In a bold move towards sustainability, Friendlier, a pioneering reusable packaging company, has expanded its operations to Guelph, Ontario. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the company's journey to revolutionize the packaging industry and promote eco-friendly practices across Canada.
Friendlier's story began in 2020 when co-founders Jacquie Hutchings and Kayli Dale were inspired by their experiences as exchange students in Sweden. The duo observed a stark contrast between the Swedish approach to food and drink consumption and the North American fast-paced, disposable culture. This realization sparked their mission to help Canadians make sustainable choices without compromising their lifestyle.
The company's recent grand opening on Clair Road West in Guelph celebrates its latest expansion. Friendlier has received substantial support from various government organizations, including FedDev Ontario, which has played a crucial role in funding the company's growth and job creation in the area. This backing has enabled Friendlier to establish facilities in Guelph and Ottawa, with plans to launch in Vancouver in the near future.
Friendlier's new Guelph location boasts state-of-the-art custom dishwashers, significantly increasing the company's capacity to clean and process reusable containers. This enhanced efficiency has allowed Friendlier to dramatically increase its output, meeting the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. The company's rapid growth is evident in its impressive statistics: last year, Friendlier's containers were used one million times, and they are well on track to double that figure in 2024.
Partnerships have been key to Friendlier's success. The company collaborates with numerous food service providers throughout Ontario and has forged a significant alliance with Compass Group Canada, which operates cafeterias in universities and corporate offices. Additionally, Friendlier works with local manufacturer Omnia Packaging to produce custom coffee cups, further strengthening its commitment to supporting local businesses and reducing transportation-related emissions.
Friendlier's impact on the environment is substantial and growing. The company's reusable containers have prevented over 312,000 kilograms of greenhouse gas emissions, diverted more than 100,000 kilograms of plastic waste from landfills, and saved over 14 million liters of water. These figures underscore the significant positive impact that reusable packaging can have on the environment.
The company's mission extends beyond merely providing reusable packaging. Friendlier aims to simplify the transition from single-use to reusable packaging for businesses, making it as seamless and affordable as possible. By offering solutions that allow businesses to easily divert their budgets from disposable to reusable options, Friendlier is paving the way for a more sustainable future in the packaging industry. With its ambitious goal of becoming North America's largest reusable packaging provider, Friendlier is poised to make a lasting impact on the way we think about and use packaging in our daily lives.
