZUO.
What is your favorite and least favorite part of the job?
My favorite part is interacting with customers and with people in general, My least favorite part of the job had to be dealing with returns.
Where do you see ZUO in 10 years?
We would like to definitely add two more warehouses to the mix in order to increase distribution and make it faster and more efficient. On a personal level, I see myself doing more of a sales management job and less of a CEO role. I love to travel and I love to interact with people and attend trade shows.
Follow ZUO on Instagram at: @zuomod.