With Hydration the key focus of the Trending Today area of Chicago’s IH+HS earlier this week (March 2-5), re-usable straws were a booming subcategory at the international trade show.
In addition to the UK, cities and institutions across the US are joining the worldwide movement against the use of plastic straws. IH+HS exhibitors including GoSili recognised the rising demand for functional and aesthetic reusable options.
GoSili’s Guiliana Schwab told HousewaresNew.net: “We’ve reacted to demands for longer straws and fatter straws for smoothies, as well as straws contained in a tin so they are easy to carry around. Our straws are microwave and dishwasher safe, and the right balance of rigid and flexible.”
Hip’s new Clean Straw received a phenomenal reaction from UK buyers, confirms Vivienne Cudahy, md of Auteur (distributor for Hip). The innovative silicone straw can be unrolled for easy cleaning. Continuing Hip’s hydration and ‘on the go’ themes, the brand also showcased a prototype for a new roll-up water bottle, along with a reusable silicone lunch or grocery bag. The brand’s stand itself had eco-credentials as it was made entirely of recyclable cardboard.
Meanwhile, Asobu (by Adnart) intergrates its stainless steel straws with a band of flexible silicone, making the straw bendable for “360 access to your favourite beverage,” and safer than a fully metal straw (should the straw be knocked into the mouth), explained Asobu’s Steven Ross. The company is also donating 10% of profits from the sales of its Reusable Straws to WWF to help protect aquatic life.
In Inventors’ Corner, D’Vine showed its innovative Wine Aerator straws. Founder Scott Scardino explained: “These straws were created for wine drinkers who do not want to stain their teeth and meet the need for a reusable alternatives to plastic as well as providing an enhanced drinking experience as the design aerates the wine.” Scott has now created various designs (due to consumer feedback). “Our customers are often young professional women who enjoy going out to restaurants and bars and want to take an accessory that looks good.”
Party supplies company, Sugar Plum Party showcased its ranges of disposable paper straws with a difference. “Our durable straws are made from five layers and so last two to three hours in a drink,” said Daniel Seehoff, ceo.
Meanwhile, new brand Smidge from the UK (Horwood) reported a warm reception to its range of sustainable products, including sets of reusable straws. “Our Natural Collection has been particularly well received with a lot of people looking at buying into the whole category,” stated Smidge’s Rob Jones.
* Next year, the IH+HS will have its new name: The Inspired Home Show (March 14-17 2020). Visit housewares.org or TheInspiredHomeShow.com
Top: GoSili’s Giuliana Schwab and Mariah Medina with the brand’s collection of silicone straws at Chicago’s IH+HS.
