Step into Style with Amboh Espadrilles: Handcrafted Elegance from Cambodia

Phnom Penh is home to a unique footwear brand blending French craftsmanship with Cambodian culture. Amboh Espadrilles, founded by Sébastien Gertgen in August 2015, is something you should know about when it comes to handmade artistry and ethical production! Clearly, Cambodia Lifestyle had to take a further look!

From Sales to Craftsmanship: The Birth of Amboh Espadrilles

Sébastien Gertgen, an MBA graduate from EDHEC Business School in Paris, began his professional journey in sales and management. His career path took a significant turn when he moved to Cambodia as the country director of Leboost. In August 2015, driven by a desire to create his product and work closely with Cambodians, Sébastien founded Amboh Espadrilles. “I wanted to switch my career from the service industry to the goods industry. I wanted to produce my own product to work closely with Cambodians and provide them with better working conditions,” he explains.

A Dream Realized: Building a Self-Sustaining Team

Operating since September 2015, Amboh Espadrilles has weathered various challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. For Sébastien, the journey has been about more than just making shoes. “The dream, for me, had been achieved,” he reflects. “Together, we have worked on our self-development. The team is now autonomous, able to solve working problems and work together. And I guess this is the reason why no one has ever left the boat.”

The Art of Handmade Espadrilles

What sets Amboh apart is the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each pair of espadrilles. “Amboh is a real handmade espadrille. Machines are unable to sew the fabric on the jute sole as this operation requires regularity and strength,” Sébastien explains. A hallmark of Amboh’s design is the use of krama, an iconic Cambodian fabric. “Krama is certainly the most iconic Cambodian product, and this is why we have decided to use it on all our models. It is our way to mix French skills and Cambodian culture, and it makes a beautiful blend.”

Fair Trade and Ethical Production

Amboh Espadrilles operates with a strong commitment to fair trade practices. “We choose to operate using fair trade practices and take care of those who make Amboh possible,” says Sébastien. The company ensures that its sewers work in good conditions, have health insurance, and earn wages above the factory average. Additionally, all fabric suppliers are Cambodian, and Amboh pays a fair price for their products.

Why Choose Amboh Espadrilles?

Amboh Espadrilles offers a unique and comfortable footwear option. With sizes ranging from 35 to 45, customers can rely on accurate sizing. “We have big sizes available and you can rely on our sizing,” Sébastien assures. Customers can choose from collections that change every six months or customize their own designs at the shop/workshop located on Street 21 in Phnom Penh.

Embracing the Cambodian Spirit

For Sébastien, Cambodia is a land of opportunity and innovation. “As an entrepreneur, Cambodia is the kind of country where you can set up a business in two days and try as many things as you want to succeed one day,” he shares. This entrepreneurial spirit, combined with the rich cultural heritage, makes Cambodia an ideal place for Amboh Espadrilles to thrive.

Visit Amboh Espadrilles

Discover the beauty and craftsmanship of Amboh Espadrilles at their shop in Phnom Penh:

Amboh Espadrilles

  • Address: 45, Street 21, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
  • Phone: 070572094
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday to Friday: 9am to 6pm
    • Saturday and Sunday: 2pm to 6pm

Step into Amboh Espadrilles and experience the perfect blend of French craftsmanship and Cambodian culture.

How can I find Amboh espadrille in Cambodia?

Contact: 070572094

Address: 45, street 21, Phnom Penh Cambodia

Opening Hours: 

9am to 6pm from Monday to Friday
2 to 6pm sat and sun

45, street 21, Phnom Penh Cambodia
+070572094

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Tom Starkey
Author: Tom Starkey

Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.