Psyche Organic’s Innovative Approach to Olive Oil and Community Building

Date: March 17, 2023
Author: Olivia Roper-Caldbeck
Photography: Clement Mogensen

From NYC Arts Scene to Sustainable Olive Oil Entrepreneur

Theophilos, founder of Psyche Organic, transitioned from a 12-year career in independent art publishing in New York to launching an organic olive oil company based in Copenhagen. Inspired by sustainable farming practices and a desire to foster community, he relocated to Europe to immerse himself in the olive oil production process and build a brand centered on transparency, inclusivity, and wellness.

Sustainable & Organic Olive Oil Production

Psyche Organic collaborates closely with Greek farmers cultivating olive trees that are 50 to 100 years old, some even ancient. The olive oil is cold-pressed, harvested traditionally in November by hand-raking olives off trees onto tarps, then processed using organic, chemical-free methods. Theophilos is deeply involved, traveling annually during harvest season to oversee the process and maintain strong relationships with farmers, ensuring quality and sustainability.

Community-Centric Business Model in Copenhagen

Psyche Organic is much more than a product; it is a lifestyle and community hub. Operating from a flagship showroom and office in Copenhagen, the brand promotes inclusivity by bridging people across all races, genders, and backgrounds through olive oil education and cultural events. Even after a successful temporary café pop-up connected with Copenhagen’s food scene, community engagement continues through curated events and experiences.

Expansion and Unique Market Position

The brand is already present in key markets like New York (Scarr’s Pizza) and Los Angeles (Homesick Studios) and plans to expand throughout Scandinavia, Asia, and Northern Europe. Psyche Organic distinguishes itself with eco-friendly packaging unique in the industry and by applying fashion and design sensibilities to its branding, making olive oil accessible and fashionable.

Vision for Transparent Supply Chains and Sustainable Future

Driven by principles similar to those advocated by Patagonia’s Yvon Chouinard, Psyche Organic aims to transform the notoriously opaque olive oil industry by establishing a fully transparent supply chain with verifiable quality and authenticity. The long-term vision includes scaling the business while supporting communities financially and eventually retiring to build an off-grid farm and art residency, blending agriculture with creative culture.

Overcoming Challenges: Letting Go of the Past

Theophilos reflects candidly on personal challenges including the "ego death" from leaving behind his deep roots in New York’s creative scene. Embracing change and new identities have been crucial to his growth, allowing him to fully commit to Psyche Organic’s mission and future.

Conclusion

Psyche Organic exemplifies a fresh model of sustainable entrepreneurship, uniting ethical farming, artistic vision, and community-building. Its commitment to transparent organic olive oil production, inclusive marketing, and cross-cultural activations is reshaping perceptions of food authenticity in Europe and beyond.

For more insights on sustainable brands and innovations, subscribe to our newsletter.

Design Delight Studio curates high-impact, authoritative insights into sustainable and organic product trends, helping conscious consumers and innovative brands stay ahead in a fast-evolving green economy.