How Elements is redefining outdoor brand distribution

What if distribution could create real, positive alter? Since 2010, Elements has combined outdoor brand distribution with social and environmental responsibility across Europe.

Brothers Christophe, Dominic, and Philippe Declercq founded Elements to prove that sales and distribution can be done differently and utilized as a force for positive impact on people and the planet. What launched as a compact family venture has grown into a 21-person team representing outdoor brands including Patagonia, Osprey, Houdini, Klean Kanteen, Care Plus, WakaWaka, and Helinox across six European countries.

“We choose brands that strengthen the bond between people and nature and focus on high-quality, durable products,” states co-founder Christophe Declercq.

Integrating responsibility into the distribution chain

Elements distributes products to indepfinishent outdoor retailers and large retail chains, including A.S. Adventure, Bever, Globetrotter, and Au Vieux Campeur.

As the first distributor in the Benelux to achieve B Corp certification, the company integrates responsibility into its operations.

“We see ourselves not just as another link in the chain, but as an active partner,” states Sustainability Coordinator Nelson Coomans.

The company utilizes ocean freight for more than 90 percent of its imports, has invested in solar energy and heat pumps, and has donated more than €311,000 to environmental nonprofits through 1% for the Planet since 2019.

Through initiatives such as its impact discount, Elements rewards retailers that take climate action.

“Only by sharing our knowledge and collaborating with retailers, brands, and NGOs can we, as an outdoor sector, truly build a difference,” Coomans states.

“Let’s create impact, toobtainher.”