Founded in 2015 by Stephanie Korey and Jen Rubio, Away hit the luggage scene like a rolling suitcase on steroids. Known for its minimalist design, Instagrammable aesthetics and built-in USB chargers, Away transformed the mundane act of packing into a lifestyle statement. Its early days were marked by savvy marketing campaigns and influencer partnerships that made the brand synonymous with millennial wanderlust. However, the company’s journey hasn’t been all smooth sailing. In 2019, a Verge exposé on Away's toxic work culture, spearheaded by Korey's alleged authoritarian management style, shook its glossy veneer. The fallout led to Korey stepping down as CEO, only to return shortly after, further stirring the corporate pot. Valued at $1.4 billion during its 2019 funding round, Away has received accolades for disrupting the luggage market, bagging awards for innovation and design. As for executives, current CEO Stuart Haselden now navigates the company through post-pandemic travel trends. Despite its turbulent flight path, Away remains a high-flying name in travel gear, proving that even your suitcase can be part of your personal brand narrative.
