Founded in 2018 by Alex Nagel and Ryan Day, ANCORD Design Co is an industrial design studio that believes in intelligent design and meaningful solutions. Their journey began in Toronto, where a shared childhood obsession with engines brought them together in the Humber College automotive studio. But it wasn’t just cars that fueled their passion—it was the potential for design to solve real-world problems.
After years of honing their craft and exploring various design disciplines, Alex and Ryan found themselves inspired by the natural beauty of Vancouver Island. This newfound inspiration led to a shift in their focus, embracing a commitment to creating thoughtful, everyday products that not only solve business problems but also respect and protect the planet.
One of their standout initiatives is the Wetsuit Wrench, a tool designed to make wetsuit removal effortless. What makes this product truly special is its eco-friendly manufacturing process. ANCORD has partnered with the Ocean Legacy Foundation to source Legacy Plastic—a high-grade, 100% post-consumer processed plastic recovered from used marine gear, coastal shorelines, and our oceans. The vision is for this material to then be injection-moulded into the Wetsuit Wrenches right here in British Columbia.
Utilizing Legacy Plastic demonstrates ANCORD’s leadership in advancing the plastic circular economy and educating consumers about the impacts of plastics on our environment, oceans, and marine life. They prove that turning waste into functional, aesthetically pleasing products makes a tangible impact on both the environment and their community. Their work is a testament to the idea that thoughtful design can drive positive change, proving that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand.