Single use plastic waste is a big environmental issue and Cupple was created as a means to help reduce how much plastic we throw away everyday. Amanda and Eve are cousins and the creators/co-founders of Cupple. They were already reducing their own plastic waste by carrying reusable cups and bottles when out and about. Cups and bottles are two of the most thrown away everyday items, so they wanted to combine the cup and bottle together.
Finding a manufacturer and design studio
It was vital to find a manufacturer with high standards in terms of business, working conditions, social and environmental awareness. They researched in China for manufacturers who were certified through Amfori BSCI and Sedex systems as almost all stainless-steel bottles are produced there, and UK production costs are high. The manufacturer chosen dealt with many well known brands and were familiar with compliance requirements of the UK, EU AND USA. Over several months working closely with a UK design studio, Aetha Design a final 3-D prototype was created. The manufacturer was then asked to hand build a steel prototype so it could be tested for its resilience and then its overall design be signed off.
How did Shippo assist with Cupple?
In order to start importing their product Amanda and Eve wanted to find a business with years of experience importing from China and one that had fantastic customer service. This was their first time importing so it was important to choose a safe and efficient business to assist them. They chose Shippo!
“From the beginning, Shippo were friendly, helpful and prompt in their responses to our enquiries. They were able to explain the whole process of importing, including procedures with HMRC, insurance, and delivery within the UK.”
How is the business doing and what are their plans for the future?
The Cupple website launched in July this year and was positively received. Amanda and Eve have kept on raising awareness for the environmental problems created by single use plastic and have been working alongside many online and in store retailers to ensure the Cupple reaches many people as possible.
“For the time-being, we are focusing on brand awareness and sales growth in the UK. We aim to start setting up sales in Europe later in the year and will then start to explore other markets such as the US, Asia, Japan, Australia and New Zealand early in 2022.”
They intend to use Shippo once again to import their shipments.
“Our Mission is to help reduce single use plastic waste. We are a small UK start up business with big ambition. We know that change starts from one person, one family, one small business, one retailer, one e-commerce site: this is what has got us through the inevitable challenges of setting up a new business and motivates us every day!”
If you’d like to discuss the Cupple products with the team, their contact is hello@cuppleup.com. More information can be found on their Instagram and Facebook pages.