In a recent interview with Neetu Bhasin from Makreo Research based in Mumbai, Ajay Somaiya, the founder of Quit Plastic, shared his journey and insights into the booming sustainable tableware market in India. Let’s dive into the highlights of their conversation and explore how Quit Plastic is making waves in the industry.
Neetu Bhasin: Ajay, it’s great to have you here. Can you start by telling us about your journey and what inspired you to start Quit Plastic?
Ajay Somaiya: Thank you, Neetu. My journey began with a simple yet profound vision: to make India a plastic-free nation. I was deeply concerned about the environmental hazards posed by plastic, and I wanted to introduce sustainable alternatives that could revolutionize the market. That’s how Quit Plastic was born. We focus on transforming sugarcane bagasse, the fibrous residue left after extracting juice from sugarcane, into a range of eco-friendly tableware.
Neetu Bhasin: That’s fascinating! Can you tell us more about sugarcane bagasse and why you chose it as the primary material for your products?
Ajay Somaiya: Absolutely. Sugarcane bagasse is an agro-waste product that we transform into various tableware items like bowls, plates, trays, takeaway containers, clamshell boxes, cups, glasses, lids, and cutlery. It’s a fantastic material because it’s both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. Our products cater to premium dine-in experiences as well as takeaway services for restaurants and cloud kitchens.
Neetu Bhasin: Quality and safety are crucial for any product. How does Quit Plastic ensure these aspects?
Ajay Somaiya: Quality and safety are at the core of our products. Our tableware is leak and spill-proof, free from BPA and carcinogenic chemicals, and microwave-safe. This ensures that consumers can use our products without any health concerns, making them a practical choice for everyday use.
Neetu Bhasin: Customization seems to be a big part of your offering. How does it benefit businesses?
Ajay Somaiya: We understand the importance of branding, so we offer customization options, including 4-color logo printing on our products. This allows businesses to maintain their brand identity while showcasing their commitment to sustainability. It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Neetu Bhasin: According to Makreo Research, the sustainable tableware market in India is growing rapidly. What are your thoughts on this trend?
Ajay Somaiya: The market is indeed experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer awareness and demand for eco-friendly products. The Indian tableware market is estimated to grow substantially in the coming years, with a notable shift towards sustainable options. This growth is fueled by the expansion of the hospitality sector and the increasing number of households opting for sustainable living.
Neetu Bhasin: Despite the growing demand, what challenges do you face in the market?
Ajay Somaiya: Competing against low-grade plastic disposables sold at lower prices is one of the significant hurdles. However, we’ve managed to carve out a niche by focusing on quality and sustainability. Our efforts to raise awareness about the environmental impact of plastic and the benefits of compostable alternatives have been instrumental in driving consumer preference towards sustainable products.
Neetu Bhasin: What does the future hold for Quit Plastic and the sustainable tableware market in India?
Ajay Somaiya: The future looks promising. With increasing consumer awareness and supportive government policies, the market is poised for substantial growth. Quit Plastic is well-positioned to lead this green revolution. Our commitment to innovation and sustainability will continue to drive our success and set new benchmarks in the industry.
Neetu Bhasin: Ajay, it’s been a pleasure talking to you. Any final thoughts you’d like to share?
Ajay Somaiya: Thank you, Neetu. Our work at Quit Plastic is more than just a business venture; it’s a movement towards a greener, cleaner India. By choosing sugarcane bagasse as an alternative to plastic, we’ve set a precedent for the industry, proving that eco-friendly solutions can be both practical and profitable. As we continue to grow, we hope to pave the way for a future where sustainability is the norm, not the exception. Join us in our quest for a plastic-free India. Embrace the change and be a part of the eco-friendly revolution in food packaging.
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