As a mission-driven outdoor gear brand, Cotopaxi is recognized for its commitment to sustainability, social impact and delivering exceptional customer experiences across multiple channels.

With a thriving D2C channel, 20 physical stores across the US and a growing wholesale and marketplace presence, Cotopaxi has positioned itself as a leader with their omnichannel, unified commerce approach. 

Facing the challenge of scaling efficiently while staying true to their core, Cotopaxi has embraced a gradual, relationship-first marketplace strategy — prioritizing partnerships with a deep understanding of their customer base.

At the 2025 Mirakl Summit NYC, Omni Talk Retail co-hosts Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga spoke with Cotopaxi co-founder and COO Stephan Jacob to discover how they are leveraging marketplaces to fuel growth and reach new audiences without compromising their values.

Key insights from the interview include:

• How Cotopaxi unifies D2C, retail, wholesale and marketplaces to meet customers wherever they are.

• What criteria Cotopaxi uses to evaluate new marketplace partners as a mission-driven brand.

• The importance of true partnerships with marketplaces that know their customer base.

• Advice for other value-led brands exploring marketplace expansion.

• Why Cotopaxi is betting on a gradual, partnership-first approach to sustainable growth.