Sagamore Ventures invests in Baltimore bag, tote maker

Under Armour founder Kevin Plank has invested in a Baltimore-based tote and duffel bag maker.

Plank’s Sagamore Ventures LLC has invested an undisclosed amount in Treason Toting Co., started in 2013 by Baltimore craftsmen Jason Bass and Aaron Jones. The maker of leather and canvas bags opened a shop earlier this month on Thames Street in Fells Point.

Sagamore, the venture capital subsidiary of Plank Industries, said it would provide resources for Treason Toting to make nearly all its products in Baltimore, increase speed of production and boost the global awareness of the brand.

“With this investment in Treason Toting Co., we are excited to raise the profile of a brand born right here in Baltimore,” said Tom Geddes, CEO of Plank Industries, in an announcement Wednesday. “We will help Treason Toting keep and grow its operations in Baltimore, creating many local jobs over time and inspiring other minority entrepreneurs. This is central to our mission.”

Bass and Jones, both from Baltimore, started the company four years after being introduced by friends.

Treason began selling its first product, weekender duffel bag “The Gordon,” in 2013 and targeted products to the “creative class.” Its offerings now range from a $60 dopp kit to a $250 backpack.

Sagamore’s financial backing will allow Treason to increase distribution and bring in house projects the company had outsourced.