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Straw the Line
When Covid-19 hit New Zealand and the March lockdown was announced, Straw the Line’s retailers closed their doors, leaving the business with no sales.
The demand for reusable straws over the past few years has grown at an unprecedented rate, with consumers realising the weight small actions like refusing single-use straws can have on overall levels of waste. Straw the Line NZ, a business run by Auckland mums Camilla and Charlotte, brings 100% natural, biodegradable, and edible ‘Raw Straws’ to New Zealand.
While it takes 200 years for a plastic straw to decompose, Straw the Line’s Raw Straws made from rice flour and tapioca starch decompose entirely within 100 days. Not only does this mean there is less waste – it also means decreased harm to animals and marine life.
The hospitality industry is Straw the Line’s predominant customer, selling their Raw Straws in everything from smoothies to cocktails. When Covid-19 hit New Zealand and the March lockdown was announced, Straw the Line’s retailers closed their doors, leaving the business with no sales. Straw the Line quickly pivoted their strategy to start selling direct to consumers, temporarily helping to bridge the gap in their income. They have since started selling their Edible Raw Straws to selected retail stores which they have been thrilled to hear are flying off the shelves.
As a 100% New Zealand owned and operated business, Straw the Line’s vision is to contribute to a healthier environment. Juggling parenthood with running a small business has presented challenges, but Camilla and Charlotte are driven by their goal of creating a more sustainable Aotearoa for future generations.
Since receiving a Toyota Highlander through Toyota’s Small Business Driver initiative, Straw the Line has been able to access an increased number of events and exhibitions to reach their new consumer market, contributing to their overall sales. You might also catch them in their Highlander delivering Raw Straws to cafes, bars, restaurants, hotels and retail stores.
If you’re keen to try Straw the Line’s sustainable range of Raw Straws, shop their full range here , or follow them via their Instagram account @strawthelinenz